Dolph Lundgren Reveals His Surprising Secret to a Knockout Marriage

Dolph Lundgren, best known for his iconic role as Ivan Drago in "Rocky IV," seems to have discovered the ultimate playbook for love—hugging it out, literally.

At 67, Lundgren recently tied the knot with 29-year-old Emma Krokdal, and the couple isn't just winning in love—after becoming American citizens in 2024, they’re also partners in business, launching the all-American Hard Cut Vodka (inspired by one of their first dates... talk about mixing business with pleasure).

Lundgren says the secret to his strong marriage is simple: he vows to give his wife ten big hugs a day. In his own words, "I try to get a few before lunch, so I still have some in the bank throughout the day." Not only does this keep things sweet, but he insists it neutralizes most disagreements. Who knew the path to marital bliss was paved with bear hugs and positive vibes?

He credits mutual respect and the old adage "happy wife, happy life" for helping both partners feel valued—even when tempers flare. Lundgren is adamant about steering clear of the classic "recipe for disaster" in Hollywood marriages: being apart for too long. Instead, he and Krokdal work together on everything from vodka branding to film production, ensuring they’re rarely separated. Honestly, if all couples worked this closely, HR departments would probably have a field day.

The two share a love of fitness, which is no surprise given Krokdal’s background as a personal trainer. Their relationship started at a Los Angeles Equinox gym back in 2019, and after popping the question in 2020, they've tackled both life’s highs and lows side by side—including Lundgren’s private battle with cancer, which he announced he had beaten in 2024.

Lundgren’s current fitness routine is a three-part harmony: strength training, cardio (biking, walking, or climbing stairs), and functional floor Pilates. He throws in some martial arts for good measure because, of course, Ivan Drago doesn’t just fade away quietly!

With their vodka venture, Lundgren says he wanted a challenge outside of acting—drawing on his lesser-known background in chemical engineering. He describes the brand as "elegant but tough," much like his Hollywood persona. He’s proud to have built something that feels both all-American and sophisticated—a little like Rocky Balboa in a tuxedo, perhaps?

Lundgren also reflected on his journey from Sweden to the States. After 40 years in America and a stint raising his daughters in Spain, he finally took the oath of citizenship, calling it "emotional" and "big." He’s quick to note that becoming an American isn’t easy—and he believes it shouldn’t be.

Now, with a new wife, a new business, and a new passport, Lundgren is living proof that you can have your vodka and drink it too—just make sure to fit in those ten hugs before noon.