Zach Gilford, well-known for his roles in shows like Criminal Minds, recently opened up about a significant moment he had to miss while filming for the TV series Midnight Mass. On a recent appearance on SiriusXM’s The Julia Cunningham Show, the 43-year-old actor revealed that he was unable to leave the set to be present for the birth of his son during the filming of the show in 2021.
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During the interview, Gilford expressed pride in his work on Midnight Mass, despite the conflicting emotions of missing such a crucial family event. He recounted the experience of filming during the pandemic and the internal struggle of not being able to witness the birth of his son. Gilford shared that he had to maintain focus on his work while grappling with the feeling of regret for not being there for the special moment.
The actor joked about the situation, lightening the heavy mood by mentioning meeting his son eventually. Gilford, who is a parent to a 4-year-old son and a 7-year-old daughter named Zeppelin, with his estranged wife Kiele Sanchez, reflected on the challenging circumstances surrounding the filming of Midnight Mass.

Gilford’s personal life has been subject to public interest, particularly after filing for divorce from Sanchez in April. The couple, who had been together since 2011 and starred in projects like The Purge: Anarchy together, decided to part ways, citing irreconcilable differences. Despite their separation, they continue to co-parent their two children. The actor has been private about his personal life but occasionally shares glimpses of his family on social media.
The challenges faced by actors in balancing their work commitments with personal milestones have been a recurring theme in the industry. Gilford’s experience sheds light on the sacrifices that artists sometimes have to make in pursuit of their careers. The emotional toll of missing out on significant life events like the birth of a child underscores the complexities of navigating a demanding profession while also prioritising family.
The story of Zach Gilford’s absence during his son’s birth serves as a reminder of the multifaceted nature of success in the entertainment industry. While achieving professional milestones is important, maintaining a balance between work and family life remains a challenge for many individuals in the spotlight. Gilford’s candid reflection on his experience offers a glimpse into the sacrifices that often accompany a successful acting career.
As Gilford continues to share his journey as a parent and navigate the complexities of co-parenting, his story resonates with many families facing similar challenges. The actor’s openness about the struggles he has faced underscores the importance of acknowledging the sacrifices made behind the scenes in the pursuit of creative endeavours.
