Robert Wagner is celebrating a milestone for his longtime wife, actress Jill St. John. On her 85th birthday, the 95-year-old actor shared heartfelt words that highlighted just how much she means to him after decades together. The tribute was a touching reminder of the couple’s enduring bond, which has carried them through both joy and tragedy.
In his message, Wagner described Jill’s “laughter, love, and sparkle” as the light of his life. The birthday wish was paired with photos of the two together, giving fans a glimpse into their warmth and happiness as a couple. Admirers quickly joined in the celebration, leaving messages that praised their love story and sent warm wishes to the actress on her special day.
A Love Story That Stood The Test Of Time
Robert Wagner and Jill St. John’s relationship blossomed after years of knowing each other. The two first met in the 1950s as young actors under contract with FOX Studios and later shared the screen in How I Spent My Summer Vacation. Yet, their romance didn’t begin until decades later, when they reconnected in 1982. By that time, both had already lived through multiple marriages, but their meeting marked the beginning of something lasting.
In 1990, Wagner and St. John married, beginning a union that has now spanned 35 years. Their love has been described by close friends as both genuine and healing, with St. John standing by Wagner’s side through personal trials. Fans often point to their long-lasting relationship as an inspiring Hollywood love story, especially given the challenges each had faced in the past.
Healing After Tragedy
Before his relationship with Jill St. John, Wagner experienced heartbreak with the death of his former wife, actress Natalie Wood, in 1981. Her tragic drowning left the actor devastated, and he suddenly found himself caring not only for their daughter, Courtney, but also serving as guardian to Natasha Gregson Wagner, Wood’s daughter from her previous marriage. It was during this difficult chapter that Jill entered his life.
According to Parade, friends recalled how St. John’s presence helped Wagner move forward while offering a renewed sense of happiness. She became a steady partner and companion, admired not only for her Hollywood career — including her memorable turn as Tiffany Case in Diamonds Are Forever — but also for the joy she brought into Wagner’s family life. The couple has remained inseparable ever since, celebrating life’s milestones together.