From captivating audiences with her acting and music to finding love later in life and enduring deep personal loss, this beloved actress’s journey has been one of strength, love, and unwavering resilience.
In a town where fame often overshadows real-life struggles, Annette O’Toole’s story stands out. She met her soulmate, actor Michael McKean, just shy of 50, and together they built a life full of joy, creativity, and deep family bonds.
Though romance wasn’t her focus at the time, their connection grew from friendship into a lasting marriage. They officially began their journey together in 1999, and over two decades later, their bond remains stronger than ever.
Their relationship blossomed unexpectedly. After collaborating on a TV project, McKean reached out during a difficult night for O’Toole, and his tone revealed something deeper. That call marked the beginning of a love story filled with tender moments — including a memorable first date at a concert where Van Morrison performed “Have I Told You Lately,” which became their song.
Books, music, and deep conversations helped cement their connection, creating cherished rituals that kept them close through the years. One of their first shared reads was Lost Horizon, and O’Toole often says her husband’s soothing voice is her favorite lullaby.
As much as their marriage has flourished, they’ve also faced unimaginable sorrow. In 2012, McKean’s son, Colin, from a previous relationship, tragically passed away. The loss devastated their blended family, yet they leaned on each other and continued to move forward with grace.
Before meeting McKean, O’Toole was a single mother to two daughters and focused heavily on her career. When she embraced McKean’s children as her own, it added a new layer of love and complexity to her life.
O’Toole’s acting legacy is extensive. From her early fame in Superman III to beloved roles in Smallville, Stephen King’s It, and Netflix’s Virgin River, she has consistently brought warmth and depth to every performance. Beyond acting, she and McKean co-wrote the Oscar-nominated song “A Kiss at the End of the Rainbow,” showcasing their creative synergy.
Now in their later years, the couple continues to collaborate and find joy in the little things — like quiet mornings in London, watching canal birds, and naming ducks together. They’re also working on new music, including a folk ballad O’Toole is still perfecting.
Admired for both her timeless beauty and artistic depth, O’Toole remains a beloved figure in the entertainment world. Her life, marked by late-blooming love, heartbreaking loss, and enduring artistry, is a testament to the power of resilience and connection.