The passing of Canadian actor Graham Greene in September 2025, at the age of 73, marked the end of a remarkable life and a long-lasting marriage. Just months shy of their 35th wedding anniversary, Greene spent his final moments surrounded by the love of his wife, Hilary Blackmore, in a Toronto hospital. While their love story is being widely celebrated, their relationship wasn’t without its minor disagreements, a testament to the enduring nature of their commitment.
A Life and Career Celebrated
Graham Greene, a celebrated figure in Hollywood and beyond, leaves behind a legacy of impactful performances and a personal life that garnered significant admiration. His career spanned numerous films, showcasing his talent and versatility. His passing prompted an outpouring of grief from fans, colleagues, and most importantly, his family. His representative poignantly described him as “finally free” after a prolonged battle with declining health.
A Love Story Forged in the Entertainment World
Greene’s relationship with Hilary Blackmore was a cornerstone of his life. Their romance began in 1989, during a theatrical production at Toronto’s Passe Muraille Theatre, a chance encounter that led to a decades-long partnership. Initially a fellow actress, Hilary later focused on costume design and other related roles. She supported Greene’s burgeoning Hollywood career, making a conscious choice to step back from her own acting pursuits as his star rose. Their wedding took place on December 20, 1990, a union registered at Toronto City Hall, further cementing their commitment.
The couple’s story is filled with anecdotes that highlight their bond. Greene’s vivid recollection of their first meeting, involving a dropped wrench and his “biker mode” attire, paints a picture of a playful courtship. His immediate call to Hilary to share the news of his Oscar nomination for his role in *Dances with Wolves* underscores the profound importance she held in his life. This moment of shared joy stands as a symbol of their enduring connection.
A Life Outside Hollywood
Despite his Hollywood success, Greene remained grounded, choosing a life outside of the Los Angeles spotlight. He and Hilary made their home outside of Toronto, surrounded by a menagerie of cats. He embraced a life beyond acting, finding joy in writing, boat building, and golf, emphasizing a life of leisure and self-improvement. His preference for a quieter existence, away from the hustle of the city, is evident in his decision to move to a sprawling log house in Udora, a tranquil countryside escape about an hour from Toronto.
A Home Filled with Contrasts
Their country home, a testament to their personal style, reflected both their shared love and individual tastes. Greene’s preference for 18th-century furnishings clashed slightly with Hilary’s inclination towards Mission-style aesthetics, leading to the only notable tension in their otherwise harmonious relationship. The home, featuring a spacious studio, a haven for Greene, and a loft space for Hilary, comfortably accommodated their individual preferences. While Greene’s studio, jokingly dubbed “Tubby’s Clubhouse,” was a men’s-only zone where he watched movies, worked out, and read scripts, Hilary’s sanctuary offered space for her books, films, and their beloved rescue cats.
The Simple Joys and Small Disagreements
Their annual Christmas tree decorating battles, a recurring disagreement over the aesthetic of their festive tree, stand out as a humorous testament to their unique dynamic. These small disagreements only served to highlight the extraordinary stability of their marriage. The fact that their annual decorating conflict was among their most significant disagreements underscores the overwhelming harmony and mutual respect that defined their relationship for over three decades.
A Lasting Legacy
Graham Greene’s marriage to Hilary Blackmore stands as a testament to the enduring power of love and commitment in an industry often characterized by fleeting relationships. Their 35-year union, marked by mutual respect and understanding, despite their minor differences, serves as an inspiring example of a strong and enduring partnership. Beyond his acting career, Graham Greene’s legacy also includes his daughter, Lilly Lazare-Greene, and his grandson, Tarlo, who continue to carry on his memory. He will be remembered for his talent, wisdom, and enduring humor, both on and off screen.