In a heartfelt revelation, Jerry O’Connell shared how his iconic role in the 1986 film *Stand By Me* played an unexpected part in his romance with wife Rebecca Romijn. As the film celebrates its 40th anniversary, O’Connell, alongside his former co-stars Wil Wheaton and Corey Feldman, recently spoke with *PEOPLE* about the beloved coming-of-age classic and its enduring legacy.
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O’Connell, now 52, recalled the early days of his relationship with Romijn, who, unbeknownst to him at the time, was a lifelong fan of his breakthrough performance as Vern Tessio. Describing his wife as a “supermodel, very famous actress” and “an 11,” he recalls the charming moment they met and started dating after Romijn had left a previous marriage.
As their relationship progressed, O’Connell found himself invited to meet Romijn’s family during a significant holiday. It was during this family gathering that he made a surprising discovery about his partner’s past. While chatting with Romijn’s younger sister over coffee, he learned that *Stand By Me* was Romijn’s favourite film. She had cherished it so much that she had decorated her room with posters and would watch it repeatedly at the cinema.
With a mix of amusement and astonishment, O’Connell remembered his reaction: “What? My wife was like, ‘Shut up. Shut up.’ And her younger sister was like, ‘Stand By Me is her favourite movie. She had posters of it in her room. She saw it maybe a hundred times in the theatre.'” This revelation provided a comical twist to their relationship, with O’Connell jokingly reflecting on how he couldn’t quite believe that he was with someone who idolised the literal character he portrayed on screen.
Romijn, likewise, had her own feelings of disbelief, as O’Connell recalled her thoughts: “She’s going, ‘I can’t believe I’m with Vern. I can’t believe I’m with that fat kid from *Stand By Me*.’” This mutual awe highlights the unconventional and serendipitous nature of their romance, where two stars found each other against the backdrop of a cherished classic film.
Their bond has resulted in a flourishing family, and the couple married in 2007, joyfully welcoming twin daughters, Dolly and Charlie, the following year. O’Connell reflected on how *Stand By Me* was pivotal not only in his career but also in forming the family he adores. “My children are because of this movie,” he said, underscoring its significance beyond just professional achievements.
Romijn recently shared insights into her daughters’ diverging interests during an exclusive conversation with *PEOPLE*. She revealed that Dolly has aspirations of entering the entertainment industry, even expressing an interest in directing. Recently, during a documentary episode shoot, Dolly was given the opportunity to shadow director Sharon Lewis, a moment that thrilled her mother.
Romijn described her daughter’s passion for filmmaking as something truly magical, stating, “Those of us who do this, Jerry and I, are this way. We walk onto a set, and it just feels like magic to us, and she is that way.” Meanwhile, Charlie appears to have different priorities, often focused more on fun and snacks than on acting.
“I’m not mad,” Romijn responded with a smile when asked about the contrasting ambitions of her daughters. “I love having both, actually.” This reflection gives a glimpse into the dynamic family life that O’Connell and Romijn are nurturing, filled with creativity and unique aspirations.
Their journey, from the nostalgic past of *Stand By Me* to the present day as parents and partners, showcases how a film can serve as a bridge connecting disparate lives. As they look back on the film’s impact and forward to the future their daughters will carve out for themselves, it is clear that O’Connell and Romijn cherish every moment of this incredible journey together.