Melissa Newman is paying tribute to her iconic parents, Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward, by unveiling personal memories in her new book, “Head Over Heels: Joanne Woodward and Paul Newman: A Love Affair in Words and Pictures.” This heartfelt publication features a collection of never-before-seen family photos that offer a glimpse into their lives together.
In an interview with TODAY’s Jenna Bush Hager on October 10th, Melissa shared her unique childhood memories, noting, “I always say I had a picture of my dad as a cowboy and a picture of my mom as a stripper. At one point, those were the only two family pictures I had.” Despite the unconventional nature of these snapshots, she fondly recalls the strong bond between her parents and their extraordinary love story.
Paul and Joanne first crossed paths while working on the Broadway production of “Picnic” in 1953 and married in 1958, eventually welcoming three daughters into their family. Melissa reflects on the complexity of her parents’ relationship, emphasizing their profound connection: “The picture on the cover of the book is from very, very early in their relationship. You can see how it was a snowball rolling down a hill. They found each other.”
Beyond the glamour of Hollywood, Paul and Joanne cherished a grounded family life, engaging in simple pleasures like cooking, fishing, and spending quality time with their children. Melissa fondly remembers her father’s affectionate gestures, recalling, “I would watch my father walk by my mother, and he would just do this little pinch. They were very affectionate with each other.”
Their enduring marriage lasted until Paul’s passing in 2008, with Melissa’s book capturing the intricate lives of her parents as both celebrated stars and devoted parents. She remarks on her mother’s hands-on parenting style, contrasting it with her father’s more carefree approach: “There was my mother, who was really hands-on when she was home. She knew where everybody was. My dad, on the other hand, wouldn’t have a clue!”
Melissa also sheds light on her father’s self-critical nature regarding parenting, recalling a significant compliment he gave her: “My father said to me once, ‘You and Raphe broke the cycle of bad parenting.’ That was the biggest compliment he could give me!” Through her book, Melissa paints a vivid portrait of her parents’ unwavering love, which endured until the very end.
For those seeking an intimate look into the remarkable lives of Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward, “Head Over Heels: Joanne Woodward and Paul Newman: A Love Affair in Words and Pictures” is a must-read. Melissa Newman’s heartfelt anecdotes and previously unseen family photos offer an enchanting glimpse into the personal world of this legendary Hollywood couple.
