Lara Flynn Boyle and Jack Nicholson

Lara Flynn Boyle and Jack Nicholson are friendly exes. The Mother, Couch actress, 54, who dated the three-time Oscar winner, 87, on and off for a few years two decades ago, tells PEOPLE they still keep in touch, though she adds they don’t get together: “We’re not hanging out.”

The iconic actor was “a huge part of my life,” she continues. “That is seven years of great times, it’s seven years of wonderful.”

The two were first together from 1999 to 2001 and then were photographed together on vacation in St. Tropez in 2006, months before she met and married her husband, Texas real estate investor and developer Donald Ray Thomas.

Hollywood’s Friendliest Celeb Exes

As for how Nicholson is doing these days, Boyle says he’s “making magic.” Though the One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest actor hasn’t appeared in a movie since 2010’s How Do You Know, Boyle says Nicholson is “never retired.”

“The world of Jack is always here. There’s no retiring for the world of Jack. Never,” she adds cryptically.

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Lara Flynn Boyle’s Relationships Before Nicholson

Prior to dating Nicholson, Boyle was involved with former Twin Peaks co-star Kyle MacLachlan as well as Saturday Night Live alum David Spade. In 2015, Spade told Details, “Nicholson asked Lara Flynn Boyle out in front of me, while we were all smoking a doob somewhere.”

Spade added that Boyle “got mad” because he didn’t tell Nicholson to back down: “I said, ‘I’ve been in this town long enough to know when I’m outranked. You’re either gonna go out with him or you’re not.’ She goes, ‘No way. He’s worse than Trump!’ ”

Boyle, however, says Nicholson did not ask her out in front of Spade. “I think certain people like to embellish that for publicity,” she says. “That never happened. Never happened.”

Lara Flynn Boyle: Life After Nicholson

After her relationship with Nicholson ended, Boyle continued to focus on her acting career. She has appeared in numerous films and television series, maintaining her status as a beloved actress in Hollywood. Despite the ups and downs in her personal life, Boyle has always managed to keep a positive outlook and remain committed to her craft.

Jack Nicholson: A Legacy of Magic

Jack Nicholson, despite his absence from the big screen since 2010, remains a towering figure in Hollywood. Known for his unforgettable performances in films like The Shining, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, and As Good as It Gets, Nicholson’s legacy continues to inspire actors and filmmakers alike. Boyle’s comments about Nicholson “making magic” suggest that his creative spirit is still very much alive.

The Public’s Fascination with Celebrity Relationships

The relationship between Boyle and Nicholson has always intrigued the public. Their dynamic, marked by both passion and respect, is a testament to their strong personal and professional bond. Fans are often captivated by stories of celebrity romances, and the Boyle-Nicholson relationship is no exception.

Maintaining a Friendship Post-Breakup

Boyle and Nicholson’s ability to maintain a friendly relationship after their breakup is admirable. It is not uncommon for celebrity couples to remain on good terms, but the public often hears more about the drama and conflict. Their story is a refreshing reminder that it is possible to part ways amicably and continue to support each other.

The Impact of Hollywood on Personal Relationships

Hollywood relationships are often subject to intense scrutiny and pressure, which can be challenging to navigate. Boyle and Nicholson’s relationship, with its highs and lows, reflects the reality of maintaining personal connections in the spotlight. Their mutual respect and ongoing friendship are a testament to their resilience and maturity.

Boyle’s Perspective on Public Perception

Boyle’s denial of Spade’s embellished story highlights the often misleading narratives that can surround celebrity lives. It serves as a reminder to the public to approach such stories with a critical eye and to understand that not everything reported is a true reflection of events.

Conclusion: A Unique Bond

The relationship between Lara Flynn Boyle and Jack Nicholson is a unique chapter in Hollywood history. Their continued friendship and respect for one another demonstrate that it is possible to maintain a meaningful connection, even after a romantic relationship ends. Their story is one of mutual admiration, creative inspiration, and lasting friendship.