A newly revealed letter between Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, stars of *I Love Lucy*, offers fans a more intimate look into their complicated romance. After two decades of marriage, their love story, marked by deep emotions, insecurity, and a lasting affection, is detailed in a book titled *Lucy and Desi: Love Letters*.
This letter, published on November 4, features correspondence primarily from World War II, shortly after their wedding. Some earlier notes indicate that their relationship was much more nuanced than simply Hollywood glitz and glamour. Their marriage was famously tumultuous, with Ball embroiled in several affairs, leading to frequent separations before eventually officially parting ways in 1960.
The couple’s private writings reveal themes of jealousy, trust, and redemption that shaped their on-screen chemistry and their real-life interactions.
October 27, 1940
In one early letter, Ball expressed her fears regarding Arnaz’s loyalty while he was on tour. She wrote, “Digi Arnaz, you don’t answer any of my letters! Are you going to toss them aside and forget everything I said? I’m really trying to get this telegram to you, and honestly, if I don’t hear back, I’m going to feel pretty miserable tonight.”
She urged him to steer clear of temptations: “Don’t risk precious months with those awful women I can’t stand—really, it’s not worth it. Are you taking care of yourself? I wish I could truly make you happy without having to count the minutes together like someone on death row.”
Ball also sought more openness from Arnaz about his life: “No—I can’t say goodbye just yet. I think we might have a bit more time. So, tell me—could you be clearer in your next letter? Share what you really feel for me while you’re flying around New York. Just… tell me what’s in your heart for a day—what do you think about us? I have to go, but I’m sending you all my love.”
June 7, 1943
By 1943, trust issues were still a significant hurdle for the couple. Ball committed to Catholic Catechism classes in preparation for their second marriage, which would take place formally on June 19, 1949. In another heartfelt letter, she noted, “I have something really significant to ask of you. If you don’t hear back from me before this letter reaches you, please respond. I’m starting a two-week course with Father English. Just, for two weeks, please try to clear your mind of any superstition.”
She pleaded, “Don’t be mad at me for just two weeks. Trust me, even if it’s hard. It’s crucial and it would mean everything. After that, if you want to distrust me again, you can, but please just give me this fresh start.”
From Anza Camp, June 11, 1943
In response, Arnaz wrote back with warmth and gratitude, expressing pride in Ball’s commitment: “I’m so proud of you for following Father English’s guidance and being ready to marry again. Will you marry me once more? I love you even more than I did the first time, and I’m excited about our future together.”
Despite repeated vows, however, their relationship ultimately ended in divorce in 1960 after two decades. Following their split, Ball married comedian Gary Morton in 1961, while Arnaz wed Edith “Edie” Mac Hirsch in 1963.
