The Americans, one of the best shows on television, returns to FX on March 16 for another season of sexy espionage, American-Russian relations, and couplehood tips. While it may not seem like it, considering it was arranged by the KGB, but Elizabeth and Philip Jennings, as played with Emmy-worthy excellence by Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys, have a very strong marriage.
Here’s why, and how you can strengthen your own.
1. It’s all about trust
Trust is important in all relationships, but especially in marriages. You have to trust that your husband or wife has your best interests in mind, that they’d never do something to betray or upset you. Or, in Elizabeth and Philip’s case, trust that if there’s a dead, naked body in a hotel room that needs to be snapped apart, folded, and stuffed into a suitcase, your partner will break bones with you. To paraphrase the almost era-appropriate George Michael, you gotta have faith (that your mate will cover up a homicide with you).
2. Do things together
Your tooth is aching. You could go to the dentist without your spouse, but that would mean you guys have to spend time apart. Plus, it’s a hassle to take a day off work, and drive to Dr. Smiles during lunchtime, and you feel obligated to make awkward small-talk with the other patients in the waiting room. Why go through all that when your lover can do the extraction without the help of a fancy dentist? One yank with a pair of old pliers, and that nasty tooth is out. Not only did you save some money, you saved money… together.
3. Keep things kinky in the bedroom
It’s the plot of a million crummy romantic comedies. A married couple’s sex life grows stale because they’ve been together for so long; the spark is gone. There’s no chase or pressure to impress anymore — you’ve already landed the person you want to spend the rest of your life with. But sometimes, it’s fun to mix things up. Instead of your normal boudoir routine, maybe try something new? Like 69-ing. You’re both being pleased at the same time! Maybe make sure your bedroom door is locked, though…
4. Life imitates art
It’s often said that you shouldn’t sh*t where you eat, or, in less disgusting terms, don’t date your co-workers. It may seem like a good idea to have a one-night-stand with Cindy in accounting or Jerry in marketing, but that evening of fun could turn into an actual romantic relationship. Everything’s great and wonderful, until it isn’t, but you still have to see your ex every day in the office. So, yes, it could turn sour, or maybe your desk mate is your soulmate? Rhys and Russell are examples of this. They were co-stars on The Americans, then they started dating and now she’s expecting a child. Sometimes, it’s okay to sh*t where you eat. Just not literally.
5. Wigs
Look, if Elizabeth and Philip really wanted to, they could kill each other, mission be damned. They have the particular set of skills that would allow them to get away with murder. But they don’t pull the trigger. Outside of everything that’s already been mentioned, there must be something, some strange, mystical element, that’s keeping them together. I think I know what it is: Wigs. Hilariously dated hairstyles. That’s the key to a strong marriage.
