The connection between Cameron Diaz and Benji Madden remains strong. Their journey began when they met at an event in May 2014, leading to a romantic relationship that progressed rapidly.
Just seven months after starting to date, the couple became engaged, culminating in their wedding in January 2015. They have since embraced parenthood, welcoming their daughter, Raddix Madden, in December 2019, followed by the birth of their son, Cardinal Madden, in 2024.
From a whirlwind romance to a beautiful family, their bond grows stronger each day (@camerondiaz/Instagram)
Throughout their marriage, the star of The Holiday has expressed her admiration for Madden and the health of their relationship during various interviews.
Diaz conveyed her appreciation for Madden’s influence on her self-worth in a March 2022 episode of Michelle Visage’s Rule Breakers podcast.
“He’s really taught me to value myself a lot more,” she reflected. She emphasized the commitment she feels in their marriage: “I learned how to really go all in. Nothing else comes before this. It’s not hard to do because [our marriage is] the most valuable thing I have.”
May 2014: Beginning of Their Romance
Their relationship commenced at an event where Diaz was introduced to Madden through his twin brother, Joel, and sister-in-law, Nicole Richie.
In a 2021 interview on Anna Faris Is Unqualified, Diaz recounted the moment they met, explaining that they were in the same room but had never officially been introduced. “I was, like, ‘How come I didn’t see him before?'” she wondered.
It was Richie who facilitated their introduction, and in July 2014, she humorously claimed responsibility for the match on Watch What Happens Live, stating, “I approve of anything that’s going to make Benji happy.”
August 2014: Madden Reflects on His Happiness
A few months into their relationship, Madden shared his feelings with PEOPLE, expressing contentment. “I’m really happy right now,” he said, acknowledging the positive influence Diaz had on his music. “It’s same for any man, no matter what they do. It drives you,” he noted.
December 2014: Engagement Announcement
Their engagement was confirmed in December 2014, following months of speculation. A friend of Madden revealed to PEOPLE that the proposal occurred a few nights prior, indicating that he had sought Diaz’s family’s blessing before asking for her hand. “Her mom is a fan of him as well and gave her blessing,” the source added.
January 2015: Their Wedding Day
The couple exchanged vows in a private ceremony at their Beverly Hills home, celebrated with a beautifully decorated tent adorned with white flowers and candles. Before the wedding, they hosted a rehearsal dinner for close friends, including Drew Barrymore.
A source shared with PEOPLE that “getting married is the next step when you are totally in love and comfortable with someone,” emphasizing that Diaz had found true happiness.
May 2016: Personal Growth Through Marriage
During a 2016 appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Diaz reflected on how her union with Madden contributed to her personal development. “I do think that marriage, when you can grow with someone, it’s very important,” she remarked.
When asked about her favorite aspect of marriage, she responded, “I just learned so much about myself.” Diaz humorously noted the irony of her newfound self-awareness: “I learned all these things about myself that I wish I didn’t know.
And I wouldn’t have learned them if I didn’t get married. So it’s a double-edged sword.” She affectionately revealed that she has several nicknames for Madden, jokingly saying, “I call him a lot of names,” and detailing her playful evolution from “baby” to simply “uh.”
June 2017: Reflecting on Timing
At a panel moderated by Gwyneth Paltrow at the “In Goop Health” wellness summit, Diaz addressed why she waited until 42 to marry. She explained, “I just hadn’t met my husband,” highlighting the distinct difference between boyfriends and a life partner.
Diaz emphasized that Madden stands out because “he’s just my partner in life, in everything.” She credited him with providing the support and courage needed to explore her true self, stating, “I feel so lucky.”
August 30, 2017: Birthday Love
To celebrate Diaz’s 45th birthday, Madden shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, posting a photo of them enjoying a boat ride. “Happy Birthday to my Beautiful Wife. I feel like I am the LUCKIEST guy ALIVE,” he expressed, further detailing the depth and compassion she brings to his life.
December 2019: Welcoming Their First Child
On December 30, 2019, Diaz and Madden revealed the joyful news of their daughter, Raddix Madden’s, birth in Los Angeles. They shared their excitement on Instagram, stating, “We are so happy, blessed and grateful to begin this new decade.”
They expressed a desire to protect their daughter’s privacy while celebrating her cuteness. A source shared with PEOPLE that the couple had hoped to expand their family since their wedding. “Cameron really wanted to be a mom,” the insider noted, affirming their wish for a baby.
April 2020: Joys of Parenthood
During an Instagram Live with Katherine Power, Diaz discussed the joys of motherhood, calling it “the best, best, best part of my life.” She expressed gratitude for sharing this experience with Madden, stating, “We’re just having the best time.”
Their journey from dating to parenthood is filled with love and admiration (@benjaminmadden/Instagram)
Diaz shared insights into their nightly routine, highlighting Madden’s parenting skills and her own culinary endeavors after putting Raddix to bed.
April 23, 2020: Celebrating Marriage
Despite the couple’s preference for privacy, Diaz spoke candidly about her marriage during a Makeup & Friends episode. “I love being married,” she affirmed, describing her partnership with Madden as the most important aspect of her life. She also detailed their contrasting sleep schedules, which allow them to support each other in parenting.
July 2020: Parenthood Reflections
During an interview on The Tonight Show With Jimmy Fallon, Diaz characterized her daughter as “the best thing that ever happened” to both her and Madden, sharing the joys of watching their child grow and develop daily.
January 5, 2022: Anniversary Celebration
In January 2022, Diaz and Madden marked their seventh wedding anniversary. Madden shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, expressing gratitude for their happy and peaceful life together. Diaz responded, affirming her love for him and reflecting on their deep connection.
March 9, 2022: Personal Growth Insights
On Michelle Visage’s Rule Breakers podcast, Diaz credited Madden with helping her embrace her true self. “He’s really taught me to value myself a lot more,” she noted, emphasizing the importance of their marriage and the commitment she feels toward it.
June 2022: Return to Acting with Support
When Diaz announced her return to acting in Netflix’s Back in Action, a source revealed that Madden was a motivator in her decision to unretire. Diaz felt a mix of excitement and nervousness as she prepared for her comeback.
August 2022: A Milestone Celebration
Diaz celebrated her 50th birthday in style, hosting a lavish party at Nobu in Malibu with a star-studded guest list. Sources described her as joyful and engaged during the festivities, emphasizing her affection for Madden and her friends.
Later, Diaz recounted how Madden played a pivotal role in organizing the elaborate celebration, highlighting his love for festivities.
