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Danny DeVito: The Real-Life Family Behind Hollywood's Favorite Dad

Alaina April 16, 2025

In the world of Hollywood, Danny DeVito is no stranger to playing the lovable dad on screen. But behind the cameras, this iconic actor has a real-life family that’s just as fascinating. Let’s take a closer look at Danny’s journey as a father to three wonderful children—Lucy DeVito, Grace DeVito, and Jake DeVito—with his former wife, Rhea Perlman. Their story is one of love, partnership, and resilience.

A Love Story That Began on Stage

It all started way back in 1971 when Danny and Rhea Perlman crossed paths in the most unexpected way. At the time, Rhea went to see a friend perform in the play The Shrinking Bride. She wasn’t planning to meet anyone special that day, but fate had other plans. As it turns out, Danny was also part of the production, and the two were introduced. From that moment, their romance blossomed quickly, proving that sometimes the best love stories begin with a simple introduction.

From Love to Living Together

Things moved fast for Danny and Rhea. Just two weeks after their first meeting, they decided to move in together. Can you believe that? Talk about diving headfirst into a relationship! They spent over a decade dating, building a solid foundation for their future. Finally, in 1982, they tied the knot, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.

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Building a Beautiful Family

The couple didn’t waste any time starting a family. In 1983, they welcomed their first child, Lucy DeVito. Two years later, in 1985, Grace DeVito joined the family, and in 1987, their son Jake DeVito completed their brood. Raising three kids wasn’t easy, but Danny and Rhea were committed to giving their children the best upbringing possible. For two decades, they worked together as a team, navigating the ups and downs of parenthood.

A Complex Journey: Love, Separation, and Reconciliation

As with any long-term relationship, Danny and Rhea faced their share of challenges. In 2012, they decided to go their separate ways. But love isn’t always straightforward, and sometimes it finds a way to bring people back together. The following year, in 2013, they reconciled, giving their marriage another shot. Unfortunately, in March 2017, they parted ways again, this time for good.

Despite their split, Danny and Rhea have maintained a respectful and cooperative relationship, especially when it comes to co-parenting their children. “You agree that you love each other and that you have a history together and then you carry on. Life is too short!” Rhea told Closer Weekly in April 2019. It’s clear that both of them prioritize their children’s well-being above all else.

Friends and Partners in Parenthood

Danny echoed Rhea’s sentiments in an interview with People in March 2019. “We’re friends. We’re happy. Everybody’s happy,” he said. Their ability to remain friends and work together as parents speaks volumes about their maturity and commitment to their family. It’s a testament to the fact that love doesn’t always look the same, but it can still be meaningful and impactful.

Watching the Next Generation Thrive

Now that Lucy, Grace, and Jake are all grown up, Danny and Rhea are thrilled to watch their children carve out their own paths in life. While Danny doesn’t talk much about his role as a father, it’s evident that he cherishes the bond he shares with his kids. In a 2012 interview with The Guardian, Danny opened up about his perspective on life. “My way of seeing [life] is that as long as you’re walking and talking, and you can do things like come to London, and get on stage with Richard Griffiths, and enjoy yourself, it’s all good,” he said. “I’ve got three great kids. Life is good.”

It’s heartwarming to see how Danny and Rhea have navigated the complexities of life, both together and apart, all while raising a family they can be proud of. Their story is a reminder that love, friendship, and family can endure even the toughest challenges.