J.K. Simmons is back on our screens, captivating audiences as Eamon Sweeney in the gritty new gangster drama The Westies. Set against the backdrop of 1980s New York, the series follows a ruthless Irish-American gang navigating a dangerous alliance with an Italian-American crime family.
While the 71-year-old star is a Hollywood heavyweight – celebrated for his acclaimed performances in Whiplash, Juno, and La La Land, and a recipient of an Oscar, a BAFTA and a Golden Globe – his wife is also a big name in the industry.
© Brooke Palmer/MGM+From his high-profile marriage to his creative children, here is everything you need to know about J.K.'s life off-screen.
Who is J.K. Simmons' wife?
J.K. Simmons is married to director, actor and producer Michelle Schumacher.
While Michelle began her career as an actor, she eventually moved behind the camera and founded the independent film and television company, Rubber Tree Productions.
She and J.K. have frequently collaborated. Michelle directed her husband in her 2017 drama, I'm Not Here, which also starred Sebastian Stan and Mandy Moore, and again in the 2024 thriller film, You Can't Run Forever.
© Rodin Eckenroth/Getty ImagesThe couple first met in 1991 after both starring in the same musical production of Peter Pan, in which Michelle was a dancer and J.K. played Captain Hook.
Reflecting on their first meeting, J.K. previously told PEOPLE: "I rented a car. I don't know where I was going but I was just leaving the parking lot, and I saw our dance captain walking with this beautiful, petite blonde."
He added: "I just tried my best not to be the idiot who's craning his neck leering at this beautiful young woman."
J.K. Simmons' family life and children
J.K. and Michelle share two children, Joe and Olivia.
Creativity clearly runs in the family. While Joe is a musician and composer, Olivia has followed in her parents' footsteps as an actress.
Joe and Olivia also worked on the 2024 film, You Can't Run Forever, alongside their parents. While Joe composed music featured in the film, Olivia starred alongside their dad.
© Alamy Stock PhotoThe pair both live near their parents in New York City.
Sharing an insight into family life back in 2024, J.K. revealed that "game night is huge" in the Simmons household.
"It’s great family time," the actor told PEOPLE, adding: "I like cooperative ones best."
