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Ed Harris and his wife, actress Amy Madigan, have endured a life-changing event after losing their home in the recent California wildfires.
The 74-year-old Westworld star, known for his stoic presence on screen, is facing this personal challenge with remarkable strength and perspective.
While still coming to with the loss, Harris remains focused on what truly matters-living in the present, embracing love, and accepting from those around him.
In an exclusive conversation with PEOPLE, Harris shared his thoughts on the emotional toll of the wildfire disaster and how he and Madigan are navigating their way forward.
For Harris, the experience of losing his home has reinforced the importance of taking life one day at a time.
"We lost our house in the fires, so I've got some things along those lines," he itted, explaining why he has no immediate plans to return to work. "We're not the only ones, that's for sure. So we're doing okay."
Despite the overwhelming loss, Harris remains grounded in his approach to life.
"It's a great exercise in living day to day and staying in the moment, because the past is gone in a certain way," he shared. "So you really try to just deal with every day, like a new day, moment to moment, do what you've got to do."
Beyond personal resilience, Harris acknowledges the importance of leaning on friends and loved ones during difficult times.
"Love your friends and accept the love and concern of others and get on with it," he stated, emphasizing how crucial it is to allow others to offer in moments of hardship.
A Lesson in Love and Communication
Harris, much like his character in My Dead Friend Zoe-a closed-off army veteran-its that opening up hasn't always come naturally to him. However, his relationship with Madigan transformed his perspective on communication.
"When we first met, she said, 'Ed, you've got to talk to me and let me know what's going on with you,'" Harris recalled. "And I was one of those guys that's like, 'What do you mean? I'm here and I love you. Why do I have to tell you what I'm feeling?'"
Madigan's encouragement helped Harris understand the importance of being emotionally present. "She kind of helped me realize that I have a certain responsibility as a human, being married to her, to open up and be present."
After nearly 42 years together, their relationship remains deeply rooted in trust and shared ion-not just for each other, but also for their craft.
"We both really enjoy what we do and it's really fun to work together," Harris said, reflecting on their multiple collaborations, including stage plays and their work in Pollock.
"It's because you know each other, you can talk about the work, collaborate, ask each other questions and penetrate the material together," he explained. "You trust and love each other, and it's fun to be together doing what you love."
Even as he continues to process the loss of his home, Harris remains grateful for the life he has built with Madigan. Through this difficult time, he is focusing on resilience, connection, and the simple yet powerful act of moving forward-one day at a time.