HGTV personalities Ben and Erin Napier have shared that the primary "problems" in their nearly 18-year marriage stem from their inability to spend extended periods apart.
"Which has only happened a handful of times," Ben Napier, 43, stated during an appearance on "Talk To Me: The Debra Fileta Podcast." Erin Napier, 41, echoed this sentiment, noting that they are "hardly ever" separated for long.
The couple, who have been together since 2004, explained that their communication remains constant when they are apart. "It’s, ‘Hey, why didn’t you answer when I called you? Because I was busy, what’s wrong? Why was that so important that you needed me to answer right away?'" Ben described, adding, "So I guess really, our problem is that we can’t be apart."
Erin added that the "Home Town" stars "really can’t function separately." She also detailed the impact of their separations on their two daughters, Helen, 8, and Mae, 5, explaining that the children "can’t function" with only one parent present. Erin recalled a recent instance where Ben was away for a single night, and their daughters reacted as if he had passed away, which she described as "insane."
Given their long history together, the Napiers acknowledged that they have always operated as a unit. "We’ve always worked together, and we don’t know how to do it any other way," Ben said. He added that the idea of not being able to work with one's spouse all day might indicate a deeper issue within that relationship.
While their closeness is evident, Erin did mention a difference in their personalities: Ben's intense focus on others' needs. "It’s not for me. It’s not for me at all," she admitted, stating, "I’m jealous of him." Ben responded, "That’s why we’re a good fit."
Erin also shared that her parents immediately approved of Ben, finding him "wonderful," a reception that differed from their reactions to her previous partners. She previously described her husband as "100% irreplaceable," emphasizing his unique nature.