Martin Freeman secretly marries long-term partner Rachel Benaissa

By the Editorial Team · Friday, October 16, 2026

Actor Martin Freeman has married his longtime partner Rachel Benaissa after six years together, confirming their union with public appearances showing their wedding rings. This marks a rare moment of openness about his private life and coincides with the promotion of his new film, *A Long Winter*.

Actor Martin Freeman has quietly married his long-term partner, Rachel Benaissa, following a six-year relationship. The couple made a rare public appearance together at the London Film Festival, where Benaissa displayed a striking emerald and diamond ring, drawing attention for its size and design. Freeman was also seen wearing a gold band on his wedding finger while promoting his new film, *A Long Winter*, alongside co-stars Fred Hechinger and Caitríona Balfe.

Freeman’s representative confirmed the marriage earlier this year. The actor, known for his roles in *The Hobbit* films and *The Office*, began dating French actress Benaissa in 2020. Benaissa has appeared in projects such as BBC’s *Normal People*, the comedy series *This Way Up*, and the Netflix film *Irish Wish*.

Before his relationship with Benaissa, Freeman was in a 16-year partnership with actress Amanda Abbington, his co-star on the series *Sherlock*. The two portrayed John and Mary Watson respectively. Their relationship ended in 2016, with Abbington attributing part of the split to extended periods apart due to filming schedules. Together, they have two children, Grace, 18, and Joe, 20. Despite their separation, Freeman and Abbington have maintained a friendly relationship. Abbington recently disclosed that Freeman supported her when she raised concerns over the behavior of professional dancer Giovanni Pernice during her time on *Strictly Come Dancing*. She has since become engaged to escapologist Jonathan Goodwin, who uses a wheelchair following an accident during a stunt in 2021.

Freeman has spoken sparingly about his relationship with Benaissa but shared some insight during a podcast last year. He described Benaissa’s fondness for food, especially cheese and wine, quoting her as self-identifying humorously as a “cheese and wine whore,” though he emphasized that was not all she is. The couple also share an interest in cooking.

The recent public confirmation of their marriage marks a new chapter for Freeman, known for maintaining privacy regarding his personal life.

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