"Doesn't mean it's real love" Barbara Corcoran talks about her 35-year marriage 

When Shark Tank investor and Executive Producer Barbara Corcoran was recently questioned about long-term relationships during an interview with Sprouht (YouTuber and entrepreneur), she gave a refreshingly realistic picture of marriage that may raise a few eyebrows.

As the conversation turned to find true love in modern times, and the interviewer mentioned Barbara and her husband having been married for "quite a bit," Corcoran interjected with a surprising,

"It doesn't mean it's real love."

She quickly followed up with:

"Really, don't be so quick to judge. I'm not saying it's not, because I love my husband Bill very much. But marriage for me is more challenging than building a business any day of the week."

Coming from someone who built a $66 million real estate empire from a $1,000 loan, that's saying something. The self-made millionaire and straight-talking Shark Tank veteran went on to share her perspective on what makes a marriage work—and it's not what you might expect from your typical relationship advice column.

Barbara Corcoran’s take on marriage and what it takes to make things work long-term

Barbara Corcoran's take on marriage is refreshingly honest:

"I think it takes great tolerance. It gets boring, marriage gets boring. I've heard that before. Even I'm boring to myself. I've said it before."

This ruthless honesty about the less glamorous parts of long-term commitment stands in sharp contrast to the sugar-coated marriage myths that are commonly told. For Corcoran, marriage is "really like a relationship of support when you need it"—a realistic viewpoint that many long-term spouses may share.

When it comes to what makes a marriage last, Barbara Corcoran emphasizes one key ingredient above all else: loyalty. Her advice for navigating rough patches?

"Shut your mouth and stay loyal and listen to them."

It's not exactly the stuff of romance novels, but according to Corcoran, this practical approach to commitment is what helps couples weather the storms of long-term relationships.

Despite her rather sobering take on marriage's challenges, Barbara Corcoran isn't all doom and gloom about committed relationships. "You can take it for granted that you have someone in your corner," she notes, highlighting the security that comes with a long-term partnership.

She particularly values having someone who will "make a good father and always be there for your kids," emphasizing the practical benefits of a stable relationship.

Building an empire and a life beyond it

For someone who admits that marriage is harder than building a business, Corcoran has managed to excel at both. While she was turning The Corcoran Group into New York's largest residential real estate firm, she was also building a life with Bill. "You really think about it, it's for life," she reflects, suggesting that perhaps the same determination that made her a successful entrepreneur has helped sustain her 35-year marriage.

"You're not signing up for a marriage listening to me," Corcoran quips, admitting that her candid description of marital difficulties may not seem tempting. However, her straightforward approach provides something more vital than what fairy tales promise: a practical road map for navigating long-term commitment. A ride or die, to put it simply.

Barbara Corcoran believes that the answer is not to keep the flame of desire burning forever or to never become tired; rather, it is to remain loyal, retain support, and remember why you picked each other in the first place.

Trending

As of 2025, Barbara Corcoran's estimated net worth is approximately $100 million.

×

Was this article helpful?

Thank You for feedback

Comment