Actor Charlie Hunnam, known for his role in Monster: The Ed Gein Story, made headlines at the 2026 Critics Choice Awards when he referred to his longtime girlfriend, Morgana McNelis, as his “wife.” The 45-year-old star made the remark while talking about his New Year celebrations in a pre-show interview with ExtraTV. He mentioned that he and McNelis spent the day quietly, going for a hike and setting intentions for the new year.
Charlie Hunnam Refers to Girlfriend as Wife Publicly
Charlie Hunnam and Morgana McNelis have been in a relationship for almost twenty years, but they have always kept their life together private. Despite being in the public eye, the couple rarely attends events together. Their most recent public outing before the Critics Choice Awards was at the 2025 Emmy Awards, where they posed for photos together. Over the years, their strong bond and privacy have made them one of Hollywood’s most stable couples.
In the interview, Hunnam described his approach to life and relationships. He explained that while he had considered himself “married” to McNelis in a romantic sense, he never felt the need for an official ceremony or legal recognition. In 2020, he stated that the romance and commitment mattered more to him than any legal formality, emphasizing the emotional bond over paperwork.
Hunnam also shared a lighter moment about his work while filming Monster: The Ed Gein Story. He revealed that McNelis had asked him to stop using the voice of the infamous murderer around the house, joking that it was “a little too much” at breakfast. This anecdote showed the playful side of their relationship and how McNelis helps keep him grounded in his personal life despite his intense roles on screen.
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Fans and media have praised Hunnam and McNelis for their long-lasting relationship. In a world where celebrity romances often make headlines for short-lived drama, the couple’s steady commitment stands out. By publicly calling McNelis his “wife,” Hunnam shared a small but meaningful glimpse of their enduring love with the world, showing that some relationships thrive quietly, away from the spotlight.
Author: Purnima s
Purnima | Entertainment Blogger 4+ yrs writing fun blogs on movies, celebs & trends. Pop culture addict serving fresh, binge-worthy content!
