(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Jeff Bridges embraces rough periods in his marriage as a time to get better acquainted with his wife.

The actor married Susan Geston in 1977, and they have three daughters together. Jeff is often asked the secret to his lengthy union, but insists there is no special way to keep a relationship going. The 61-year-old says love and respect are key to enjoying a special bond with someone, as well as ensuring you never give up on each other.

You have to practice for when you hit those rough patches, because they come, he explained. You take those as opportunities to get even more intimate and find out more about each other, rather than say, Oh, thats where I draw the line!

Jeff won the best actor Oscar this year for his part in Crazy Heart. The prestigious accolade hasnt resulted in him being offered more roles, although it has boosted his life in other areas. The star now feels more able to discuss causes which matter to him in public, which he is grateful for.

The scripts... that really hasnt happened that way. Ive been very lucky that way, Ive had great opportunities, he told British television show Daybreak. But it has enabled me to bring a little more attention to things Im concerned about, like the rainforests and kids in my country not being able to have enough nutritious food. It shook up a bunch of stuff. (C) Cover Media