Warren Beatty says Annette Bening, kids are the best thing that ever happened to him

Annette Bening, best actress nominee for her role in "The Kids Are All Right", and husband Warren Beatty arrive at the 83rd Academy Awards in Hollywood, California, February 27, 2011. (Reuters)

When Warren Beatty met Annette Bening there was "no doubt" in his mind "it was time to get married."

Once considered one of Hollywood's most legendary bachelors, Beatty opened up on why his 25-year marriage is the best thing that's ever happened to him.

"The most important thing that’s ever happened — the best thing that’s ever happened to me — was Annette and having four kids," Beatty said Wednesday on the "Today" show.

Warren Beatty denies sleeping with 12,755 women

Beatty, 79, shocked his fans when he finally tied the knot in 1992.

"It didn't really surprise me," he said of settling down. "I always felt I wasn't trying to avoid marriage, I was trying to avoid divorce."

He added, "I had no doubt when I met Annette that it was time to get married."

Nearly 25-years later, the couple have four children: Stephen, 24, Benjamin, 22, Isabel, 19 and Ella, 16.

The veteran actor boasted about his brood but admitted his career choice has made it difficult for them growing up.

"It is a burden, I think, to have two parents that are well-known, so I completely respect their privacy" he said. "I could go on and on and on and on talking about them, because they’re brilliant and fun. But no, I think you have to give them a break, and they have their privacy."