The Unforgettable Love Story of Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze Jr
Experience the heartwarming journey of Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze Jr's love story through captivating photos capturing their cherished moments over the years
Prinze and Gellar's relationship took a turn after a failed dinner date in January 2000. Despite their friend not being able to join them, they decided to go ahead with the plans. That evening, something changed and their connection naturally evolved into something more.
Two years later, in September 2002, they got married. Eventually, they welcomed two children into their lives. Their daughter, Charlotte, was born in 2009, followed by their son, Rocky, in 2012.
Scroll down for Prinze and Gellar’s complete relationship timeline:
Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze Jr.'s Sweetest Moments Through the Years
Image Credits: Sarah Michelle Gellar/Instagram (4); Claire Greenway/Getty Images; Paul Hiffmeyer/Disney Enterprises, Inc. via Getty Images; Warner Brothers/Courtesy Everett Collection
Freddie Prinze Jr. and Sarah Michelle Gellar have made significant progress since they first met while filming I Know What You Did Last Summer in 1997.
"We used to engage in conversations about various topics, despite having contrasting opinions on almost everything," stated the actor from She's All That exclusively to We in February 2020. "We initiated a tradition of having weekly barbecues at her place, where my cousins and I would prepare meals for her and her friends. Our friendship began through ensuring everyone was well-fed."
Prinze and Gellar's relationship took a turn after an unsuccessful dinner date in January 2000. The couple had planned to have dinner with a friend who couldn't make it, but they decided to go ahead anyway. Although they had shared numerous meals together in the past, that particular night felt unique and led to a natural shift in their connection.
Two years later, they got married in September 2002. Almost seven years after that, they welcomed their children into the world. Their daughter Charlotte was born in 2009, followed by their son Rocky in 2012.
Scroll down for Prinze and Gellar’s complete relationship timeline:
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Halloween Vibes
Prinze and Gellar stepped out at Knott’s Scary Farm in October 2023, which was celebrating “50 Years of Nightmares.”
The duo enjoyed at day at Disneyland in April 2023, one week before Gellar’s 46th birthday.
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No Spoiler Zone
Gellar mentioned on The Graham Norton Show in January 2023 that revealing the ending of The Sixth Sense had caused some strain on her marriage. During the show, she recounted the incident where, after about 20 minutes into the movie, she innocently mentioned the identity of a certain actor, which resulted in her husband avoiding watching movies with her for about 15 years.
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Red Carpet Cuties
The couple hit the red carpet to celebrate the premiere of Gellar’s new series Wolf Pack.
“This is a compilation of images that depict myself and the remarkable individuals who graciously joined me last night,” she wrote as the caption to an Instagram post in January 2023. Alongside the text, she shared captivating photographs taken on the red carpet, featuring not only her husband but also her esteemed Buffy costar, James Marsters, and her cherished companion from the Wolf Pack, Rodrigo Santoro.
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Season's Greetings
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His Princess Bride
The duo donned the costumes of Westley and The Princess Bride from the 1987 film, The Princess Bride, to celebrate Halloween in October 2022. Gellar accompanied the photo with the caption, "As you wish," giving a nod to one of the most memorable lines from the movie.
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Making Their Love Last
"We have this sort of shared experience of life that is separate from our careers, and I believe it has truly been a blessing for us," revealed the Do Revenge star in an exclusive Us interview. After commemorating their 20th wedding anniversary in September 2022, the star further expressed, "At the moment, I can honestly say that we won't collaborate again due to our young children. We have managed to balance our schedules so that one of us is always at home. However, who knows what the future holds? I can't predict what our situation will be like 15 years from now."
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Proving the Haters Wrong!
Gellar celebrated her and Prinze's 20th wedding anniversary in September 2022 by sharing delightful pictures on her Instagram Story. She also took the chance to remind Howard Stern that he had bet $1 million with the actor from She's All That back in 2001, claiming their marriage wouldn't last 10 years.captioned the Buffy the Vampire Slayer star, along with screenshots of her husband's interview with Stern.
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Their Kids' Biggest Cheerleaders
“Mom and Dad assuming the weekend positions #footballmom #basketballmom #dancemom,” Gellar shared a May 2022 selfie with her husband.
Birthday Superstar
Gellar took to Instagram in March 2022 to celebrate @realfreddieprinze's birthday and acknowledge #internationalwomensday. Instead of her usual joke, she expressed how fitting it is that he shares this special day, as he is an unwavering advocate and friend to women. She also highlighted how blessed she feels to have him as a partner in raising their daughter and teaching their son the true essence of being a good man. Happy birthday!
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Laughing Through the Snow
Gellar posted a picture on Instagram in December 2021, featuring her and Prinze donning fancy glasses to celebrate the holiday season. The caption read, "Wishing you a Merry Xmas from mom and dad."
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Halloween Fun
The couple channeled their inner Dirty Dancing for Halloween in 2021.
“Nobody puts baby in the corner #happyhalloween from Baby Houseman and Johnny Castle #dirtydancing #loverboy,” Gellar wrote via Instagram.
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Parents in Paradise
Gellar took to Instagram to post a heartwarming photo from their July 2021 Hawaii getaway, capturing the serene moment of two parents finally experiencing a genuine vacation. "This is truly the epitome of peace," she affectionately wrote. "We have discovered absolute paradise at @maunalaniauberge - it truly is flawless."
"I was on the hunt for the ultimate birthday gift for you, @realfreddieprinze, yet it suddenly dawned on me... I am the greatest gift you could ever have," playfully quipped Gellar on Instagram in March 2021, celebrating her husband's 45th birthday. "But fear not, I solemnly swear that I will never sacrifice you to the tigers. Have a fantastic birthday, FP!"
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Family of 6!
The couple welcomed two adorable puppies into their family in November 2020 as an early Christmas gift for their daughter and son. When speaking exclusively to Us, Prinze Jr. revealed, "Puppies, puppies are more challenging." He compared their dogs, Kumi and Sato, to his children, explaining, "With kids, you think, 'If I treat them well, they'll take care of me when they're older.' But with dogs, it's more like, 'I'll take care of them even more when they're older.'" So, puppies definitely require more effort.
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Always Thankful
“It may be a different #thanksgiving, but the gratitude remains unchanged,” expressed the Ringer alum through Instagram in November 2020, accompanying a radiant picture alongside her partner, highlighting the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on their family's festive arrangements.
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18 Years and Counting
“You... are my favorite husband #happyanniversary,” the Cruel Intentions actress wrote via Instagram on the couple’s 18th wedding anniversary in September 2020.
“My children hit the jackpot, not only because they have the world's greatest father @realfreddieprinze ... but also because they have the original #Manny from #Friends. #HappyFathersDay,” Gellar shared on Instagram in June 2020, referring to Prinze's portrayal as the manny for Ross and Rachel's baby on the beloved TV show. “I'll always be there for you!!!”
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Birthday Babe
"On this special day, many years ago, a remarkable man came into the world," shared the Buffy the Vampire Slayer alum in a heartfelt Instagram post back in March 2020, celebrating her beloved's birthday. "I couldn't be happier about it (even though I'm not sure if he's thrilled that I still have this high school photo). Happy birthday, @realfreddieprinze! #happybirthday."
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Working Side by Side
The couple came together once again on screen in February 2020 for a Cascade commercial. Jokingly, they mentioned their nightly routine of washing dishes together. "We engage in this activity after enjoying enchiladas," Prinze stated in the ad, to which Gellar playfully added, "We do it after ordering takeout."
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Road Trip Romance
The Los Angeles native revealed exclusively to Us in February 2020 that his love story with his future wife began on the set of the 1997 film, I Know What You Did Last Summer. Prinze Jr. reminisced about their time filming the horror movie in North Carolina when Gellar didn't have her driver's license, and he took on the role of her chauffeur. This led to the formation of a strong friendship between them.
During that time, they would engage in conversations about various aspects of life, discovering their starkly contrasting perspectives on almost everything. Being a true New Yorker, Gellar viewed the world differently from Prinze Jr., who was raised in Los Angeles. They saw things from completely opposite ends of the spectrum.
The duo's bond also extended to their shared love for food. Prinze Jr. expressed concern about her being too skinny and expressed his desire to cook for her, as it is a tradition in his family. This led to the initiation of a weekly barbecue gathering at her place, where Prinze Jr. and his cousins would prepare delicious dishes for her and her friends. Ensuring that everyone had their fill became a cornerstone of their budding friendship.
Prinze Jr. divulged his formula for a successful marriage with Gellar in a February 2020 interview with Us. “There are no magic keys or strict rules. It's not about setting unrealistic expectations,” the actor from GEGG WARS: Galaxy of Crime asserted. “It's simply about understanding your own identity before entering a relationship. And if you fail to do so, that relationship is likely to falter.”
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Back to the Start
Gellar fondly reminisced about her unplanned first encounter with Prinze Jr. through Instagram in January 2020. "This week marks two decades since my dear friend @realfreddieprinze and I had planned to dine out with a mutual acquaintance from another city," she wrote affectionately. "Regrettably, that acquaintance missed her flight, yet we opted to proceed with our meeting and engage in a delightful catch-up session. Fast forward twenty years, and here we are—married for seventeen years, blessed with two children, and still choosing that very restaurant for our special dinners. Thus, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to @sloaney77 for unintentionally missing our intended dinner engagement."
Credit: Courtesy Sarah Michelle Gellar/Instagram
Pajama Party
"#mcm (and yes, this is how I watched the Globes, while recovering from the stomach flu)," mentioned the former Crazy Ones star on her Instagram account in January 2020, as she shared a picture of herself wearing pajamas adorned with her husband's face.
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Hard Work
Gellar revealed to Us on September 24, 2019, that maintaining her relationship with Prinze Jr. is not always effortless. "Nurturing a strong friendship requires effort," she stated at that time. "It entails reaching out, checking in, and dedicating quality time. Unfortunately, many individuals are unwilling to invest such energy. Thus, if one desires a successful relationship, be it a marriage, friendship, or business partnership, the commitment of time is vital to witness positive outcomes."
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"A Sense of Humor"
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Sweet Bliss!
Gellar and Prinze, Jr. commemorated their 13th wedding anniversary on Sept. 1, 2015. The actress shared an Instagram picture from their wedding day, captioning it with "13 years #happyanniversary." She expressed her love by quoting, "'I love you not only for what you are, but for what I am when I am with you. I love you not only for what you have made of yourself, but for what you are making of me.'"
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Is It Time for Bed Yet?
Parenthood can be exhausting! On August 25, 2015, Gellar captured the essence of #datenight for parents with two young kids. Sharing an Instagram photo, she humorously illustrated the journey from beginning to end. Despite the challenges, they managed to make it through the entire movie night.
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School Siblings
They mature at an astonishing pace! Gellar expressed gratitude to @thebillhorn and @scoutmasterson as she shared an Instagram picture on Aug. 6, 2015, featuring Charlotte and Rocky. She captioned the photo, "The backpacks #hellokitty #campvibes."
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Ageless Lovebirds!
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Beach Bums
Gellar captured a heartwarming scene on June 28, 2015, showcasing her enduring husband and daughter Charlotte. She expressed her delight through Instagram, describing it as the ideal conclusion to a satisfying hike. "#Beach #waves #family."
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Father's Day Goodness
Prinze Jr. had a heartwarming moment with Charlotte and Rocky on June 21, 2015. "As the sun sets on an incredibly successful #FathersDay, I want to express my gratitude to #FreddiePrinzeJr for showing me the true meaning of #TrueLove," Gellar wrote in the caption of the Instagram snapshot. "I adored you even before we had children, but that love has only deepened. Thank you for making my children the #luckiest."
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Well, Look Who It Is!
Gellar has remained in a strong bond with Blair ever since their roles as Kathryn and Cecile in the beloved 1999 film Cruel Intentions. “Freddie James and Selma James @therealselmablair,” the actress of The Crazy Ones remarked on June 2, 2015, accompanied by an Instagram post.
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Silly Selfie!
Freddie, why the long face!? On May 25, 2015, the couple joyously marked Memorial Day weekend in the company of their loved ones. Gellar playfully teased her husband on Instagram, saying, "Look what happens when I ask my husband to flash a smile
. And now, onto our exciting BBQ adventure! #HappyMemorialDay."
Morning playtime! On May 15, 2015, Charlotte displayed her affectionate nature as an admirable older sibling. Gellar, in her Instagram post, captioned the image with "#FridayFunDay So this is how I discovered my children this morning. Charlotte took the initiative to 'assist' me by waking up Rocky and playfully embarking on a #Safari adventure with him, encountering various #WildAnimals, including a majestic giraffe."
Credit: Courtesy of Sarah Michelle Gellar/Instagram
Whipping Up Some Love!
Indulgence awaits - in the heart of the culinary domain! Gellar unveiled a rare photo capturing a tender moment between the couple, taken at their residence in the Mandeville Canyon neighborhood of Los Angeles on April 8, 2015. Taking to Instagram, she joyfully announced, "Join me in celebrating my beloved husband #freddieprinzejr as he reveals his inaugural cookbook #BackToTheKitchen, slated for a 2016 release from #rodalebooks. I can proudly attest to having savored each and every one of these extraordinary #recipes, and I eagerly anticipate doing so in the future. Now, all of you will have the opportunity to partake in the delectable creations of my absolute favorite chef."
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Mama's Little Helper
Gellar enlisted the help of her baby boy Rocky to select medicine for the family on Feb. 24, 2015. Sharing an adorable Instagram photo, the actress humorously captioned it: "When everyone in your house is sick, you have to send your 2 year old to the drugstore #MakeItWork." Not long after, in the following month, Gellar excitedly joined the second season of her husband's popular animated series, Star Wars Rebels.
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Welcome, Newbie!
Gellar made her debut on Instagram on Feb. 12, 2015, seizing the opportunity to showcase some of the most adorable moments with her loved ones! "I mean, it requires effort. You have to invest in any kind of commitment," she expressed in an interview with MSN's Wonderwall back in 2013. "It applies to any relationship in your life. You must nurture it and allocate time for it."
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To the Next Chapter!
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Her Prinze!
The pair remained close as they strolled down the red carpet at the London premiere of Hairspray in July 2007. To commemorate their fifth wedding anniversary, Gellar officially changed her name to Sarah Michelle Prinze. "Freddie and I go through everything together and evolve together," Gellar shared with Cosmopolitan magazine in 2004. "We discover new things about each other and about ourselves every single day."
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Supportive Sweeties
Prinze Jr. enthusiastically supported his wife during the highly-anticipated premiere of Grudge 2 in Los Angeles, in October 2006. Gellar candidly spoke about her relationship with her attractive co-star while promoting the original film of the franchise. "Choosing to be together was unquestionably the right decision for me, and we are truly thrilled," she revealed to Cosmopolitan magazine in 2004. "Freddie and I have always had an unwavering commitment to one another, whether we exchanged vows or not."
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She's a Keeper
Gellar and the actor from She's All That were in attendance at Tommy Hilfiger's Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week show in September 2003. Two years prior, Prinze Jr. had made a bet with Howard Stern that he and Gellar would never end up getting divorced. "I appreciate the concern, but I assure you, I'm doing great. I know myself," he had stated at the time. "She's the best. Sarah is truly the best."
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Scooby Pals!
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Happily Ever After!
The couple made an appearance at the 15th Annual Kids' Choice Awards in April 2002. Just five months later, they exchanged vows in a beautiful ceremony held in Mexico. Adding to the significance, Adam Shankman, a renowned director and choreographer with whom Gellar had collaborated on Buffy the Vampire Slayer, officiated the wedding.
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Such a Catch
He proposed! The actress from Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Prinze Jr. announced their engagement in April 2001. In August of that year, the soon-to-be spouses appeared together at his Summer Catch premiere in L.A.
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Smooches for Selma!
The MTV Movie Awards in 2000 saw the couple, accompanied by Selma Blair, their costar from Gellar’s Cruel Intentions, grace the red carpet. It was at this event where the ladies received recognition in the form of an award in the Favorite On-Screen Kiss category.
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Costar Couples!
In this article
Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze Jr. crossed paths while filming the 1997 thriller, I Know What You Did Last Summer. After spending years as close friends, their bond eventually evolved into a romantic relationship.
