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Compatibility
Cancer Ox and Scorpio Rat

The best of the best! This incredible match unites the most harmonious energy from the Western (firstwest and secondwest) and Eastern (firsteast and secondeast) zodiacs.

Western Zodiac sign, Cancer
Western Zodiac sign, Scorpio

Western Zodiac

Cancer and Scorpio

Compatibility overview

These two kindred signs form one of the most respected combinations in the Western zodiac. When firstwest meets secondwest, a strong likelihood of shared interests combines with deeply compatible ways of looking at the world. The result is an ideal foundation for familial, professional, and intimate relationships.

Cancer and Scorpio - Relationship Horoscope

Read more about the CANCER and SCORPIO zodiac signs...

Read more about the CANCER OX and SCORPIO RAT combined zodiac signs...

Both the Western and Chinese zodiacs have a prized place for Trine sign combinations. Cancer and Scorpio, four steps apart on the Western zodiac wheel, form one of these prized matches.

Part of the recipe for harmony between these two signs arises from their shared element of Water. Water contributes essential fluidity and depth to these sensitive, empathic signs. Cancer and Scorpio are both highly attuned to the feelings of others. This is especially so for Cancer, the most impressionable and reactive of all the signs, but strong-willed Scorpio is also deceptively porous—Scorpio may sometimes sting instead of soothe, but they rarely miss their mark. In other company, the responsiveness of Cancer and Scorpio can make them feel crowded or overborne. Imagine their joy, then, when they discover an equally aware, responsive soul. These two will tend to communicate in ways beyond words from the very beginning, sensing a freedom to be completely themselves, as well as a shared respect for interior reflection and peace. Cancer’s love of home, and their instinct to cultivate an independent, dream-filled existence, can provide much-needed calmness to the life of the intense, powerful Scorpio. Scorpio’s uniquely driven, impactful nature gives Cancer confidence and security, while at the same time creating ample space for Cancer to truly understand their own nature in a way they rarely experience with other signs.

The respective modalities here are also marvellously compatible. Cancer is a Cardinal sign, embodying the pure energy of new possibilities and unexplored horizons, while Scorpio’s Fixed character brings the desire for productivity and tangible, real-world accomplishments. Collaborations are thus not only mutually pleasurable and admiring, but also destined to be completed and successful.

There may be no certainty in relationships, but on the Western side, no combination is more conducive to a rewarding and lasting connection than that between Cancer and Scorpio.

Celebrity Cancer/Scorpio Pairings*

*Click on the names to see both Western and Chinese zodiac matches for that pairing.

King Charles III and Camilla, Queen Consort
King Charles III and Camilla, Queen Consort (click for attribution/s)

Camilla, Queen Consort (7/17/1947, Cancer Pig), King Charles III (11/14/1948, Scorpio Rat) : King Charles III and his wife the Queen Consort have known each other since the 1970s. They were widely rumored to be having an affair during Charles' marriage to Princess Diana Spencer, and married in 2005. Charles has described: "It’s always marvelous to have somebody who, you know, you feel understands and wants to encourage. Although she certainly pokes fun if I get too serious about things. And all that helps."

George W. Bush (7/6/1946, Cancer Dog), Laura Bush (11/4/1946, Scorpio Dog) : The 43rd US President and First Lady have been married since 1977 and have two children. They became engaged after three months of dating. Though they have rarely discussed their relationship in public, in a 2021 interview with his daughter Laura, George W. Bush said: "You should’ve seen your mom [when we met]. Those blue eyes, oh my god...I’ve done a lot of things in my life. And your mom has enabled me to do so in many ways."

Liv Tyler and Joaquin Phoenix
Liv Tyler and Joaquin Phoenix (click for attribution/s)

Liv Tyler (7/1/1977), Cancer Snake), Joaquin Phoenix (10/28/1974, Scorpio Tiger) : The two actors dated for three years after they started dating while co-starring in Inventing the Abbotts (1997). Phoenix described: "I’m a great believer in people coming into your life, and you into theirs, for a reason. And I know that when Liv and I met, it was for a reason — I really needed her and she really needed me. And at a certain point, I think we stopped evolving with each other, stopped progressing, and made a very mature decision to move on, even though there was still a great love there. There’s no one gossipy thing that I can share. I’m thankful that we had the time we had."

Paul Thomas Anderson (6/26/1970, Cancer Dog), Jonny Greenwood (11/5/1971, Scorpio Pig) : The director and composer have collaborated four times, on the films There Will Be Blood (2007), The Master (2012), Inherent Vice (2014), and Phantom Thread (2017). Greenwood has described: "[Y]ou should know that whenever you’re in the edit [room] with Paul he is — without exception — laughing throughout...He’s the whole package — scripts, cinematography, storytelling, humor, romance, oddness, and genuity. There’s no one like him: Perhaps there’s people who do the individual skills as well — or better— but no one has the full deck like Paul. I’m glad he’s terrible at playing musical instruments; there’s a job left for me."

Tobey Maguire and Leonardo DiCaprio
Tobey Maguire and Leonardo DiCaprio (click for attribution/s)

Tobey Maguire (6/27/1975, Cancer Rabbit), Leonardo DiCaprio (11/11/1974, Scorpio Tiger) : The two actors have been close friends since they were teenagers. They have also worked together on several occasions, including co-starring in The Great Gatsby (2013). Maguire has described: "[Leo and I] are like any other buddies. There's a lot of laughing and chatting between us. We enjoy doing a lot of things we have in common, like basketball. We like to play and talk about basketball.."

Carly Simon (6/25/1945, Cancer Rooster), Mike Nichols (11/6/1931, Scorpio Sheep) : The singer/songwriter and film director were friends who collaborated extensively, including on the films Working Girl (1988), Heartburn (1986), and Postcards from the Edge (1990). After Nichols died in 2014, Simon wrote: "[Nichols] was the biggest influence in my adult life. Like a father or older brother to me. Giving me advice and when I didn’t take it, he’d smile the most understanding smile and say: 'You see, I warned you!!!' It was never mean or patronizing. His charm and wit are famous. I saw him so many times in the flesh, just sitting still, not knowing he was being watched. I felt his deep thoughts and observations without knowing what they were specifically."

Joanne Tucker and Adam Driver
Joanne Tucker and Adam Driver (click for attribution/s)

Joanne Tucker (6/26/1982, Cancer Dog), Adam Driver (11/19/1983, Scorpio Pig) : The two actors were a longtime couple before they married in 2013. As well as acting together several times, they co-founded the organization Arts in the Armed Forces in 2006. Their first child was born in secret, with Driver explaining, "My job is to be a spy — to be in public and live life and have experience. But, when you feel like you’re the focus, it’s really hard to do that." In a monologue on SNL in 2020, Driver said to laughter: "I’m a husband and a father. It’s in that order though. I’ve been very clear with my son about that. He’s second to everything."

Lisa Rinner (7/11/1963, Cancer Rabbit), Harry Hamlin (10/30/1951, Scorpio Rabbit) : The two actors married in 1997 and have two children. They have also collaborated on multiple occasions, including on the reality TV series, Harry Loves Lisa (2010). Rinner has described: "We are crazy about each other, and you can't create that, you can't make it — it either is, or it isn't … I think you either really dig somebody, or you don't. And I'm so blessed, we are so blessed that that happened for us."

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Chinese Zodiac sign, the Ox
Chinese Zodiac sign, the Rat

Chinese Zodiac

Ox and Rat

Compatibility overview

This is one of the most cherished matches in all of Eastern astrology. There may be no perfection in human relationships, but the combination of the firsteast and the secondeast attracts the most compatible energy there is. In professional, familial, or intimate contexts, these two natural confidants and allies can be expected to forge a powerful and dependable bond.

Ox and Rat - Relationship Horoscope

Read more about the OX and RAT zodiac signs...

Read more about the CANCER OX and SCORPIO RAT combined zodiac signs...

Compatibility in the Eastern zodiac depends mainly on the four Trine Families. While members of the same family share very harmonious energy, each sign also enjoys a revered Soulmate connection with one sign from their kindred Trine Family. The powerful leader, the Ox, and the clever strategist, the Rat, share this Soulmate connection. In fact, this is probably the most legendary of all the Soulmate matches—after all, in the Jade Emperor's race that decided the order of the signs, the Rat achieved victory by hiding in the ear of the Ox.

Early contacts between these two will likely establish a bedrock of excitement and resolve. The Ox is incredibly strong and determined. Their dominant nature and near-infinite capacity for effective hard work appeal immediately to the strategic and socially-minded Rat. The Rat, meanwhile, is as clever as the day is long. The Ox will likely recognize quickly what sage advice the Rat can provide, while at the same time being hopelessly seduced by the Rat's delightful compliments and winning personality. Soon, these two will discover the secret that lies at the heart of their great compatibility. For these signs are both intensely motivated by social unity, whether in the home or professional contexts. The Ox may be a born leader, but they know in their bones the importance of a trustworthy, dedicated team. The Rat's instinctive command of social dynamics is simply wasted without a community to coordinate towards success.

Hence these two are natural collaborators, a brilliant pairing in business or family. Traits that may infuriate other signs will for the most part not even register as problems. The Rat can usually navigate the Ox's stubborn, opinionated nature with effortless humor and shrewd foresight. The Ox may similarly laugh off the Rat's secretive wiles and occasional manipulation, given an unerring trust that the Rat has their best interests at heart. The only real danger for this match is if life gets in the way. Soulmate energy can be as demanding as it is rich. If either party is unable to devote themselves completely to this alliance, both may suffer grave misery. Fortunately, this combination is capable of extraordinary devotion and patience, and most challenges will prove surmountable. If these two can commit to their shared vision, then in any context their union is likely to prove as strong, rewarding, and effective as any in the Eastern zodiac.

Celebrity Ox/Rat Pairings*

*Click on the names to see both Western and Chinese zodiac matches for that pairing.

Paul Newman and Robert Redford
Paul Newman and Robert Redford (click for attribution/s)

Robert Redford (8/18/1936, Leo Rat), Paul Newman (1/26/1925, Aquarius Ox) : The celebrated actors shared memorable on-screen chemistry in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and The Sting, and they became lifelong friends. Redford has been quoted as saying, "I think what we found out over time was that the things that made us friends were — had a lot to do with values, what we saw as valuable in society."

Billy Crystal (3/14/1948, Pisces Rat), Janice Crystal (3/16/1949, Pisces Ox) : Both actors and producers, Billy and Janice Crystal were high school sweethearts who have been married for over 50 years. They have two children and are grandparents. Reflecting on their relationship, Billy Crystal commented: "We’ve grown together, we’ve parented together, we’ve grandparented together. I’m lucky that I found the person when I was 18." On another occasion, he said, "My parents always looked like they loved being together […] that’s how my wife and I are."

Samuel L. Jackson and LaTanya Richardson Jackson
Samuel L. Jackson and LaTanya Richardson Jackson (click for attribution/s)

Samuel L. Jackson (12/21/1948, Sagittarius Rat), LaTanya Richardson Jackson (10/21/1949, Libra Ox) : The two actors have been married for over 50 years and have a daughter together. Asked in a joint interview about about whether they had ever had to choose between being true to themselves and professional opportunity, Samuel L. Jackson responded, "We don’t compromise who we are to do the things we do. It’s imperative that we be who we are. It’s not like we’ve never heard: 'You’ll never work in this town again.'" To which LaTanya Jackson responded, laughing, "Well you have – I haven’t!"

Kathryn Reed Altman (6/2/1924, Gemini Rat), Robert Altman (2/20/1925, Pisces Ox) : The acclaimed director and actor-turned-archivist were married from 1959 until Altman's death in 2006. They had two children together as well as children from previous marriages. Recounting their first meeting, Reed described, "When we were introduced, [Altman] didn’t say hello. He just said, 'How are your morals?' And I said: 'A little shaky. How are yours?' That was the beginning."

Michael J. Fox and Tracy Pollan
Michael J. Fox and Tracy Pollan (click for attribution/s)

Tracy Pollan (6/22/1960, Cancer Rat), Michael J. Fox (6/9/1961, Gemini Ox) : The two actors met on the set of Family Ties in 1985. They married in 1988 and have four children together. Celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary, Pollan was asked what she thought was the key to a successful marriage. She answered, "Just give each other the benefit of the doubt. He assumes I’m doing the best I can."

Marlon Brando (4/3/1924, Aries Rat), Jack Nicholson (4/22/1937, Taurus Ox) : The two actors—both often included among the best Hollywood has ever produced—were real-life neighbours for thirty years. In a tribute after Brando's death in 2004, Nicholson described how the star of On the Waterfront and The Godfather had "been my idol all of my professional life". Nicholson wrote: "I treasured the conversations I had with [Brando]. He’s a brilliant man with a very eclectic mind. He was brutally honest, with very unusual insights into just about everything. He was very funny, too. Brando’s favorite holiday was April Fools’ Day, and, trust me, the guy pulled a couple of real crackerjacks at my expense."

Anna Kendrick and Aubrey Plaza
Anna Kendrick and Aubrey Plaza (click for attribution/s)

Aubrey Plaza (6/26/1984, Cancer Rat), Anna Kendrick (8/9/1985, Leo Ox) : The two actors met on the set of Scott Pilgrim vs the World and have become close friends who holiday together and exchange affectionate posts online. In an interview, Plaza quipped, "Hmm, hopefully when I’m 70, Anna Kendrick and I will have our multicam sitcom, exactly like The Golden Girls. We’ll just be two fast-talking sexual ladies hitting on younger guys."

Jennie Garth (4/3/1972, Aries Rat), Tori Spelling (5/16/1973, Taurus Ox) : These two actors first met on the set of Beverley Hills 90210 in 1990 and have been best friends ever since. Spelling once described Garth as "one of the most spectacular women and human beings" she knows, and while promoting their short-lived detective series, Mystery Girls, frequently referred to Garth as her "partner in crime for life".


Combined Relationship Horoscope

Final Words

This is as beneficial as astrological energy can be for a relationship. In the Western zodiac, it has been believed for millenia that the Trine energy between firstwest and secondwest is conducive to mutual happiness and success. For probably even longer, the Soulmate connection between firsteast and secondeast has been prized as one of the most favourable relationships imaginable. This is truly a match for the ages!

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