From a fortuitous encounter at a pharmacy to becoming one of Hollywood’s most admired couples, Colman Domingo and his husband Raúl have quietly built a remarkable relationship spanning nearly 20 years. While the acclaimed actor has steadily risen to prominence through roles in “The Walking Dead” and recent critically acclaimed films, their relationship remained largely private until recent high-profile appearances sparked widespread interest in their love story.
As the couple steps further into the public eye, their journey offers a refreshing glimpse into a genuine partnership built on chance, commitment and unwavering support.
The Berkeley pharmacy encounter that started it all
The story begins in 2005 inside a Berkeley, California Walgreens. Domingo recently captivated audiences on “The Graham Norton Show” by recounting how he first spotted Raúl, describing him as a “beautiful” man with “beautiful hair” and a distinctive lip piercing. Despite being engaged in a phone conversation, Domingo found himself drawn to make eye contact with Raúl, who was shopping with a friend.
The brief encounter left such an impression that Domingo contemplated posting a “missed connection” advertisement on Craigslist later that day while browsing for a used computer. In a remarkable twist of serendipity, he discovered Raúl had already created a post searching for him, specifically mentioning his distinctive fo-hawk hairstyle.
“He placed an ad for me two hours before,” Domingo recounted in the interview that has since gone viral, delighting fans with the authenticity of their meet-cute story.
From strangers to partners in mere days
Their initial meeting occurred just three days after connecting through the Craigslist advertisement, at a bar in San Francisco. What began as a casual introduction quickly evolved into something profound. By 4 a.m., Domingo found himself making a declaration that would prove prophetic, “I think I love you, and you’re about to change my life.”
This bold admission marked the beginning of a relationship that has now spanned nearly two decades, proving his intuition remarkably accurate.
Shortly after their first encounter, their commitment faced an immediate test when Domingo secured an acting role requiring relocation to Alaska. Rather than allowing distance to create separation, Raúl accompanied him, working as an assistant costume designer on the production. This early willingness to prioritize their relationship established a foundation of mutual support that continues to define their partnership.
Building a life together
Though Raúl proposed to Domingo in November 2005, just months after they met, the couple waited nearly a decade before formalizing their union. In 2015, they hosted a characteristically intimate wedding at their home with only 25 guests in attendance.
The celebration reflected their distinctive approach to relationship milestones, with the couple surprising arriving guests by greeting them with the simple announcement: “Welcome to our wedding.” This understated celebration perfectly captured their authentic approach to their relationship.
Supporting each other through success
While many fans have only recently discovered their relationship, Raúl has consistently remained Domingo’s greatest supporter throughout his career. According to GQ magazine, he attended nearly every performance of Domingo’s work in the play “Jonestown,” regularly bringing white roses as a token of his affection and admiration.
Their recent public appearances have brought increased visibility to their enduring partnership. At the 2025 Film Independent Spirit Awards, Domingo showcased his distinctive style in a custom Dolce & Gabbana silver silk suit, while Raúl complemented him perfectly in a sophisticated three-piece black ensemble.
Their coordinated appearance at the Oscars further highlighted their stylistic harmony, with Domingo selecting a bold red wrap suit jacket symbolizing love, an appropriate choice for a couple whose relationship has become an unexpected source of inspiration for many.
A partnership built to last
The resurgence of interest in Domingo and Raúl’s relationship offers a refreshing counterpoint to Hollywood’s often transitory partnerships. Their connection, born from a chance encounter and strengthened through years of mutual support, resonates precisely because it feels so authentic.
As Domingo continues to receive recognition for his acting achievements, their relationship provides a compelling reminder of how emotional support often underpins professional success. Raúl’s consistent presence throughout Domingo’s career trajectory illuminates the importance of partnership in navigating the entertainment industry’s unique challenges.
While the couple did not actively seek the public attention their relationship now receives, the widespread positive response to their story speaks to a collective appreciation for genuine connection. As they continue navigating increased visibility, their decades-long commitment serves as a testament to partnership built on mutual respect and unwavering support.
The viral spread of their origin story, with its elements of chance, intuition and immediate connection, reminds us that meaningful relationships can begin in the most unexpected places, even the aisles of a neighborhood pharmacy.
