Juliet Mills, a veteran actress, and her husband Maxwell Caulfield, a talented actor 18 years her junior, have been married for over four decades. Their love story is a testament to the power of true love, which knows no bounds of age or convention.
Mills, now 82, began her acting career as a child star, signing with Warner Brothers and making her film debut. She gained recognition for her roles in “Carry on Jack” (1964) and “Nurse on Wheels” (1963). Her breakthrough came in 1966 with the western film “The Rare Breed,” alongside James Stewart and Maureen O’Hara.
Mills’ career flourished, with notable roles in the TV series “Nanny and the Professor” (1970) and a Tony Award nomination at just 18. Her distinctive voice has made her a beloved figure, with fans often recognizing her and saying, “Hey, Nanny!”
It was during her acting career that Mills met her future husband, Maxwell Caulfield. Caulfield, who debuted in the film “Grease 2,” was a rising star when they met. They were brought together on stage for a U.S. tour of the play “The Elephant Man,” where they played the roles of Mrs. Kendal and John Merrick, respectively.
Mills has described their meeting as “love at first sight,” saying they were instantly attracted and felt a deep connection. Caulfield has also spoken about their strong mental bond, calling their love “full-blown” and “instantaneous.”
Despite their age difference, the couple married in 1980, with Caulfield just 21 years old. Many predicted their marriage would not last, but they have proven their detractors wrong.
Mills has said that they never worried about the age gap, as they lived in California, where the news didn’t attract much attention. Even her father, Sir John Mills, didn’t think it was an issue, saying, “It’s irrelevant… when you find someone you want to spend the rest of your life with, regardless of their color, age, or other characteristics.”
The couple’s marriage has been a long and happy one, with Caulfield even taking charge of their wedding celebrations. He organized a private ceremony at Mills’ Beverly Hills home, complete with fairy lights and archways.
Caulfield has credited Mills with keeping him young, and their love continues to inspire fans. In 2017, they attended a traditional carousel event, with Caulfield praising the performers and calling the evening “wonderful theater.”
Their enduring relationship is a testament to the power of true love, which can overcome even the most daunting challenges. Mills and Caulfield have proven that age is just a number, and that love can conquer all.
