Chris O’Donnell has always made it clear that his top priority is his family. A proud father of five—Lily, Christopher, Charlie, Finley, and Maeve—Chris has successfully balanced his Hollywood career with his role as a dedicated dad, ensuring that his family comes first.
Growing up in a large family himself, with six siblings, Chris always dreamed of having a big family of his own. In 1997, that dream began to take shape when he married his college sweetheart, Caroline Fentress.
Just two years later, the couple welcomed their first child, Lily Anne O’Donnell, and Chris couldn’t have been more thrilled. “It’s the most amazing feeling in the world to hold your child in your arms,” Chris shared in an interview with Rolling Stone. “I’d do anything for her.”
The couple went on to have four more children, each bringing their own unique joy to the O’Donnell household.
Their first son, Christopher Eugene O’Donnell Jr., known as Chip, was born in 2000, followed by sons Charlie and Finley in 2003 and 2006, respectively. In 2007, the family welcomed their youngest, daughter Maeve Frances O’Donnell, completing their happy brood.
“For sure, my top priority is family,” Chris has often said, a sentiment he’s backed up with actions. After the birth of his children, the actor took a significant step back from the Hollywood limelight, choosing instead to focus on his growing family.
It wasn’t until he was offered a role in NCIS: Los Angeles that he made his return to acting—a decision that allowed him to stay close to home while doing what he loves.
Chris’s journey as a father has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of his life. “Until you have children, you just have no idea what it means to love somebody,” he reflected during an appearance on "Who Do You Think You Are?" in 2013. His deep love for his children is evident in the way he speaks about them and the pride he takes in their accomplishments.
HELLO! takes a closer look at Chris O’Donnell’s children—Lily, Christopher, Charlie, Finley, and Maeve—and the special talents and interests that make each of them unique.
