Malin Akerman has opened up about her marriage to British actor Jack Donnelly, revealing why she deliberately avoided using the word “forever” in her wedding vows. During a November 11 appearance on the Call Her Daddy podcast, the The Hunting Wives actress explained that her previous divorce had changed how she viewed marriage and long-term commitments.
Akerman, 48, has been married to Donnelly since December 2018. The couple share a close relationship and have worked together on several entertainment projects. Donnelly is also a stepfather to Akerman’s son, Sebastian, from her previous marriage to musician Roberto Zincone.
Who Is Malin Akerman’s Husband Jack Donnelly?
Jack Donnelly is a British actor, writer and director best known for portraying Jason in the BBC fantasy adventure series Atlantis, which aired from 2013 to 2015.
Born on October 28, 1985, in England, Donnelly developed an interest in acting during his younger years. He trained in performing arts before establishing himself in British television.
His acting credits include House of Anubis, Atlantis and the vampire comedy film Slayers. He has also appeared in several productions alongside his wife.
Although Donnelly maintains a relatively private lifestyle, he occasionally attends Hollywood events and premieres with Akerman.
The couple were recently photographed together during a double date with Akerman’s The Hunting Wives co-star Brittany Snow and her boyfriend, Hunter Moreno, in New York City.
How Did Malin Akerman and Jack Donnelly Meet?
Akerman and Donnelly first met through a mutual connection involving her younger sister.
Donnelly was friends with her sister’s boyfriend from drama school in England. Although Akerman initially knew him socially, their relationship became romantic several years later.
The actress previously explained that she began seeing Donnelly differently when he returned from England.
Their relationship became public in 2017, and Donnelly proposed in October of that year.
The proposal took place after a romantic dinner at one of Akerman’s favorite restaurants in Brooklyn. Donnelly later got down on one knee and presented her with an engagement ring.
The couple married on December 1, 2018, at the Papaya Playa Project in Tulum, Mexico.
Their beach wedding was attended by close friends and family members, including Akerman’s young son.
Why Malin Akerman Avoided Saying Forever in Her Wedding Vows
During her appearance on Call Her Daddy, Akerman discussed how her first marriage influenced her wedding vows to Donnelly.
She explained that she wanted their promises to reflect the relationship they were building rather than make guarantees about an unpredictable future.
The actress said she deliberately avoided promising to stay married forever because she believed such a commitment should remain honest and realistic.
She also acknowledged that relationships can change over time and that remaining in an unhappy marriage should not be treated as an obligation.
However, Akerman made it clear that she remains deeply committed to Donnelly.
She explained that their relationship allows her to be vulnerable, communicate openly and feel comfortable being herself.
Her comments attracted attention because they offered a personal perspective on marriage rather than the traditional expectations often associated with wedding vows.
Malin Akerman’s First Husband and Son Sebastian
Before marrying Donnelly, Akerman was married to Italian musician Roberto Zincone.
The former couple married in 2007 and welcomed their son, Sebastian, in April 2013.
Their relationship ended later that year, and their divorce was finalized in 2014.
Following the separation, Akerman focused on raising Sebastian while continuing her acting career.
Donnelly subsequently developed a close relationship with her son.
Akerman has previously described how naturally Donnelly connected with Sebastian and how important that bond was when she considered marrying him.
She recalled that Sebastian reacted enthusiastically when she told him about their engagement.
Donnelly has continued to play an important role in their family life.
Malin Akerman and Jack Donnelly’s Life Together
Akerman and Donnelly have collaborated professionally on several projects, including Friendsgiving, A Week in Paradise and Slayers.
The actress has spoken positively about working with her husband, explaining that sharing film projects allows them to spend more time together as a family.
The couple also prioritize regular date nights and opportunities to reconnect away from their professional responsibilities.
Akerman has remained busy with her acting career, particularly following the success of The Hunting Wives, in which she portrays Margo Banks.
The Netflix drama has attracted considerable attention, with another season expected to expand the story.
As of November 12, 2026, Akerman and Donnelly remain married. Her recent podcast comments have offered a closer look at their relationship, emphasizing honesty, communication and the importance of choosing to remain together rather than relying on traditional promises.