Antonio Banderas says his relationship with ex-wife Melanie Griffith has remained close years after their divorce. In an interview published Aug. 6, he told People that Griffith is “if not my best friend, one of my best friends,” according to E! News.
Banderas and Griffith were married for 18 years before divorcing in 2015. The pair began dating after meeting at the 1989 Oscars and share a daughter, Stella Banderas, who is 29.
The actor said he still enjoys spending time with Griffith when he is in Los Angeles. He described their visits as fun and said they often laugh together, calling that a healthy arrangement for them and for their children.
Banderas also praised Griffith as a mother to her children, saying he has seen them grow into good people. Griffith is also mother to Alexander Bauer, Dakota Johnson and Jesse Johnson from previous relationships.
He said he and Griffith handled their separation honestly and in a positive way, which he believes mattered for both their family and their own lives. Banderas has since been with investment banker Nicole Kimpel, while remaining on good terms with Griffith.
