Skip to main contentSkip to footer

Hilary Swank reveals the beautiful story behind her twin’s unique names

 The Million Dollar actress named her twins Aya and Ohm

Hilary Swank on the red carpet
Faye James
Senior Editor
Share this:

Hilary Swank recently shared the joys and profound fulfillment of motherhood, marking a new chapter in her illustrious life.

During a heartfelt discussion on the Today show, the two-time Oscar winner opened up about the unique origins behind the names of her twin babies, Aya and Ohm, revealing the depth of thought and meaning she and her husband, Philip Schneider, poured into choosing these names.

The name Aya was inspired by a courageous Syrian refugee girl they met in Lebanon. "She was just this courageous, brave young girl full of life going through a really difficult time. My husband and I were like, she’s so beautiful, what a great name," Hilary shared, reflecting on the impact of their encounter. 

Meanwhile, Ohm, their son's name, draws from a universal concept — "Ohm is considered the first universal sound and unites all people," she explained, emphasizing the name's symbolic resonance of unity and connection.

View post on Twitter

The 49-year-old expressed a newfound understanding of joy and purpose through the lens of motherhood, an experience that she admits surpassed her expectations. 

Despite anticipating the joys of motherhood, she confessed: "Then you have babies and you’re like, ‘I get it.' The love is so expansive, it’s so joyous, and every single day I get to wake up and be with them is like my fullest purpose." 

Hilary Swank with her twins
Hilary Swank with her twins

This revelation underscores the transformative power of motherhood, even for someone who has experienced considerable joy and success in life.

Reflecting on the year 2023, Hilary took to Instagram to express gratitude for her "Angel Babies," proclaiming that their presence makes "everyday, the best day ever." 

This sentiment captures the essence of her journey into motherhood, a journey filled with unparalleled joy and a deeper sense of purpose.

Hilary shares latest images of her growing twins and reveals their names© Instagram
Hilary shares latest images of her growing twins and reveals their names

Hilary’s announcement of her pregnancy on Good Morning America in October 2022 was a moment of personal revelation and excitement. 

"This is something that I've been wanting for a long time and my next thing is I'm gonna be a mom," she shared, embracing the dual blessing of expecting twins with open arms.

Hilary Swank and Philip Schneider attend the 80th Annual Golden Globe Awards at The Beverly Hilton on January 10, 2023 in Beverly Hills, California.© Getty Images
Hilary Swank and Philip Schneider

Hilary and Phillip, who solidified their bond by getting engaged in 2016 after a year of dating, celebrated their union amidst the serene Redwoods of California in August 2018. 

Get the lowdown on the biggest, hottest celebrity news, features and profiles coming out of the U.S.  Sign up to our HELLO! Hollywood newsletter and get them delivered straight to your inbox. 

More Parenting

See more