The phrase “relationship goals” can feel overused these days, but when it comes to Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard, it’s beyond apt. The couple is always super-honest—and often hilarious—about what it takes to make their marriage work. But they also just seem to enjoy each other so much—even when discussing tough subjects.
Case in point: Shepard’s sobriety, something that he’s been really transparent about over the years. In an interview with People published Saturday, Bell talks about how appreciative she his for the work her husband does to maintain a sober lifestyle. “I know how much effort has to be put into staying sober. I don’t mean that to be like, I come home and see him shaking and looking at a whiskey ad or something, [but] there are different elements you have to deal with when you’re staying sober,” she says. “It’s a ton of mental control and evolution.”
To make Shepard’s accomplishment, the couple celebrate his “sober birthday” each year, just as one might a regular birthday. She “spoils the hell out of me,” he says. “The nicest presents she’s gotten me are always on my sober birthday. In fact, my real birthday … still haven’t gotten a present!”
“I’m very happy he was born so I celebrate his birthday, but I’m extraordinarily [happy] that he has stayed sober because that’s what allows me to have him in my life as a husband and as a father,” Bell added.
She’s also spoken out on Instagram to publicly show her pride for her husband’s sobriety, too. “I know how much you loved using. I know how much it got in your way. And I know, because I saw, how hard you worked to live without it,” she wrote on his 14th sobriety birthday last September. “I will forever be in awe of your dedication, and the level of fierce moral inventory you perform on yourself, like an emotional surgery, every single night.”
“I’m so proud that you have never been ashamed of your story, but instead shared it widely, with the hope it might inspire someone else to become the best version of themselves. You have certainly inspired me to do so,” she continued. “I love you more than I ever thought I could love anyone, and I want you to know, I see you. I see how hard you work. You set an excellent example of being human. Happy 14th year sobriety birthday.”
Supportive even through the tough stuff—now that’s a real couple goal.
