Fran Drescher Opens Up About Her Relationship with Gay Ex-Husband
Fran Drescher recently revealed that her ex-husband, Peter Marc Jacobsen, remains a significant part of her life, despite their divorce. In a candid interview, the actress admitted that maintaining romantic relationships can be challenging, especially when you have such a strong connection with your former spouse.
“At this point in my life, I value my independence and I’m not willing to compromise. Having a gay ex-husband has changed my perspective on companionship. I don’t feel the need to seek out a new partner,” Drescher shared.
Drescher and Jacobsen tied the knot in 1978 when she was just 21 years old. The couple found success together as the creators of the popular sitcom “The Nanny,” in which Drescher also starred. Following the show’s end in 1999, Jacobsen came out as gay, and the pair divorced shortly after. Despite their split, they have maintained a close friendship over the years.
Jacobsen often accompanies Drescher to red carpet events and other Hollywood functions, leading Drescher to joke that he can sometimes be a “block” to her romantic pursuits. “I can have casual relationships, but because I have Peter by my side, I find it challenging to pursue anything more serious. He’s been a constant presence in my life since I was 15,” Drescher explained.
Following their divorce, Drescher and Jacobsen turned their personal story into the sitcom “Happily Divorced,” which aired on TV Land. The show, based on their own experiences, followed a couple whose marriage ended after the husband came out as gay. Drescher emphasized that despite their divorce, she and Jacobsen consider themselves soulmates and are grateful for the strong bond they share.
While Jacobsen has not remarried, Drescher gave marriage another try with tech entrepreneur Shiva Ayyadurai in 2014. However, the couple divorced two years later. Jacobsen has spoken openly about his journey to self-acceptance as a gay man, attributing the demands of “The Nanny” for the strain it put on his relationship with Drescher.
In a 2015 interview, Jacobsen admitted that he had suppressed his attraction to men for years before exploring his sexuality after the divorce. He acknowledged that his controlling behavior during their marriage was a contributing factor to their split, but ultimately, he found peace in embracing his true self.
Overall, Drescher and Jacobsen’s story is a testament to the enduring power of friendship and mutual respect, even after the end of a romantic relationship. Their journey from spouses to close friends is a reminder that love can take many forms, and true connections can withstand the test of time.
