George Clooney, the renowned Hollywood actor, recently shared his gratitude for his children’s affection during an exclusive interview with PEOPLE at the premiere of his upcoming movie, Jay Kelly, at Alice Truly Hall in New York. Clooney, 64, humorously remarked, “I’ve been very lucky to have great family and great friends, and my kids actually like me still.” The actor, who shares 8-year-old twins, Ella and Alexander, with his wife Amal Clooney, made light-hearted jokes about his children’s fondness, stating, “They’re young.”
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Clooney reflected on the contrast between himself and the character he portrays in Jay Kelly, drawing parallels and distinctions between their lives. He shared, “We have the same hair and we’re the same height,” highlighting the similarities, before adding, “There [aren’t] that many similarities in a weird way, because he’s a guy who’s just so sad about his career and his life, because he didn’t have friends and family.” In contrast to the movie character who surrounded himself with paid acquaintances, Clooney expressed his gratitude for having genuine relationships without needing to pay for them.
The actor and his wife, Amal Clooney, intentionally keep their children, Alexander and Ella, out of the public eye to maintain their privacy. Clooney, known for his roles in films like Ocean’s Eleven, provided a rare glimpse into his parenting approach during an appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. He shared an anecdote about teaching his son, Alexander, a valuable lesson in sportsmanship through chess tournaments, emphasizing the importance of graciousness in both winning and losing.
In another candid moment, Clooney disclosed his children’s musical preferences and their limited knowledge of movie icons. During the 2025 Tony Awards, he mentioned that his twins are more interested in contemporary artists like Taylor Swift than classic movie stars. Despite living in a household frequented by Hollywood legends like Robert DeNiro, Ella and Alexander remain unaware of these icons, much to their father’s amusement.
George Clooney’s openness about his family life provides a charming insight into his role as a doting father and husband. While known for his illustrious acting career and humanitarian efforts, Clooney’s genuine affection for his children shines through in his anecdotes and interactions. The actor’s ability to balance his public persona with his private family life exemplifies his devotion to both his craft and his loved ones, a trait that resonates with fans and admirers worldwide.
As George Clooney continues to captivate audiences with his on-screen performances and philanthropic work, his endearing anecdotes about parenting and family dynamics serve as a reminder of the priorities that ground him amidst the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. Through his wit, charm, and humility, Clooney sets an example of balancing fame with familial bonds, showcasing the importance of love and connection in the midst of a high-profile career.