'Celebrate The Differences': Brady Bunch Star Maureen McCormick's Marriage Advice Is Tried-And-True

"The Brady Bunch" star Maureen McCormick has been married to her husband, producer Michael Cummings, since 1985. The couple spoke with People in September 2025, sharing advice for those seeking to have a long, successful marriage. McCormick's advice was rather simple and familiar: "Celebrate the differences," she said. Having being married for nearly just as long, Dorothea Hurley and Jon Bon Jovi, whose marriage is proof that opposites attract, are a testament to this advice as well.

Cummings also shared some insight into how he and McCormick go about celebrating their differences. "You've got to have a sense of humor about things," he explained. "You can't take things too seriously. You got to let things go and just love the one you're with. It's a lifetime deal." For McCormick and Cummings, who began dating in the 1980s, it was love from the start. "Ever since I was little I wanted to get married and find somebody," the actor recalled. "It's just the craziest thing, but I looked at his eyes ... and I just felt like he was the one." Don't believe in love at first sight? Fellow actor Lisa Kudrow also knew her husband was the one right away, and shared similar advice about handling differences in marriage.

Although Maureen McCormick and Michael Cummings prioritize laughter and humor in their marriage, there was a time before tying the knot when the duo nearly split. Like many child stars, McCormick, who played Marcia Brady from 1969 to 1974, struggled with addiction. She told Us Weekly, "He came to me and said, 'If you ever do this drug again, I'm gone, I'm leaving.' It woke me up. It was like the coldest shower you could ever take, there's just no way I'm gonna lose somebody that I love." Like many child stars who are practically unrecognizable now, McCormick occasionally reconnects with her former cast members, but keeps her circle much smaller these days.

"I recommend to anyone who's struggling ... throw that phone book out and do not, do not hang out with anyone who's using," she advised. "I had to literally say goodbye to so many people that I was hanging out with." Despite life's challenges, McCormick, like Eve Plumb, who had a stunning  transformation since the "The Brady Bunch," has exemplified the meaning of aging gracefully. 

If you or anyone you know needs help with addiction issues, help is available. Visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website or contact SAMHSA's National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).