Let me tell you a story about love blooming in the most unexpected places. Patrick Duffy and Linda Purl, two incredibly talented actors, found themselves stuck in a two-week quarantine together in Canada. Sounds like the setup for a romantic movie, right? Well, life imitated art in this case. They didn’t just sit around waiting for the clock to tick down. No, they made the most of it. They exercised, cooked dinner together, and even adopted a seagull who frequented their balcony. Yep, you heard that right—a seagull! Linda, in her usual charm, tells Closer, “We named him Elmer. We created little videos on Instagram. It was absolutely hilarious.”
It’s been less than a year since Patrick, 72, known for his iconic role in Dallas, and Linda, 65, a long-time actress, fell head over heels for each other. And let me tell you, they’re not just coasting—they’re thriving. Patrick, speaking exclusively to Closer, shares, “To look forward to every moment you can be with someone is a real gift in a relationship. I’m stunned every single time I realize this incredible woman loves me. It’s just…wow!” Can you feel the sincerity in that? It’s not just about being together; it’s about cherishing every second.
Quarantine: The Ultimate Relationship Test
Now, here’s the kicker. Patrick lives in California, and Linda calls Colorado home. So, when they had to quarantine together to film their roles in Doomsday Mom: The Lori Vallow Story in Vancouver (premiering June 26 on Lifetime), it was a real test of their long-distance relationship. Patrick reflects, “It was a time to really get to know one another with no outside influences to encumber you. We found out that we’re aiming in the same direction.” Talk about deepening your connection! When you strip away the distractions, you’re left with the raw essence of who someone is. And clearly, Patrick and Linda saw the best in each other.
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Patrick never thought he’d find love again after losing his wife of 43 years, ballet dancer Carlyn Rosser. But fate had other plans. He and Linda connected late last year during a group text chat. Linda jokingly calls their slow courtship “a very Victorian process” because they spent weeks talking before they ever shared a kiss. Patrick elaborates, “We Zoomed every single night for at least two to three hours. We explored all our history, our past, our loves. We listened to music together and covered all that ground you normally cover over months of dating.” That’s commitment, folks. Real, deep, meaningful connection before even meeting in person.
An Unlikely On-Screen Chemistry
Playing a married couple in their new television movie felt incredibly natural. Patrick gushes, “It’s the first time in my entire career that I got up in the morning with my co-star and then walked to the set holding hands. The chemistry works, offstage and on. And always being together and not being afraid to show affection was so enjoyable.” Patrick and Linda are already looking for other projects they can tackle together. It’s not just about working; it’s about being together, sharing their passions, and growing as a team.
Unlike the romances of his youth, Patrick finds that love later in life is much more selfless. “You get to a point where you think, ‘It’s all about her. How do I get her to smile?’” he says. “We’ve eliminated all the trial and errors that happen in younger relationships. It’s all positive and lovely.” It’s refreshing to hear that love can evolve and become even more beautiful as we age.
Love Can Happen When You Least Expect It
Linda adds, “Life is full of surprises, both good and bad. Patrick and I weren’t looking for this. We didn’t expect it or see it coming when our paths crossed. Don’t ever give up.” Her message is clear: love can happen at any stage of life. You just have to stay open to it. It’s a powerful reminder that life is unpredictable, but that’s what makes it so exciting.
— Reporting by Susan L. Hornick
