At 64, George Clooney isn’t just promoting his new film, Jay Kelly; he’s reflecting on the big questions. During a revealing chat with CBS News at the Venice Film Festival, Clooney discussed how ageing has changed his outlook—not just on his career, but on marriage and parenthood, too. Once known for his bachelor lifestyle, Clooney now credits his years for giving him a sense of calm and a fresh perspective on what truly matters. No more fussing over being right in every conversation, no more letting pride get in the way. Has age mellowed him, or is it Amal’s influence? Probably a bit of both.
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Letting go of vanity and embracing harmony
Ageing, according to Clooney, has made him less concerned with appearances and more focused on building genuine connections. Instead of dwelling on old habits or clinging to being the centre of attention, he’s now all about enjoying the present and appreciating those closest to him. He admits that he’s learned to pick his battles—or rather, not to pick them at all. The result? A marriage where arguments simply don’t happen.
Instead of letting egos clash, George and Amal have built a partnership based on mutual support and understanding.
“You just don’t waste time on small things”
He jokes, making it clear that laughter is a big part of their household. It’s not about ignoring problems, but about approaching them as a team. Ah, the wisdom that comes with a few grey hairs and a lot of life experience.
Meeting Amal: the unexpected turn that changed everything
Funny to think that Clooney once swore off marriage and children, isn’t it? Yet, meeting Amal proved to be a turning point. He describes her as brilliant, deeply compassionate, quick-witted, and—perhaps most importantly—a truly dedicated mother. It’s clear that admiration is mutual, and the couple’s dynamic seems to thrive on respect and shared values.
With their eight-year-old twins, Ella and Alexander, the Clooneys have created a home full of warmth and humour. Clooney is quick to poke fun at his parenting skills, admitting he sometimes just “wings it.” But one thing’s certain: both parents are hands-on and fully present. Family dinners, bedtime stories, and shared adventures are the norm. Doesn’t that sound like the kind of chaos anyone would secretly envy?
He’s open about how his priorities have shifted, too. “There was a time when the next film or project seemed like the most important thing in the world,” he muses. Now, it’s all about cherishing family moments—those little things that, in the end, turn out to be the big things.
Family comes first
If you’d asked Clooney years ago whether he’d trade a blockbuster premiere for a quiet night at home, he probably would’ve laughed. But these days, he’s the first to say that family takes precedence. Even with the pull of Hollywood, both George and Amal make sure to carve out time for their children and each other. Friends of the couple often remark on the joy and laughter that fill their home—a picture of ordinary happiness, despite their extraordinary lives.
Balancing a busy career and a lively family isn’t always a walk in the park, but Clooney insists it’s worth every juggling act.
“You have to decide what matters most and stick with it,” he says, his voice carrying the calm certainty of someone who’s done the work.
It’s not about perfection; it’s about showing up, letting go of pride, and finding joy in the everyday. Isn’t that what we’re all after?
Can we all learn from the Clooneys?
Fans and the wider public have been quick to pick up on Clooney’s approach. Many see George and Amal as a couple that breaks the celebrity mould—less drama, more down-to-earth love. Social media is full of admiration for their “no-arguments” philosophy, with some even wondering if they’re too good to be true. But maybe, just maybe, their secret is something we can all try: more listening, more laughing, and a lot less stubbornness. Food for thought, right?
What’s next for the Clooneys? With a new film on the horizon and a family at the heart of it all, it seems the best chapters are still being written. And for those of us watching from the sidelines, there’s plenty of inspiration to go around.
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Sources used:
George Clooney Reveals Why He and Amal Have 'Never Had a Fight' During Their 11-Year Marriage
