Isabella Rossellini Reflects on Marriage to Martin Scorsese in New Documentary

The new Apple TV+ documentary series, _Mr. Scorsese_, directed by Rebecca Miller, explores the life and career of Oscar-winning filmmaker Martin Scorsese. The series, which spans five episodes, features insights from Scorsese himself, as well as contributions from family members, collaborators, and friends. Among the most notable segments is the reflection of Isabella Rossellini, Scorsese's ex-wife, who discusses their marriage from 1979 to 1982.

People MagazineIsabella Rossellini opens up about marriage to Martin Scorsese

In the third episode of _Mr. Scorsese_, Rossellini, now 73, candidly addresses Scorsese's struggles with anger during their marriage. She clarifies that while Scorsese's explosive outbursts were never directed at her physically, they created a challenging environment. "He could demolish a room... It was like a volcano. It was terrifying," Rossellini recalls. She emphasizes that his anger was often unpredictable, stating, "I don’t even remember why he got so mad. Sometimes it could be a very silly little reason that would make him go over the top."

Isabella Rossellini opens up about marriage to Martin ScorseseDaily MailPeople Magazine

Scorsese, now 82, corroborates Rossellini's observations by reflecting on his own emotional turmoil during this period. He admits to experiencing profound depression while working on _The King of Comedy_, stating, "I never experienced such depression — trying to work, not being able to work." He acknowledges that his personal issues severely impacted his ability to edit the film, leading to a near loss of creative control. Scorsese credits his doctor and medication for helping him navigate this difficult time, revealing, "If it wasn’t for the doctor... I’d be dead."

Isabella Rossellini opens up about marriage to Martin Scorsese

Rossellini suggests that Scorsese's rage may have been intertwined with his creative drive. "I think rage gave him that stamina... to finish the film, because it’s not easy," she explains. This connection between his emotional state and his filmmaking process highlights the complexity of their relationship, as both partners navigated the pressures of Scorsese's burgeoning career during the late 1970s and early 1980s.

Isabella Rossellini opens up about marriage to Martin Scorsese

Scorsese and Rossellini's marriage coincided with the production of two of Scorsese's iconic films: _Raging Bull_ (1980) and _The King of Comedy_ (1982). Their union lasted only three years, ending in divorce in 1982. Scorsese has since been married five times, currently to Helen Morris, while Rossellini was married to Jon Wiedemann from 1983 to 1986.

People Magazine

• “He could demolish a room … It was like a volcano. It was terrifying,” — Isabella Rossellini

Isabella Rossellini opens up about marriage to Martin Scorsese

• “'I never experienced such depression — trying to work, not being able to work, having problems, complaining, getting crazy.” — Martin Scorsese

Daily Mail

• “If it wasn’t for the doctor…” — Martin Scorsese

Isabella Rossellini opens up about marriage to Martin Scorsese

• “I think rage gave him that stamina… to finish the film, because it’s not easy.” — Isabella Rossellini

Isabella Rossellini opens up about marriage to Martin Scorsese

This documentary provides a nuanced look at the personal and professional challenges faced by Martin Scorsese, as well as the impact of his emotional struggles on his relationships, particularly with Isabella Rossellini.

People Magazine