From capturing hearts with her roles and musical talent to finding love when she least expected it at nearly 50 and losing a beloved stepson, take a look at their famous actress’s life over the years.
In Hollywood, few stars have experienced a life as richly woven with love, loss, and artistry as this celebrated actress. She found her soulmate unexpectedly close to 50, embracing a relationship that brought joy and a new family.
Alongside her career, she became a devoted mother to her daughters and a caring stepmother, enduring the heartbreaking loss of her stepson along the way. Here’s a closer look at her journey of resilience and passion.
A Late Romance
This famous actress found true love at 47, marrying actor Michael McKean, known for his roles in “This Is Spinal Tap” and “Better Call Saul,” in 1999.
McKean marked their 23rd anniversary on X in March 2022, sharing, “23 years ago, I married my best friend, and it is working out beautifully. Thanks for saying yes, @creamofwool.” The actress, commonly known for her role in “Smallville” and other projects, responded, “I’ll say. 23 years ago today.”
Michael McKean and the actress attended the New York premiere of “The Diplomat” season two on October 28, 2024. The couple, with over two decades of marriage, radiated warmth and support as they marked another milestone in McKean’s career. | Source: Getty Images
The couple’s journey began as a casual friendship, meeting at industry gatherings over the years. Their connection deepened after working together on the TV movie “Final Justice,” leading to more frequent contact.
One night, McKean made an unexpected call while the actress cared for her sick daughter, and in that conversation, she sensed his feelings had changed.
“I heard it all in his voice. I just heard that he…he liked me that way,” she shared. That call became the start of a relationship that would soon take a memorable turn.
Their first official date was a live show at UCLA, where they watched legends like Bob Dylan and Van Morrison perform. When Morrison came onstage and played “Have I Told You Lately,” it struck a chord — the couple now considers it their song.
The moment was so powerful that she later said she would have married McKean that very night. However, she jokingly added that their children were the only reason they didn’t rush down the aisle immediately.
For over two decades, a shared love of reading has kept them close. One of their first reads was “Lost Horizon” by James Hilton, which McKean suggested. They often choose books that are new to both of them.
“It was such a wonderful experiment,” the famous actress said, adding that her husband’s “mellifluous” voice lulls her to sleep. Reading together became a cherished ritual through life’s demands and time apart, with the actress revealing, “We really like spending time together.”
The actress and Michael McKean at the 2023 Sentinel Awards on December 6 in Beverly Hills, California. Their bond, evident in every appearance, showcases a partnership that has grown even stronger through decades in Hollywood. | Source: Getty Images
The actress and Michael McKean on stage during the 32nd Annual Lucille Lortel Awards on May 7, 2017, in New York. The couple, united by a shared passion for the arts, took the stage together, highlighting their mutual support and admiration. | Source: Getty Images
Motherhood and Heartbreak
Before meeting McKean, the Hollywood actress’s focus was on her career and raising her two daughters. Her family remained her priority, and in September 2021, the Hollywood star celebrated National Daughters Day by sharing a tribute and a photo of her beautiful daughters on X, formerly known as Twitter.
When she met McKean, romance wasn’t on her mind. Yet, as their connection grew, she embraced his family, blending her life with his, including his two children from a previous relationship. Together, they formed a supportive, loving unit.
Tragically, the family suffered a devastating loss in 2012 when McKean’s son, Colin, passed away. Colin was found dead on December 3 in Ashland, Oregon, within 24 hours of another suspected heroin-related death nearby.
Reports revealed that authorities were awaiting lab results to determine Colin’s cause of death and investigating potential connections between the two cases.
A Thriving Career and Passion for Music
This actress, whose career has spanned decades with roles that have made her a beloved figure in Hollywood, is none other than Annette O’Toole. She gained early fame as Lana Lang in “Superman III” alongside Christopher Reeve and later won audiences over as Martha Kent in “Smallville.”
She also took on the role of Beverly Marsh in the 1990 adaptation of Stephen King’s “It,” cementing her status as a versatile actress who shines across a variety of genres.
More recently, O’Toole has captivated Netflix audiences as Hope McCrea in the hit series “Virgin River.” When asked about current projects, she shared that the popular show has been her primary focus, saying, “Virgin River is what I do.”
In addition to her acting, O’Toole is a talented musician. She and McKean co-wrote the Oscar-nominated song “A Kiss at the End of the Rainbow” for the 2003 film “A Mighty Wind.”
Annette O’Toole attended the 48th Annual Golden Globe Awards in 1991, exuding classic Hollywood elegance in a deep blue gown. At the height of her career, she captured audiences with both her talent and timeless beauty. | Source: Getty Images
Annette O’Toole attended the premiere of “The Outer Limits” on September 14, 1995, in Santa Monica, California. Known for her versatile roles, she continued to impress fans with her warm presence and captivating smile. | Source: Getty Images
She recently revealed that they were collaborating on new music, including a song inspired by a traditional jig she adapted into a ballad titled “Halfway Home.” Her daughter’s band even performed an arrangement of it, though O’Toole admitted she was still refining the lyrics, adding, “It’s got to have another verse.”
O’Toole also mentioned how both she and McKean have kept busy in their careers, despite being in the later stages of their lives. Reflecting on their recent time together in London, where McKean was filming for Netflix’s “The Diplomat,” the actress shared how they enjoyed their stay by the canals of Camden.
They bonded over small discoveries — spotting canal barges, naming waterfowl, and watching baby birds hatch. These simple moments, she explained, were deeply meaningful, highlighting the joy they still find in each other’s company.
Through it all, fans have continued to admire O’Toole’s timeless beauty, with social media often lighting up with praise for her graceful appearance and enduring talent.
“I admire you so much. You are a beautiful woman,” one person commented. Another shared, “Till beautiful even though its not young….😍 [sic].” A third social media user typed, “Beautiful woman always.”
On May 20, 2016, Annette O’Toole attended the 82nd Annual Drama League Awards Ceremony and Luncheon in New York. Decades into her career, she remained an admired presence, celebrated for her achievements on screen. | Source: Getty Images
On the set of “The Good Doctor” in 2019, Annette O’Toole portrayed a complex character with her signature emotional depth. Even in guest roles, her performances continued to captivate viewers and showcase her remarkable versatility. | Source: Getty Images
On April 17, 2022, Annette O’Toole attended the opening night of “The Minutes” on Broadway in New York.Displaying her timeless style, she remains a celebrated figure, admired for her lasting contributions to film and theater. | Source: Getty Images
Annette O’Toole’s life has been a testament to resilience, passion, and enduring love. From finding romance later in life to navigating motherhood, heartbreak, and a thriving career, she has embraced every chapter with grace.
