Freddie Prinze Jr. and Sarah Michelle Gellar, a pair who first met on the set of the 1997 horror film "I Know What You Did Last Summer," have candidly shared the key to their enduring 23-year marriage. In a recent interview with Variety, Prinze Jr., 49, and Gellar, 48, highlighted the role of friendship and mutual respect in sustaining their relationship, despite the challenges of Hollywood fame and public scrutiny.
While their paths crossed during the filming of the iconic movie, their connection did not flourish immediately. Prinze Jr. admitted in a 2001 interview with People that the pair "really didn’t dig each other" at first. However, a chance encounter during a gym ride led to a conversation that deepened their bond, eventually leading to a romantic relationship three years later. They announced their engagement that year and married in Mexico the following year, with Gellar being 24 and Prinze Jr. 26 at the time.
As their marriage grew stronger over the years, Prinze Jr. and Gellar emphasized the importance of communication, shared values, and intentional effort in maintaining a lasting relationship. During a 2020 interview with People Now, Gellar recounted how they accidentally went on a first date when a third person didn’t show up, and they decided to stay for dinner instead. The evening turned into a meaningful connection, leading to a long-term commitment that has endured despite the demands of their careers.
Prinze Jr. and Gellar, who also starred in the 2002 film "Scooby-Doo" and its 2004 sequel "Scooby-Doo: Monsters Unleashed," have two children, daughter Charlotte Grace and son Rocky James. Their family life has been a cornerstone of their relationship, with Prinze Jr. expressing his love for his children and Gellar reflecting on the importance of dedication in nurturing their bond.
Speaking with Variety, Prinze Jr. shared how he values their family life, stating that he "just love my kids" and that he "married her for a reason." Gellar, meanwhile, has spoken about the impact of modern societal attitudes on relationships, noting the rise of a "disposable" mindset where people are quick to move on from challenges, instead of investing the effort needed to maintain long-term partnerships.
Despite their public lives, the couple has remained grounded in their commitment to each other and their family. Prinze Jr. is currently starring in the 2025 version of "I Know What You Did Last Summer," a legacy sequel to the first film, while Gellar continues to appear in popular television shows such as "Dexter: Original Sin." Their story serves as a poignant reminder of the power of intentionality in relationships, offering valuable insights into sustaining a lasting marriage in the face of modern challenges.