Dyan Cannon, 88, reveals She Enjoys “friends With Benefits”
The actress, known for her roles in classic films and her high-profile marriages, is embracing life and love on her own terms.
Dyan Cannon, the celebrated actress with a career spanning decades, is making headlines again. At 88, Cannon isn’t slowing down, revealing that she’s actively dating and enjoys the company of “friends with benefits.”
The actress shared her views on love and relationships at the Hollywood Beauty Awards this past Sunday, telling People magazine that she is seeing “somebody vrey special.” Cannon elaborated, “Several special [people]… I have friends with benefits, yes.”
A Life of Love and Accomplishment
Cannon’s life has been anything but ordinary. A trailblazer in Hollywood, she holds the distinction of being the first woman to recieve Oscar nominations for both acting and filmmaking. Her romantic history includes relationships with prominent figures, including a notable “love affair” with the legendary Johnny Carson.
While details of their relationship remain somewhat private, Cannon fondly remembers their time together. A clip from one of Cannon’s appearances on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” offers a glimpse into their dynamic.
dyan Cannon’s appearance on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson”.
cannon reflected on her appearances with Carson, whose life was recently revisited on “The hidden Side of Johnny Carson” on CBS’ “Sunday Morning.” According to People magazine, she said, “I rattled him, and I love that… We love it when we rattle men who aren’t usually rattled, don’t we?”
Cannon fondly recalled that she and Carson kept their relationship under wraps. “he loved it,” Cannon noted. “He loved it. we used to go to restaurants, and they’d shut down the entire restaurant for him.”
“He was a special man,” she added. “I’ve known a lot of special men. And there’s more to come.”
Carson passed away in 2005 due to complications from emphysema at the age of 79.
Marriage to Cary Grant and Family Life
Cannon’s most well-known marriage was to Hollywood icon Cary Grant. The couple was married from 1965 to 1968 and had a daughter together, Jennifer Grant. In 2023, Cannon and jennifer collaborated on “Archie,” a Britbox series centered around cary Grant’s life.
According to interviews,Jennifer found it “healing” to see her parents’ love story portrayed on screen. Cary Grant died in 1986 at 82 after suffering a stroke.
Cannon was also briefly married to Stanley Fimberg from 1985 to 1991.
The Evolving Landscape of Relationships
Cannon’s openness about her current relationships reflects a broader shift in societal attitudes toward dating and intimacy, especially among older adults. As Boomers and older generations redefine retirement and challenge conventional norms, discussions about “friends with benefits” and other non-traditional relationships are becoming more common.
For many older adults, these types of relationships offer companionship, physical intimacy, and emotional support without the complexities and commitments of traditional partnerships. this can be especially appealing for those who have experienced loss, divorce, or simply prefer to maintain their independence.
| Relationship Style | Key Features | Potential Benefits | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| friends with Benefits | Friendship combined with casual sexual activity. | Companionship, intimacy, reduced loneliness. | Clear communication, emotional boundaries, risk of STIs. |
| Open Relationship | Consensual non-monogamy with established rules. | Exploration of desires, increased autonomy, honesty. | Jealousy, insecurity, complex communication. |
| Living apart Together (LAT) | Committed relationship where partners maintain separate homes. | Independence, personal space, reduced conflict. | Social stigma, logistical challenges, potential for miscommunication. |
Expert Perspectives on Later-Life Dating
Experts in gerontology and relationship counseling emphasize the importance of open communication and realistic expectations in later-life dating. Dr. Pepper Schwartz, a renowned sociologist and relationship expert, notes that “older adults bring a wealth of experience and a clearer understanding of their needs and desires to the dating table.”
However, she also cautions against overlooking potential challenges: “It’s crucial to discuss expectations, boundaries, and health concerns upfront. Issues like age-related health changes, financial security, and family dynamics can significantly impact relationships in this stage of life.”
Older adults bring a wealth of experience and a clearer understanding of their needs and desires to the dating table.
Dr. pepper Schwartz, Sociologist and Relationship Expert
For American seniors navigating the dating world, resources like AARP offer guidance on safe dating practices, online dating tips, and advice on addressing age-related issues in relationships.
How does Dyan Cannon’s example change societal perceptions of later-life relationships?
An interview with Dr.Evelyn Reed on Dyan Cannon, Later-Life Dating, and “Friends with Benefits”
Introduction
Welcome to Archyde. Today, we have dr. Evelyn Reed, a Gerontologist specializing in relationships, to discuss Dyan Cannon’s recent revelations about her dating life, especially her embrace of “friends with benefits” at 88. Dr. Reed, thank you for joining us.
Understanding the Shift in Later-Life Relationships
Archyde: Dr. Reed, Dyan Cannon’s openness seems to echo a broader trend. Can you explain why we’re seeing more older adults exploring different relationship styles, including ‘friends with benefits’?
Dr. Reed: Absolutely. Several factors contribute. Firstly,there’s a significant shift in societal attitudes toward aging and relationships. Secondly, people are living longer and healthier lives, leading to a desire for continued intimacy and companionship. Lastly, experiences like loss or divorce can influence individuals to seek fulfilling relationships without the same pressures as traditional marriage.
Navigating “Friends with Benefits”
Archyde: The article highlights “friends with benefits.” What should people in this type of relationship prioritize?
Dr. Reed: Above all, clear communication. Explicit expectations about boundaries and exclusivity are crucial. Health considerations,including STI prevention,are paramount.Emotional boundaries are equally important to prevent hurt feelings. It’s essential to understand the potential for evolving feelings within the friendship which can change the relationship.
Challenges and benefits
Archyde: Are there specific challenges or advantages to these relationship types later in life, compared to younger adults ?
Dr. Reed: A primary benefit is the experience and self-awareness. Older adults typically have a clearer understanding of their needs. Tho,challenges may include health issues,differing financial situations,and the potential involvement of adult children,impacting the dynamics of the relationship.
The Role of Resources
Archyde: Organizations like AARP offer guidance.Are there othre resources for older adults to navigate dating or maintaining friendships with benefits?
Dr. Reed: Yes. Many retirement communities and senior centers offer workshops and support groups focusing on dating, relationships, and intimacy. Online platforms like Meetup also host social gatherings for seniors, fostering connections. Additionally, books and counseling services cater to the nuances of late-life relationships, offering valuable tools and insights.
Dyan Cannon as a role Model
Archyde: Dyan cannon’s openness appears to encourage this shift. How does her example change societal perceptions?
Dr. Reed: Cannon, along with other high-profile figures, normalizes non-traditional relationships as perfectly valid choices for older adults. this visibility combats ageism and allows people to see that intimate relationships can thrive at any age and in diverse forms.
Concluding Thoughts
Archyde: dr. Reed, this has been incredibly insightful. So,to end our dialogue,what do you think will be the most significant progress in how society perceives or handles late-life relationships in the next decade?
Dr. Reed: I foresee a continued destigmatization of non-monogamous relationships, including “friends with benefits.” I also think we’ll see increased acceptance and discussion around older adults’ sexual health and well-being. greater awareness of the importance of communication and boundaries will become commonplace in all romantic and platonic relationships.
archyde: Thank you, Dr. Reed, for sharing your expertise.
Audience Participation
We invite our readers to share their thoughts: In your opinion, what’s the most essential element for a fulfilling relationship, irrespective of age? Share your insights in the comments below.
