Holland Taylor at 80: Unraveling the Secrets Behind Her 8-Year Relationship with Sarah Paulson, 48

Holland Taylor is like a dazzling comet in the entertainment galaxy, leaving a trail of wit and talent wherever she goes. She's the kind of actress who doesn't just steal scenes; she practically kidnaps them, leaving audiences in stitches or on the edge of their seats. Whether Taylor is gracing the stage or lighting up the screen, she brings a magnetic energy that one can only describe as the lovechild of charm and pure, unadulterated talent.

Off-screen, Taylor is a force of nature. She's the kind of person you want at your dinner party, regaling guests with stories that make you laugh, cry, and question if you've been living life to the fullest. Because she definitely has. And ever since she’s dating Sarah Paulson, she’s been glowing.

In the realm of showbiz, it's quite common to witness older men dating significantly younger women. However, the reverse scenario, where older women date much younger men, is relatively uncommon. This rarity has made the union of Holland Taylor and Sarah Paulson a subject of widespread attention since they first became a couple in 2015.

A substantial 32-year age difference exists between the two accomplished actors, both integral figures in Ryan Murphy's expansive creative universe, showcased in productions like American Horror Story, Hollywood, and Ratched. Despite the public scrutiny accompanying their relationship, Taylor and Paulson have actively worked to challenge the notion that age is a significant factor.

The charismatic pair has openly discussed the intricacies of their unconventional romance, debunking the sensationalism often fueled by tabloids. Recently, Holland Taylor has divulged some of the secrets contributing to the longevity of their relationship. Let's delve into the timeline of their connection and explore the elements that continue to fortify their bond day by day.

How Holland Taylor and Sarah Paulson met

When Holland Taylor and Sarah Paulson initially crossed paths a decade before their romantic involvement, it's safe to say that there were no immediate sparks. The introduction occurred at a dinner party in 2005, as Taylor revealed to People via Daily Mail, saying, "I already knew a lot about her because I'd seen her in a bunch of things.“

Their journey to romance couldn’t commence then and there, since they were both involved in a relationship. After this unremarkable first encounter, nearly a decade passed before they crossed paths again while collaborating on a public service announcement at fellow actor Martha Plimpton's home for a charity organization.

During an appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen in 2019, Paulson shared the next chapter of their connection: "We sort of breezed by one another and started following each other on Twitter." Responding to Billy Eichner's quip about Taylor sliding into her DMs, Paulson clarified that it was actually her who initiated the digital conversation.

According to Taylor, recounting the story to People in 2017, Paulson reached out after seeing a tweet and expressed concern, saying, "How are you? What's happening?" Their online interaction eventually led to an in-person meeting, with Taylor acknowledging her learning curve in navigating social media.

Sarah Paulson was warned about going public with the relationship

Initially, the public not only expressed surprise at Sarah Paulson and Holland Taylor's romance, but the Game Change star revealed that even some individuals within her inner circle were taken aback when they first learned about it. In 2017, Paulson disclosed that people had cautioned her against making the relationship public due to concerns about potential harm to her career.

Although such considerations had never crossed Paulson's mind initially, the ensuing controversy prompted her to entertain doubts. By the time she received an Emmy Award for her role in American Crime Story: The People vs. O.J. Simpson, she found herself contemplating whether to express gratitude to the love of her life. Reflecting on the moment, she shared, "It occurred to me, 'should I not do that?' And then I thought, 'why would I not?'" In the end, Paulson chose to disregard caution and declared her love for Taylor to the world during her acceptance speech.

In a 2016 interview with The New York Times, Paulson addressed the 32-year age gap with Taylor, asserting that it served as more of an asset than a hindrance. She explained, "There's a poignancy to being with someone older. I think there's a greater appreciation of time and what you have together and what's important, and it can make the little things seem very small. It puts a kind of sharp light mixed with a sort of diffused light on something."

Holland Taylor reveals the secrets to her long lasting relationship

It’s been 8 years and things are going great. According to Taylor, one of the secrets is that they’re both okay with spending some time apart and let each other be.

“We do some things separately so everyone gets to be true to what they believe. She’s much more social, and I like a little bit of alone time, so I have that. She spends some time with friends and not with me, so it’s a good balance.”

Holland Taylor

The saying "absence makes the heart grow fonder" seems to hold true for Sarah Paulson and Holland Taylor. The couple doesn't fit the mold of those who feel the need to be together every moment of the day. The actress explained that, despite spending more time together than apart, they maintain independence.

Paulson disclosed that both she and Taylor have their own separate houses, and the decision to capitalize on this arrangement was made during the pandemic: With a touch of humor she playfully commented on their reunions: "All of a sudden, we were like, 'Hey! You're here! What are you doing here? Get outta here!' It's been good."

Their second secret is that they’re not afraid of public displays of affection. The most prominent same-sex couple with an age gap in Hollywood has consistently embraced public displays of affection. Whenever they grace the red carpet together, the duo ensures they are linked arm in arm. Particularly, Paulson can't resist expressing her admiration for her partner on various social media platforms.

Holland Taylor used to be affected by press intrusion, but not anymore

Before entering a relationship with Sarah Paulson, Holland Taylor maintained a notably private stance regarding her romantic life. Her public acknowledgment of being in a relationship with a woman came at the age of 72 during a 2015 interview on the Death, Sex and Money podcast. When questioned about the possibility of marriage, the Legally Blonde star confirmed her relationship but chose not to disclose her partner's identity, in line with her discrete nature.

The mystery was later unveiled, revealing Sarah Paulson as the significant other -- a younger actor more inclined to openly discuss her romantic connections. In 2017, Taylor confessed that adapting to the shift in public attention from her career to her personal life took some time.

Reflecting on the contrast in generational attitudes, Taylor remarked, "I'm from an older generation, and for me, it's quite surprising how people talk about personal things of any kind in the press. It's not natural to me. That doesn't mean it's not good; it's just taken some adjusting. And Sarah, of course, is from a different generation; she's very much of today." Fortunately, Taylor has acclimated to the change.

Love can thrive regardless of age

Despite societal norms and potential challenges, their relationship demonstrates that love can thrive regardless of age, encouraging others to prioritize genuine connections over societal expectations.

In various interviews, Sarah Paulson addresses the public's fascination with her relationship with Holland Taylor, acknowledging the unconventional nature of their romance. While she doesn't comprehend the intense interest, Paulson sees a positive aspect to it. She hopes that their atypical love story can provide comfort and inspiration to those in unconventional relationships who may fear judgment. Paulson emphasizes living authentically and openly, expressing that her unconventional choices are her own business. She recognizes the potential for promoting understanding and acceptance by "normalizing" relationships like hers. Despite the complexities and potential for negativity, Paulson sees their relationship as a symbol of hope and courage, encouraging others to embrace their authentic selves.