Leigh Lawson, 82, Shares Secret to Long Marriage with Twiggy, 75, and How Refusing Retirement Brought Them Closer

Leigh Lawson and Twiggy: The Secret to 42 Years of Marriage
[Image 1: Leigh Lawson and Twiggy smiling together in 2024]

For over four decades, Leigh Lawson, 82, and iconic model Twiggy, 75, have shared a love story strengthened by an unexpected ingredient: their refusal to retire. In an interview with the Daily Mail, Leigh revealed that staying active in their careers has kept their bond thriving. “We get on really well and spend almost all our time together,” he said. “Working on projects, like the musical Close-Up based on Twiggy’s life, keeps us connected.”

Twiggy, a fashion legend since the 1960s, continues to defy ageism in the industry. “She’s 75 and still booking Vogue covers,” Leigh proudly shared, referencing her recent shoots for Vogue Portugal and Vogue Greece, as well as her role on Germany’s Next Top Model. Meanwhile, Leigh released Now and Then, a book of autobiographical poetry, emphasizing their shared passion for creativity.

[Image 2: Leigh holding his poetry book Now and Then]

Second Chances and Shared Laughter
Both had previous marriages—Leigh divorced in 1976, while Twiggy was widowed in 1983—but found love again in their 40s. “Luck plays a part,” Leigh mused. “We were older, more willing to compromise and laugh together. Humor is the glue.”

Their meet-cute in the 1980s involved a mutual friend, actor Robert Powell, who introduced them over dinner. Though Leigh forgot to ask for her number, Twiggy took charge. “Two days later, she pulled up in a blue Jaguar and asked, ‘Do you want a cup of tea?’” he recalled. “She basically kidnapped me!”

[Image 3: Twiggy and Leigh in their younger years, circa 1980s]

Aging Gracefully—and Busily
Leigh credits their enduring partnership to mutual respect and staying curious. “Retirement isn’t for us,” he said. Twiggy’s relentless energy inspires him, while his poetry reflects life’s joys and challenges. “Writing is therapy. It’s good for the soul,” he shared, citing late composer Leslie Bricusse and filmmaker Billy Wilder as inspirations.

Reflecting on modern dating, Leigh joked, “Thankfully, we didn’t need apps! How do young people flirt now? Everything’s politically incorrect.”

[Image 4: Leigh and Twiggy collaborating on a project]

Legacy and Love
As they embrace their 80s and 70s, the couple remains unstoppable. “Getting older means not caring what others think,” Leigh said. “It’s never too late to chase dreams.”

Now and Then by Leigh Lawson is available at Waterstones and other bookstores.

[Image 5: Twiggy on a recent Vogue cover]

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