Dolph Lundgren defends 39-year age-gap marriage, cites life philosophy amid cancer battle and vodka launch

Dolph Lundgren is pushing back against critics of his 39-year-age-gap marriage, telling Fox News Digital that age is a number and that the passage of time will not define the quality of his relationship. The 68-year-old actor discussed his marriage to Emma Krokdal while promoting his new vodka line, Hard Cut Vodka, and addressed criticism from public observers during a recent appearance at A Throwback Party in Puzzle, West Hollywood. "You always get haters and people say negative things about you if you’re in the public eye," he said, adding, "To me, age is just a number. It doesn’t really matter. I mean we’re all gonna be dead a hundred years from now — most of us anyway — and nothing will matter." He emphasized that the core issue is choosing a partner with whom one can have a meaningful life together, saying, "All that matters is that you enjoy your life, you enjoy your partner. And I think the choice of partner is one of the most important choices you can make in life. I’ve realized that. And I think Emma is the best choice for me, and I don’t care what people say."

In a separate conversation with Fox News Digital, Krokdal voiced a similar sentiment, describing their relationship as "so special because we come from a similar place with a very similar upbringing." She noted that Lundgren hails from Sweden and she from Norway, saying the pair connected early over shared experiences as creative people who can help each other with their respective strengths and weaknesses. She credited Lundgren with helping to turn her husband’s life around as much as he has supported her.

Lundgren has spoken openly about how Emma has influenced his life, including his health journey. He credited her with helping "save my life with the cancer journey and turn my life around." The actor’s cancer trajectory began with a kidney tumor diagnosed in 2015, which was surgically removed, followed by the discovery of new tumors on his liver and kidneys in 2020. Despite a grim prognosis at times, he pursued a second opinion, and in November 2024 he announced he was cancer free. "Going through cancer is a life-changing experience," he said, adding that he is now in No Evidence of Disease, or NED, for what he described as about three years. He described the process as gradual and said that patients often remain in fight-or-flight mode even when a remission appears established.

Survivorship work has shaped his outlook. To adjust to a new baseline, Lundgren described engaging in survivorship therapy and adopting a more holistic approach to health. He said he aims to be kinder to his body and mind, noting that he previously pushed through physically strenuous stunts and fights in films and martial arts that took a toll. "Every day is a blessing, and you’re grateful for being here and for all the wonderful things my life has given me," he added. "So yeah, it does change your outlook on life, for sure." He also emphasized rest, better nutrition, and recognizing what he has already accomplished, rather than chasing every demand of an action career.

The actor reflected on one career milestone that helped him reach a different place professionally and personally: the role that launched him to fame in Rocky IV. He recalled that stepping into the arena of the iconic film was both terrifying and exhilarating, noting that the experience changed his life. "It was scary and exciting at the same time, tremendous. It changed my life. I walked into a theater, you know, being but virtually unknown, and 90 minutes later I walked out and everybody was taking pictures of me like this. It took me about five years to recover. So I think, yeah, on all levels it was a great experience."

As part of his broader career arc, Lundgren spoke about his growing business interests, including the March 2025 launch of Hard Cut Vodka. He described the spirit as "hard on the outside and kind of soft and mushy on the inside," arguing that the product stands apart because it tastes smoother and doesn’t leave a harsh sensation in the back of the throat, even at 90 proof. "The main thing is we have a great product, everybody loves it. And then I think the presentation is a little tougher. It’s a little more bada– than the other vodkas," he said with characteristic blunt humor. The brand’s profile has been cultivated to align with Lundgren’s action-hero image, with Krokdal noting that the vodka aims to feel nostalgic and energizing rather than a plain, ordinary spirit.

Krokdal has described their shared journey and the couple’s approach to fame and personal life as grounded in mutual respect and resilience. She said the lifestyle changes associated with building a life together—especially one that includes public attention—require effort but are ultimately rewarding. Lundgren emphasized the value of focusing on what matters: the health of the relationship and the person beside him. He noted that while public reaction often accompanies such a large age gap, his priority is the life he is building with his partner and the opportunities it has created for both of them.

The actor also highlighted a long-standing friendship with Sylvester Stallone, who he admired during the making of Rocky IV and who has remained a supportive figure through his cancer battle. Lundgren described Stallone as a mentor who helped shape his early career and, more recently, his approach to resilience and gratitude. "He’s a special guy, very, very talented, and I love him," Lundgren said, underscoring the enduring bond between the two action movie icons.

In discussing his creative ventures, Lundgren contrasted his post-cancer life with the intense work demands of his youth while continuing to pursue roles and projects that challenge him. He expressed optimism about the future, noting that his cancer journey has reframed how he evaluates risk, performance, and personal happiness. The star has also leaned into media and public appearances that allow him to share his story, including interviews that blend personal milestones with professional updates such as the rollout of Hard Cut Vodka.

as the interview wrapped, the conversation anchored itself in the idea that life’s most meaningful moments come from the people who stand with you through both triumphs and trials. Lundgren’s public remarks about his marriage, his health, and his business ventures collectively paint a portrait of a man who remains deeply committed to living deliberately, honoring his relationships, and pursuing new ventures with a practical, no-nonsense mindset.

In a softer coda to the discussion, Krokdal shared a personal note through social media that reflected the couple’s rapport and affection. She posted a message that celebrated the bond they share, aligning with the broader theme of a life well-lived despite public scrutiny. The timing of the remarks, in tandem with Lundgren’s continued work in film, business, and wellness advocacy, underscores a gradual shift in how the star engages with fans and critics alike.

Alongside promoting Hard Cut Vodka, Lundgren remains committed to the idea that longevity in both health and relationships requires ongoing attention, patience, and gratitude. As he continues to balance his demanding acting schedule with entrepreneurial endeavors, his message to fans is clear: focus on what matters, cherish your people, and approach each day with a sense of purpose and resilience.

In the closing moments of his conversation, Lundgren reiterated a central premise that has guided him through his career and personal life: life is about the people who stand by you, the choices you make together, and the humility to grow from life’s trials. With Emma by his side, and a public life that demands both candor and discretion, he continues to navigate the balance between fame, family, and forward momentum. The couple’s path—marked by a long-standing partnership, a bold business venture, and a renewed sense of purpose—reflects a broader narrative around age, resilience, and the evolving nature of celebrity culture in the modern era.