Celebrities Who Kept Their Underground Same-Sex Marriages a Total Secret

The private lives of celebrities often remain a mystery until they decide to share their personal milestones with the world. Many famous individuals have managed to keep their same sex marriages completely underground to protect their intimacy from the media. These secret unions allow couples to focus on their commitment without the added pressure of public scrutiny or tabloid headlines. From surprise announcements on social media to revelations during interviews these stars eventually confirmed their status as married individuals. Each story highlights the importance of privacy and the desire to celebrate love away from the spotlight.

Ricky Martin

The pop icon Ricky Martin surprised the public when he announced that he was officially married to Jwan Yosef during a press event. He had kept the ceremony a complete secret for several months before deciding to share the update with his fans. The couple managed to handle all the legal requirements and vows in private to ensure their intimacy remained intact. Martin expressed that it felt amazing to finally be able to call his partner a husband after their quiet union. He also mentioned that a larger celebration would eventually take place to honor the special occasion with friends and family.

Matt Bomer

Matt Bomer married publicist Simon Halls in a small ceremony that took place in 2011. The actor did not reveal his marital status to the public for three years while he continued to star in ‘White Collar’. He eventually shared the news in a magazine interview where he thanked his husband for his support and love. Bomer explained that keeping the marriage quiet allowed the couple to focus on their children and their family life. The revelation was met with immense support from fans who appreciated the actor’s commitment to his privacy.

Jim Parsons

Jim Parsons wed his long term partner Todd Spiewak in a beautiful ceremony at the Rainbow Room in New York City. The star of ‘The Big Bang Theory’ had been in a relationship for fourteen years before they decided to officially marry. He shared photos of the event on social media after the wedding had already concluded. Parsons has often spoken about how much his relationship means to him and how the marriage felt like a natural progression of their bond. The couple enjoyed a quiet celebration away from the intense media attention that usually follows the actor.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster married photographer Alexandra Hedison in a private ceremony that caught the media off guard in 2014. The actress has always been notoriously private about her personal life and chose to keep the details of her nuptials completely confidential. A representative eventually confirmed the union after rumors began to circulate about the secret event. Foster and Hedison had been dating for about a year before they decided to formalize their commitment. The couple continues to maintain a low profile while attending industry events together on occasion.

Barry Manilow

Barry Manilow kept his marriage to his manager Garry Kief a secret for several decades to protect his career and personal life. The couple officially wed in a quiet ceremony at their home in Palm Springs during the year 2014. News of the nuptials did not break until a year later when close sources shared the information with the press. Manilow eventually spoke about the marriage and expressed his gratitude for the fans who supported his happiness. He explained that his relationship with Kief had been a cornerstone of his life since the late seventies.

Elliot Page

Elliot Page announced his marriage to dancer Emma Portner through a series of photos shared on social media in early 2018. The couple had managed to keep their wedding a secret from the public until they were ready to share the joy together. Page was starring in ‘The Umbrella Academy’ around the time the news of the union became a major topic of conversation. The two often posted supportive messages for one another while navigating their careers in the entertainment industry. They remained married for several years before eventually announcing their decision to separate.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes married her partner Alex Niedbalski in a private ceremony held in late 2008. The comedian did not publicly discuss the marriage until she came out during a rally for marriage equality. Sykes explained that she wanted to live her life authentically while still maintaining a level of privacy for her wife and family. The couple has since welcomed twins and continues to advocate for various social causes together. Their marriage remains a strong example of a successful partnership built away from the lens of celebrity gossip.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon and her partner Christine Marinoni legally married in the state of New York in 2012. The star of ‘Sex and the City’ had been engaged to Marinoni for three years while waiting for same sex marriage to become legal in their home state. They held a private ceremony that was kept away from the press until they were ready to release a single official photo. Nixon has been very open about her transition into political activism alongside her wife. The couple focuses much of their time on family life and supporting educational initiatives in their community.

David Hyde Pierce

David Hyde Pierce married his long term partner Brian Hargrove in a quiet ceremony in 2008. The actor known for his work on ‘Frasier’ had been in a relationship with the writer and producer for over twenty years before the wedding. He chose to share the news during an acceptance speech while being honored for his theatrical contributions. Pierce noted that the marriage was a significant personal milestone that they preferred to keep out of the headlines. The couple continues to work together on various creative projects in the world of television and theater.

RuPaul

The world famous drag icon RuPaul married his partner Georges LeBar in a secret ceremony in early 2017. The couple had been together for twenty three years before they decided to officially tie the knot on their anniversary. RuPaul revealed the news during a television interview and explained that they never cared for the traditional aspects of ceremony. He noted that the marriage was primarily for legal protections and to solidify their long term bond. They spend much of their time on a massive ranch in Wyoming away from the glamor of Hollywood.

Samira Wiley

Samira Wiley married writer Lauren Morelli in a colorful and private ceremony in Palm Springs in 2017. The two met on the set of ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and kept their burgeoning relationship relatively quiet at first. They announced their engagement with a joyful photo but kept the specific details of the wedding underground until after the event. Wiley and Morelli shared beautiful images of their celebration which featured confetti and custom white outfits. They have since welcomed a daughter and continue to collaborate on various artistic endeavors.

Tom Daley

Olympic diver Tom Daley married filmmaker Dustin Lance Black in a stunning ceremony at Bovey Castle in 2017. The couple had been very public about their engagement but kept the exact date and logistics of the wedding away from the press. They shared a video of their special day on social media to give fans a glimpse into the emotional event. Daley and Black have been vocal advocates for lgbtq rights and often share updates about their life as parents. Their marriage was a major event in the sports world that celebrated visibility and love.

Billy Porter

Billy Porter married his partner Adam Smith in a small and intimate ceremony that took place in early 2017. The star of ‘Pose’ had been in a relationship with Smith for many years before they decided to wed just days before the presidential inauguration. They chose a private setting to exchange their vows and focus on their personal connection. Porter has since become a fashion icon and an award winning performer while often crediting his husband for his stability. The couple continues to support one another at major industry events and award shows.

George Takei

George Takei married his partner Brad Altman in a high profile but personally intimate ceremony in 2008. The ‘Star Trek’ actor was one of the first couples to receive a marriage license in West Hollywood after the legal change. They had been together for over two decades before they were finally able to legally wed. Takei has often spoken about the importance of the marriage in providing security and recognition for their relationship. The couple remains active in the public eye while working on various human rights projects.

Jesse Tyler Ferguson

Jesse Tyler Ferguson married his partner Justin Mikita in a New York City ceremony officiated by Tony Kushner in 2013. The ‘Modern Family’ star kept the wedding details private to ensure the event remained focused on his friends and family. They used their wedding as an opportunity to raise money for marriage equality through their charity foundation. Ferguson and Mikita have since expanded their family and often share photos of their life together. Their partnership is frequently highlighted as a positive representation of modern marriage in the media.

Nate Berkus

Nate Berkus married fellow designer Jeremiah Brent in a historic ceremony at the New York Public Library in 2014. They were the first same sex couple to marry in that iconic venue and chose to keep the planning stages very quiet. The wedding featured a sophisticated aesthetic that reflected their shared passion for interior design. Berkus and Brent have since starred in their own television shows and raised two children together. They often speak about the importance of building a home and a life centered on family values.

Elton John

Elton John and David Furnish entered a civil partnership in 2005 on the first day such unions became legal in the United Kingdom. They later converted their partnership into a formal marriage in 2014 after the law was updated to include same sex couples. The initial ceremony was a massive media event but the formal marriage was a much more private affair at their estate. John has frequently stated that being able to legally marry Furnish was a vital step for their family. They have two sons and continue to lead global philanthropic efforts through their foundation.

Neil Patrick Harris

Neil Patrick Harris married David Burtka in a stunning and secret ceremony in Italy in 2014. The couple had been engaged for several years but kept the wedding date a complete secret from the general public. The event featured a performance by Elton John and was attended by a small group of close friends and relatives. Harris and Burtka often share glimpses of their family life and their elaborate holiday celebrations with their twins. Their marriage is often cited as one of the most stable and admired partnerships in the entertainment industry.

Cheyenne Jackson

Cheyenne Jackson married actor Jason Landau in a private outdoor ceremony in 2014. The actor known for his roles in ‘American Horror Story’ kept the wedding details away from the press to maintain a personal atmosphere. They exchanged vows in front of a small group of friends and family at a private estate in Encino. Jackson has spoken about how his marriage to Landau provided him with a new sense of purpose and happiness. The couple has since welcomed twins and continues to balance their careers with their roles as parents.

Victor Garber

Victor Garber officially married his long term partner Rainer Andreesen in a quiet ceremony in Canada in 2015. The ‘Alias’ star had been in a relationship with the artist and model for sixteen years before they decided to wed. They announced the news through an Instagram post that showed the couple looking happy after the ceremony. Garber has always preferred to keep his private life away from the spotlight while maintaining a prolific career in film and television. The couple resides in New York City and frequently attends art and theater events together.

Jonathan Bennett

Jonathan Bennett married television host Jaymes Vaughan in a beautiful ceremony in Mexico in early 2022. The ‘Mean Girls’ star chose a destination wedding that was kept private until the official photos were released to a magazine. They incorporated many personal touches into the ceremony including custom rings and a unique floral arrangement. Bennett expressed that the wedding was a dream come true and a celebration of their unique bond. The couple continues to work on various media projects while advocating for inclusive travel experiences.

Ben Platt

Ben Platt and Noah Galvin celebrated their union with a series of events that culminated in a private wedding ceremony in 2024. The two actors both starred in the title role of ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ and developed a close bond over several years. They kept the specifics of their wedding underground to ensure a meaningful experience for their guests and themselves. Platt and Galvin have often performed together and shared their mutual support for each other’s theatrical careers. Their marriage marks a new chapter for the talented pair as they continue to work in Hollywood and on Broadway.

Beanie Feldstein

Beanie Feldstein married producer Bonnie Chance Roberts in a summer wedding that took place in upstate New York in 2023. The star of ‘Booksmart’ described the event as a magical experience that felt like a summer camp for her friends and family. They kept the planning and the date of the wedding away from the public eye until the celebration was over. Feldstein and Roberts met on a film set and have been inseparable ever since they began dating. The couple shared photos of their special day which featured coordinated outfits and a joyful atmosphere.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin married her partner Jane Wagner in a private ceremony on New Year’s Eve in 2013. The two had been together for forty two years before they decided to legally finalize their union. Tomlin and Wagner have been creative partners for decades with Wagner writing many of Tomlin’s most famous characters. They chose a very quiet setting for their wedding and did not make a large public announcement at the time. Their enduring partnership is considered one of the most successful and long lasting in the history of show business.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch married psychologist Lara Embry in a small ceremony at an inn in Sunderland Massachusetts in 2010. The ‘Glee’ actress kept the event very intimate with only close friends and family members in attendance. They chose a location that offered privacy and a scenic backdrop for their exchange of vows. Lynch has often spoken about her admiration for Embry and the importance of their connection during their time together. Although they eventually divorced the marriage remains a significant part of Lynch’s personal history.

Sean Hayes

Sean Hayes married his partner Scott Icenogle in a secret ceremony that took place in late 2014. The ‘Will and Grace’ star had been in a relationship with the music producer for eight years before they wed. He confirmed the marriage through a Facebook post that featured a photo of the couple during their quiet celebration. Hayes explained that they wanted to keep the event small and personal to honor their commitment to each other. The couple often produces content together and shares funny videos of their life at home.

Alan Cumming

Alan Cumming entered a civil partnership with Grant Shaffer in 2007 and officially married him in New York in 2012. The actor known for his diverse roles in film and theater celebrated his union with a joyful party for friends. He has been a strong advocate for marriage equality and often speaks about the importance of legal recognition for same sex couples. Cumming and Shaffer live in New York City and are frequently seen at cultural events and benefits. Their marriage is characterized by their shared love for the arts and their commitment to social activism.

Bryan Batt

Bryan Batt married his long term partner Tom Cianfichi in a private ceremony in New Orleans in 2014. The ‘Mad Men’ actor had been with his partner for twenty five years before they decided to officially marry. They held a beautiful ceremony that reflected their deep roots in the city and their love for its culture. Batt and Cianfichi own a home decor boutique together and are active members of the local community. Their wedding was a long awaited celebration for their family and the many friends they have made over the decades.

Alec Mapa

Alec Mapa married his partner Jamison Hebert in a quiet ceremony in 2008 shortly after same sex marriage became legal in California. The comedian and actor chose to keep the event private to focus on the emotional significance of the day. They have since adopted a son and have been very open about their experiences with the foster care system. Mapa often incorporates stories about his husband and their family life into his stand up comedy routines. The couple continues to advocate for adoption and foster care visibility within the lgbtq community.

Michael Arden

Michael Arden married fellow actor Andy Mientus in a beautiful ceremony at a manor in England in 2016. The two performers met while working in the theater and have often appeared in the same productions. They kept the details of their wedding underground to ensure a private and romantic atmosphere for their celebration. Arden is a successful director and actor while Mientus is known for his work on television and the stage. Their marriage is a testament to their shared passion for storytelling and the performing arts.

Jonathan Knight

Jonathan Knight of New Kids on the Block married his partner Harley Rodriguez in a secret ceremony that was revealed in 2022. The singer had been in a relationship with Rodriguez for many years and they even appeared together on a reality competition show. Knight confirmed the marriage during an interview where he referred to Rodriguez as his husband for the first time. The couple prefers to keep a low profile while living on their farm and working on renovation projects. Their quiet union was a happy surprise for fans who have followed Knight’s career for decades.

Lance Bass

Lance Bass married Michael Turchin in a televised but privately planned ceremony in late 2014. While the wedding eventually aired as a special the couple kept the actual planning and many personal details underground until the event. Bass was the first member of a major boy band to have a same sex wedding that was widely publicized. The couple has since welcomed twins through surrogacy and often shares updates about their parenting journey. Their marriage continues to be a prominent example of visibility for same sex families in the entertainment industry.

Portia de Rossi

Portia de Rossi married Ellen DeGeneres in an intimate ceremony at their home in Los Angeles in 2008. The wedding was held shortly after the California Supreme Court overturned the ban on same sex marriage. They kept the guest list very small to include only their closest family members and friends. De Rossi and DeGeneres have become one of the most famous couples in the world while consistently supporting each other’s careers. Their marriage is often highlighted for its longevity and the mutual respect they show for one another.

Tig Notaro

Tig Notaro married actress Stephanie Allynne in a private ceremony in her hometown of Pass Christian Mississippi in 2015. The comedian chose to have the wedding in a location that held personal significance for her and her family. They kept the event away from the cameras to enjoy a quiet celebration with their loved ones. Notaro and Allynne have since welcomed twin sons and often work together on various film and television projects. Their relationship has been a central theme in several of Notaro’s acclaimed documentaries and comedy specials.

BD Wong

BD Wong married Richert Schnorr in a stunning ceremony in Brooklyn in 2018. The actor known for his roles in ‘Jurassic Park’ and ‘Law and Order’ kept the wedding planning very private. The event featured a beautiful view of the skyline and was attended by many of Wong’s colleagues from the theater world. Wong and Schnorr often share photos of their travels and their life together in New York City. Their marriage is a celebration of their shared interests and their commitment to a life of creativity.

Denis O’Hare

Denis O’Hare married his partner Hugo Redwood in a quiet ceremony in New York City in 2011. The ‘American Horror Story’ actor announced the union on social media shortly after the marriage equality act passed in the state. They have since adopted a son and are very active in promoting adoption for same sex couples. O’Hare and Redwood maintain a relatively private life while splitting their time between the United States and Europe. Their marriage is built on a foundation of shared values and a commitment to their family.

Michael Urie

Michael Urie married his long term partner Ryan Spahn in a private ceremony that was not widely publicized at the time. The ‘Ugly Betty’ star has been in a relationship with the actor and writer for many years. They often collaborate on theatrical projects and have appeared in several films together. Urie and Spahn prefer to keep the focus on their work while occasionally attending industry events as a couple. Their partnership is well respected in the New York theater community where they are both very active.

Cherry Jones

Cherry Jones married filmmaker Sophie Huber in a very private ceremony in 2015. The Tony Award winning actress has always been discreet about her personal life and chose a quiet setting for her wedding. Huber is a documentary filmmaker and the two have supported each other’s artistic pursuits for many years. Jones has spoken briefly about the happiness she has found in her marriage while maintaining her professional focus. The couple lives a quiet life away from the typical Hollywood social scene.

Sara Gilbert

Sara Gilbert married songwriter and producer Linda Perry in a private ceremony in early 2014. The ‘Roseanne’ actress had announced her engagement on her talk show but kept the wedding date a secret from the press. The event was an intimate gathering of friends and family that focused on their personal connection. Gilbert and Perry welcomed a son together before eventually deciding to end their marriage several years later. During their time together they were frequent collaborators on various musical and television projects.

Beth Ditto

Beth Ditto of the band Gossip married her partner Kristin Ogata in a beautiful ceremony in Hawaii in 2013. The singer chose a traditional setting for the event but kept the specific logistics underground to ensure privacy. They had been friends for many years before their relationship turned romantic and led to marriage. Ditto has always been a bold advocate for body positivity and lgbtq visibility in the music industry. The couple celebrated their union with a joyful event that was later shared through a few select photographs.

Colton Haynes

Colton Haynes married celebrity florist Jeff Leatham in a lavish but privately organized ceremony in 2017. The wedding was officiated by Kris Jenner and featured an incredible floral display that was kept secret until the event. Haynes chose to share the news with his fans through social media after the ceremony was completed. The couple faced various public challenges and eventually decided to part ways after a short marriage. Despite the outcome the wedding remains a memorable event for its high fashion and celebrity attendance.

Brandi Carlile

Brandi Carlile married Catherine Shepherd in a private ceremony in Massachusetts in 2012. The singer songwriter met Shepherd through her humanitarian work and the two quickly formed a deep bond. They have two daughters and often share their experiences of motherhood and life on the road. Carlile has credited her wife for being a major influence on her music and her career success. Their marriage is a central part of Carlile’s life and is frequently referenced in her heartfelt lyrics.

Greg Rikaart

Greg Rikaart married Robert Sudduth in a beautiful beach ceremony in 2015. The ‘Young and the Restless’ star chose a private location to exchange vows with his long term partner. They announced the news with a single photo of the couple on the beach which was met with great support from fans. Rikaart and Sudduth have since become parents and often share updates about their son on social media. Their marriage is an example of a successful partnership within the daytime television world.

Jim Nabors

Jim Nabors married his partner Stan Cadwallader in a private ceremony in Seattle in early 2013. The ‘Gomer Pyle’ star had been in a relationship with Cadwallader for thirty eight years before they decided to marry. They traveled to Washington state shortly after same sex marriage became legal there to finalize their union. Nabors chose to keep the event very quiet and only shared the news with the public later. The couple remained together until Nabors passed away in 2017.

Thomas Roberts

Thomas Roberts married Patrick Abner in a sophisticated ceremony at a hotel in New York City in 2012. The news anchor was one of the first prominent television journalists to legally marry a same sex partner. They kept the planning process private to avoid distractions from Roberts’ professional responsibilities. The couple has been active in supporting various human rights organizations and often attends high profile events together. Their marriage is a strong example of visibility in the world of broadcast journalism.

John Barrowman

John Barrowman married Scott Gill in a private ceremony in California in 2013. The ‘Doctor Who’ star had previously entered a civil partnership with Gill in the United Kingdom in 2006. They decided to marry legally in the United States as soon as the law allowed it during a trip to the west coast. Barrowman and Gill have been together for over thirty years and often share their adventures with fans. Their relationship is characterized by their shared humor and their support for each other’s careers.

Stephen Fry

Stephen Fry married Elliott Spencer in a quiet ceremony at a registry office in Norfolk in early 2015. The acclaimed actor and writer announced the news on social media with a picture of the couple signing the marriage register. They kept the wedding date a secret to avoid a media circus and enjoy a private celebration. Fry has often spoken about the joy and stability that Spencer has brought into his life since they met. The couple continues to work on various creative and philanthropic projects together while living in the United Kingdom.

Tell us which of these secret celebrity weddings surprised you the most by sharing your thoughts in the comments.