Dolph Lundgren defends 39-year age-gap marriage, discusses cancer journey and new vodka brand
The actor says age is a number, credits his wife Emma Krokdal for support through cancer, and promotes Hard Cut Vodka launched earlier this year.
Dolph Lundgren is pushing back against critics of his 39-year age-gap marriage to Emma Krokdal, saying in interviews with Fox News Digital that age is “just a number” and that people in the public eye should not let haters define their lives. Speaking at a West Hollywood event, Lundgren said: “You always get haters and people say negative things about you if you’re in the public eye. 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 added that the only thing that matters is enjoying life and choosing the right partner, calling Emma “the best choice for me,” and making clear he “doesn’t care what people say.”
In a separate interview, Emma Krokdal described their relationship as “so special because we come from a similar place with a very similar upbringing,” noting Lundgren’s Swedish roots and her Norwegian background as a bridge between them. She said they are both “creative people” and can help each other play to their strengths. Lundgren has also credited Krokdal with supporting him through a cancer journey, saying she helped “save my life” during treatment. He was first diagnosed with a kidney tumor in 2015; doctors later found tumors on his liver and kidneys in 2020. After a grim prognosis, Lundgren pursued a second opinion and announced in November 2024 that he was cancer free, saying he is now No Evidence of Disease, or NED, for about three years. Going through survivorship therapy, he said he has adopted a new outlook and works to reset his baseline every day. “Going through cancer is a life-changing experience,” he said, noting that life afterward is about being grateful and mindful of both physical and emotional health. “Every day is a blessing, and you’re grateful for being here and for all the wonderful things my life has given me.”
Lundgren has also embraced changes in how he treats his body. He described previously ignoring bodily signals during stunts and training, but said he now aims to be kinder to himself, getting proper rest and nutrition and recognizing the need for mental and emotional care. “All that matters is that you enjoy your life, you enjoy your partner.”
The actor also reflected on the 40th anniversary of Rocky IV, noting that the project helped launch his career in a dramatic way. He recalled walking into a theater as an unknown actor and walking out with a new level of recognition that took years to adapt to, calling the experience “great on every level.”
Away from acting, Lundgren has expanded into business with the launch of Hard Cut Vodka in March 2025. He described the spirit as “hard on the outside and kind of soft and mushy on the inside,” asserting that the vodka is smoother than many competitors at 90 proof (45% alcohol). He emphasized that the product itself is strong but approachable, aiming for a high-quality offering with a distinctive, tougher presentation. “We have a great product, everybody loves it,” he said, adding that the branding conveys a tougher edge than other vodkas on the market.
Emma Krokdal weighed in on the brand, saying she hopes the liquor evokes nostalgia and a certain energy. She described the taste as enjoyable and noted that its 90-proof strength provides a noticeable lift without excessive consumption. Her comments underscored a joint effort to position Hard Cut Vodka as a premium, spirited option for social occasions.
The couple has formed a working relationship with longtime collaborator Sylvester Stallone, who served as a mentor during Lundgren’s early breakout and remained supportive during his cancer battle. Lundgren said their friendship evolved from professional guidance to mutual respect, describing Stallone as “a special guy, very, very talented,” whose support has meant a great deal during difficult times.
As Lundgren continues to balance public interest in his personal life with professional and entrepreneurial ventures, he has framed his experiences as a broader message about resilience, gratitude and the importance of health. He remains committed to living life deliberately, focusing on loved ones, and pursuing projects that reflect his values.
