Understanding Sela Ward Husband and the Full Story Behind Their Long-Lasting Marriage
If you’re searching for Sela Ward husband, you’re likely curious about the man who has been by the side of one of Hollywood’s most recognizable actresses for more than three decades. Sela Ward, known for her roles in Sisters, Once and Again, CSI: NY, Graves, and numerous films, has built a career defined by emotional depth, grace, and authenticity. But behind the success and public persona is a deeply grounded personal life—anchored by her marriage to entrepreneur Howard Sherman.
Their relationship is one of Hollywood’s quiet success stories, built on love, stability, shared values, and mutual respect. In an industry known for fast romances and frequent breakups, Sela Ward and her husband offer a refreshing example of lasting partnership. Here’s the full story of who he is, how they met, their family life, and what makes their marriage so enduring.
Who Is Sela Ward?
Before exploring her marriage, it helps to understand Sela Ward’s career and why fans remain so interested in her personal life. Born in Mississippi, Sela Ward began her career as a model before transitioning into acting. She quickly became known for her elegance, emotional intelligence, and commanding screen presence.
Her breakout role came in the 1990s series Sisters, where she won her first Emmy. She later won a second Emmy for her role in the beloved drama Once and Again. Ward also appeared in blockbuster films like The Fugitive, Independence Day: Resurgence, The Guardian, and Gone Girl.
While her acting success brought her fame, Ward has also remained grounded, focusing heavily on her family and philanthropic efforts. This balance between personal and professional life makes people especially curious about the man she married.
Who Is Sela Ward’s Husband?
Sela Ward’s husband is Howard Elliott Sherman, a businessman, entrepreneur, and investment advisor. Born in 1958, Sherman built an impressive career in finance before marrying Ward. He is the founder and CEO of Inventure Holdings, a private investment company based in Los Angeles.
Known for his quiet confidence and strategic mind, Sherman keeps a much lower public profile than his wife. Still, his influence in the business world is significant, and he is often described as highly intelligent, thoughtful, and supportive.
While Sela is in the entertainment industry and Sherman is in finance, their values and life goals align strongly—one of the many reasons their marriage has thrived.
How Sela Ward and Howard Sherman Met
Sela and Howard met in the early 1990s in Los Angeles during a period when both were focusing intensely on their careers. Their connection was immediate, but it wasn’t based on Hollywood glamour or business prestige. Instead, their relationship grew from genuine conversation, emotional compatibility, and shared vision for the future.
They took their relationship slowly, getting to know each other deeply before making long-term commitments. Their grounded, intentional approach helped them build a strong foundation for marriage.
Their Marriage in 1992
Sela Ward and Howard Sherman married on May 23, 1992, in an intimate ceremony surrounded by close friends and family. They were both in their early 30s—a time when they already had a clear understanding of themselves and what they wanted out of life.
Their wedding was elegant and heartfelt, reflecting their personalities rather than Hollywood expectations. Even from the beginning, they prioritized privacy and authenticity over publicity or spectacle.
Over three decades later, their marriage remains strong—a testament to their commitment and shared values.
Their Children and Family Life
Sela Ward and Howard Sherman have two children:
- Austin Ward Sherman (born 1994)
- Anabella Raye Sherman (born 1998)
Family has always been central to Sela and Howard’s lives. They have raised their children with a focus on kindness, integrity, humility, and education. Despite Sela’s fame, the couple worked hard to provide their children with a normal, grounded upbringing.
The family splits time between Los Angeles and their ranch in Mississippi, which they purchased to give their children a more peaceful, nature-filled childhood experience. Sela has often spoken about wanting her kids to have roots outside of Hollywood—something Howard has always fully supported.
Howard Sherman’s Career and Accomplishments
Howard Sherman’s professional life is impressive in its own right. He built a successful investment firm and has been involved in various business ventures over the years. His expertise lies in private equity, strategic investments, and long-term business development.
While he prefers not to be in the spotlight, colleagues describe him as a strategic thinker, a natural leader, and a supportive partner who takes pride not only in his own work but in Sela’s achievements as well.
His ability to maintain a low profile despite his success aligns perfectly with Sela’s preference for balancing public work with private family life.
The Couple’s Philanthropic Work
One of the strongest bonds in Sela and Howard’s marriage is their shared commitment to philanthropy. Together, they founded Hope Village for Children, a residential care facility in Mississippi that provides support, guidance, and services for abused and neglected children.
Hope Village is one of Sela’s most meaningful accomplishments, and Howard played an important role in helping launch and sustain it. Their work in child welfare reflects their shared belief in helping vulnerable populations and giving back to the community.
Their philanthropy also highlights the depth of their partnership—they work together not only as spouses but as collaborators and visionaries.
How They Maintain a Strong Marriage
In an industry filled with fast-paced careers, heavy travel, and public scrutiny, Sela Ward and Howard Sherman have done something few Hollywood couples achieve: they’ve stayed grounded and committed for more than 30 years.
Their enduring bond can be attributed to several factors:
Shared Values
Both prioritize family, humility, and meaningful work over fame or status.
Complementary Personalities
Sela’s emotional intelligence and Howard’s steady, analytical nature complement each other beautifully.
Respect for Privacy
They keep their personal life sacred, avoiding unnecessary press exposure.
Strong Communication
They discuss challenges openly and support each other during difficult seasons.
Long-Term Vision
Both entered marriage with a lifelong commitment mindset, not a temporary one.
Sela Ward’s Reflections on Marriage
In interviews, Sela has expressed deep gratitude for her marriage. She has described Howard as steady, thoughtful, and deeply supportive—a partner who provides emotional grounding while also pushing her to grow.
She has also said that their shared love for family and nature helps them stay connected. Whether they are spending time on their Mississippi ranch or supporting each other’s projects, they always return to their core values.
Why Fans Admire Their Relationship
People remain fascinated with Sela Ward and her husband because their story defies Hollywood stereotypes. They have built a private, loving marriage that has lasted far longer than many celebrity relationships. Their partnership reflects balance, maturity, and mutual respect.
Fans admire them because:
- their marriage is grounded
- they avoid drama and publicity stunts
- they support each other’s careers
- they share philanthropic goals
- they represent stability in a chaotic industry
Their love story is one of substance rather than spectacle.
Final Thought
Now that you know the full story behind Sela Ward husband, it’s clear that Howard Sherman is much more than a businessman married to a celebrity. He is Sela’s partner, co-parent, collaborator, and anchor. Their long-lasting marriage represents devotion, partnership, and a shared commitment to building a meaningful life both inside and outside Hollywood.
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