Bette Midler's first kiss was "unforgettable".
The 69-year-old star's first smooth might have taken place over 50 years ago, but it's still etched on her memory. She can vividly recall when it happened and how surprised she was.
"A guy in high school called Rick Goss. He'd wear polo shirts with little penguins on them. I was 13 or 14. I couldn't figure out why he'd picked on me," she told British magazine Hello! "He was double my height. But I figured, in for a penny, in for a pound. And yep, it was unforgettable."
Bette did move on from Rick and is now happily married to Martin von Haselberg. They tied the knot almost 30 years ago but the singer insists there is no secret to their union, as they have found things as hard as the next couple.
"I count on Martin a lot. He's very wise. Sometimes, when I don't know which way to turn, he explains things to me," she explained. "He's been very helpful to me, both as a husband and a mentor. He's just been great, a real partner. But marriage isn't easy. You have to persevere. And each of you should have tremendous powers of forgiveness. You also have to bend over backwards to see the other person's point of view - and then be willing to compromise."
The pair also take their vows very seriously, another of Bette's tips for a strong marriage, and she is unequivocal when it comes to cheating.
"Absolutely. I've never cheated," she said. "I don't think he has, either. We have a life together that's very cosy in its way. It's what we both like. We suit each other."
