In an exclusive interview with Elle magazine, actor and writer Justin Theroux opened up about his marriage to actress Jennifer Aniston, the unique dynamics of his personal life, and even the infamous sweatpants incident that left the internet abuzz. The 45-year-old Girl on the Train star, known for his roles in The Leftovers and Zoolander 2, got candid about his journey through marriage, fame, and the oddities that come with being a public figure.

The Realities of Marriage

Theroux, who tied the knot with Aniston in a private ceremony in August 2015, revealed that marriage, for him, is all about timing. “I think it’s at what age you make that commitment,” Theroux shared during the Elle interview. “When you hear about people in the ’50s getting married at 20, you’re like, ‘What were they thinking?’ My grandparents were together for over 50 years.”

The actor went on to explain that he believes in monogamy—something he says is a natural part of his outlook on life. However, he’s also gained a deeper perspective on the commitments that come with marriage. “I think it taught me to settle a little bit,” Theroux explained. “It does have a calming effect.”

While Theroux acknowledges that his marriage to Aniston has brought a sense of calm and personal growth, he also notes that marriage can be a learning process. For Theroux, it’s not about rushing to the altar but recognizing when the time is right to make a lifelong commitment. The couple’s marriage has not only solidified their bond, but it has also been a source of personal reflection, helping him understand himself better.

A Glimpse Into Their Private Life

Despite their high-profile status, Theroux shared that he and Aniston sometimes long for the days before fame took over their lives. The actor expressed a desire for simple pleasures, like strolling through New York City’s Washington Square Park without being surrounded by crowds. “It’s a luxury problem, but I would love to walk around New York with my wife. Take her to Washington Square Park,” he admitted. But he quickly followed with a humorous reality check. “It would turn into a s–t show. It would be not fun.”

The challenges of navigating public life have certainly altered the way the couple interacts with the world around them. While Theroux acknowledges the blessings of fame, he also yearns for moments of privacy that were once commonplace in his pre-fame days. For Aniston and Theroux, maintaining a sense of normalcy in an often chaotic world can be difficult.

Yet, despite the pressures of being in the public eye, the couple continues to find joy in smaller, more intimate moments. “When we did Wanderlust, we used to do karaoke once a week at [Paul] Rudd’s house,” Theroux recalled with a smile. “If there’s a microphone and a couple of Pink tracks, I’ll step up. ‘Get the Party Started’ is a great start to any karaoke.”

It’s these simple pleasures—karaoke nights with friends—that remind Theroux and Aniston of their shared sense of humor and love for life. While they may be part of the glittering Hollywood elite, their relationship remains grounded in everyday experiences that most people can relate to.

The Sweatpants Incident: A Moment of Embarrassment

Of course, no conversation with Justin Theroux would be complete without addressing the viral 2013 photo that forever cemented his place in pop culture history. In a now-iconic image, Theroux was photographed jogging in gray sweatpants, a seemingly innocent image that quickly gained viral attention due to the noticeable bulge in his pants. The photo led to a massive online frenzy, sparking endless memes and speculation.

While many fans saw the image as a humorous and flattering moment, Theroux was less than thrilled about the attention. “I don’t want to say objectified, but it was embarrassing,” he explained candidly. “It’s like having someone yank your shorts down in public. It doesn’t feel great. Anyone who has an unflattering picture taken of them would probably say, ‘Join the club.’”

Theroux went on to say that while the attention might appear to be a compliment, it was far from enjoyable. “It has the appearance of a compliment, but it’s more mortifying than anything else,” he said with a laugh. Despite his discomfort, Theroux has maintained a good sense of humor about the entire situation, recognizing that the internet can be both a platform for praise and a breeding ground for embarrassing moments.

The sweatpants incident, although a source of mortification at the time, is now something Theroux looks back on with a mix of humor and humility. It’s a reminder of the sometimes ridiculous and uncontrollable aspects of fame, and how even the most private moments can be blown up to outrageous proportions in the public eye.

A Career of Creative Growth

Aside from his personal life, Theroux’s career has continued to evolve in exciting ways. From his starring role in The Leftovers to his behind-the-scenes work as a co-writer for Zoolander 2, Theroux has proven himself to be a versatile talent in Hollywood. However, it’s his ability to balance both personal and professional life that continues to impress those around him.

Theroux’s work as a writer, particularly in the world of comedy, has been another avenue of creative expression. His contributions to Zoolander 2 and his past collaborations with Ben Stiller are a testament to his comedic sensibilities. As he continues to evolve as both an actor and writer, Theroux seems to be embracing the changing landscape of Hollywood while staying true to his roots.

The Bigger Picture

Looking back on his life and career, Justin Theroux appears to have found a sense of balance between fame, marriage, and personal growth. His relationship with Jennifer Aniston, despite the challenges that come with public life, seems to be a source of stability and comfort. Their shared interests, like karaoke nights with friends, reflect their ability to find joy in the simple things, no matter how famous they may become.

And as for the infamous sweatpants photo? Theroux’s ability to laugh at the situation demonstrates his self-awareness and resilience in the face of the often absurd world of celebrity. Whether he’s discussing the lessons of marriage or navigating the chaos of public life, Theroux has proven time and again that he’s an open book—one that continues to captivate audiences and fans alike.

In the end, it’s clear that while fame may be fleeting, the lessons and relationships that define us are far more lasting. Theroux’s journey through marriage, fame, and even a viral photo serves as a reminder that it’s the quiet moments of growth and reflection that matter most in the end.