At a Glance
- Niecy Nash-Betts and Jessica Betts marked their five-year anniversary with a Mardi Gras-themed celebration.
- The couple, who married in August 2020, revealed a playful marriage rule: “Only make love to each other.”
- They shared lessons learned over five years, including the importance of dating, therapy, and skinny-dipping.
- Why it matters: Their openness offers a fresh look at modern relationships and pandemic-era weddings.
The five-year milestone for Niecy Nash-Betts, a 55-year-old actress, and Jessica Betts, a 43-year-old musician, has become a touchstone for couples navigating long-term commitments during uncertain times. Their recent appearance at the World Premiere of Cirque Du Soleil LUDÕ in Puerto Vallarta provided a platform to discuss their marriage rule, lessons, and the celebration that marked their anniversary.
Marriage Rule
During the premiere on December 12, 2024, Nash-Betts answered a question from News Of Los Angeles with a playful grin. She said, “Only make love to each other.” The statement reflects a commitment to exclusivity and intimacy, echoing the couple’s belief that a strong sexual bond fuels a healthy partnership.
The rule, though light-hearted, underscores a deeper philosophy: keeping romance alive by prioritizing each other’s needs and desires. Nash-Betts and Betts have consistently highlighted the importance of intentionality in their relationship.
Lessons Learned
When asked about the lessons gained over five years, Betts emphasized intentionality. She said, “To be intentional, to be loving, to be thoughtful and considerate.” Nash-Betts added, “Never stop dating. Get in therapy.”
The couple also joked about their weekend skinny-dipping habit. Betts quipped, “If you have skinny dipping every weekend, your clothes automatically fall off.” Nash-Betts agreed, calling it a “must.”
These insights reveal a partnership built on communication, continuous growth, and shared humor. Their willingness to openly discuss therapy and dating shows a modern approach to relationship maintenance.
Five-Year Anniversary Celebration
On August 30, 2025, the pair hosted an intimate Mardi Gras-themed party at their California home. The event celebrated their love and the city where they first fell in love: New Orleans.
The party featured seafood boils, a brass band, and a photo booth, all designed to evoke the festive spirit of the city. Nash-Betts told News Of Los Angeles that they considered a traditional vow renewal but ultimately chose a celebration that honored their shared roots.
“We thought about doing a traditional vow renewal, and then it just kind of turned into a celebration of love and we wanted to celebrate New Orleans in that way,” Nash-Betts explained. The choice reflected their desire to keep the celebration personal and culturally resonant.
Pandemic Wedding
Their wedding took place at the same California home in August 2020 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The ceremony included drive-up COVID testing and a guest list limited to 24 people.
Nash-Betts reflected on the experience, saying, “It was the same as you see now, except it was during COVID, so less people.” Betts added, “We had a time. We danced all night. It was beautiful.”
The couple’s wedding exemplified adaptability, with safety protocols integrated into a traditional celebration. The intimate setting allowed them to focus on each other and the vows they exchanged.
Personal Reflections
Nash-Betts shared how marriage has taught her acceptance. She said, “What it’s like to be fully accepted for the core of who you are.” She continued, “Your love, specifically, has told me that I don’t have to shrink, that I could take up all the space.”
The actress described waking up each morning feeling empowered by her partner’s support. She added, “I wake up in the morning and I feel like I look at you and you put a battery in my back.”
These reflections highlight the emotional depth of their relationship. They illustrate how mutual acceptance and support can enhance personal growth.
Timeline of Key Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| August 2020 | Wedding at California home, 24 guests, drive-up testing |
| December 12, 2024 | World Premiere of LUDÕ, marriage rule revealed |
| August 30, 2025 | Five-year anniversary Mardi Gras-themed party |
The timeline showcases the couple’s journey from a pandemic-era wedding to a celebratory anniversary.
Takeaway
Niecy Nash-Betts and Jessica Betts demonstrate that modern relationships can thrive with clear rules, continuous learning, and a willingness to celebrate love in meaningful ways. Their story offers a roadmap for couples seeking to balance tradition, intimacy, and personal growth.
