James Marsden considered himself a lucky and privileged guy — until he and his ex-wife Lisa Linde split up.
“Being a white male, you’re born with certain unearned privileges,” he told Men’s Health. “My life hasn’t been filled with sorrow and deep struggle. When the divorce happened, it was the first time I felt I lost my equilibrium.”
The “Westworld” actor married Linde in 2000, but they divorced in 2011 citing irreconcilable differences. They share two children together, a boy and a girl.
“It was scary and sad and made me pull everything into focus,” Marsden said. “I needed to focus on what was important.”
As hard as the experience may have been, there was also a lot to be gained from it.
“I know regrets can be a catalyst for good things,” he said. “Not to talk like a Hallmark card, but it’s true.”
Marsden eventually moved on with Rose Costa, with whom he shares a son. He’s currently dating British singer Edei.