Olivia Colman on Marriage Secrets and Non-Binary Identity

Olivia Colman has revealed some of the keys to her 25-year marriage to Ed Sinclair, emphasizing kindness and careful communication. In a recent interview while promoting her new film, "Wicker," Colman stated that she and her husband, a screenwriter and producer, avoid arguments because they are "not conflict people."

Colman shared advice for maintaining a long-term relationship, suggesting, "Be kind to each other." She also recalled wisdom from a couple married for 50 years: "Sometimes it's the things you don't say." Colman elaborated that while direct communication is important, finding a "nice gentle time" to discuss issues prevents conflict. She noted that for her, arguments in the heat of the moment do not work.

Colman and Sinclair met in the 1990s while attending school in Cambridge and fell in love during a production for the Cambridge Footlights. Colman humorously recalled dedicating six weeks to memorizing a song Ed liked and learning his timetable, telling Bustle, "I sort of stalked him." She added, "I remind him every day that he is a very lucky man."

Sinclair, who initially studied law, transitioned to the arts and attended the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. He has worked as an actor in minor roles and later as a screenwriter and film producer, penning the 2021 Sky drama series "Landscapers" and producing "The Roses," both starring Colman.

The couple have three children: Finn, born in 2005; Hall, born in 2007; and their daughter, born in 2015.

Colman also touched upon her personal identity, previously stating that she has "always felt sort of nonbinary." She explained that she has never felt entirely comfortable with traditional gender roles, including within her own marriage. "I've always described myself to my husband as a gay man," she said, adding that Sinclair understands and that this allows her to feel "at home and at ease."

She elaborated that men she knows and loves are often in touch with various sides of themselves and that she and her husband take turns being the "strong one" or the one needing gentleness. Colman believes everyone possesses all facets of identity, stating, "I don't feel like it's binary."