Let me tell you about Jerry O'Connell. You might remember him as the charming kid actor who stole our hearts in Stand by Me. Born and raised in New York, Jerry's career began at a young age, starring in commercials before landing that iconic role in 1987. But guess what? That was just the beginning. Over the years, Jerry has kept busy with films and television, even earning a degree from New York University. Recently, though, he's taken a bold step into the world of hosting, and it's been quite the journey.
Transitioning to Hosting: A New Chapter in Jerry's Career
In the summer of 2021, Jerry stepped into Sharon Osbourne's shoes as a cohost on The Talk. Now, he's also teamed up with his wife, actress Rebecca Romijn, to cohost The Real Love Boat, a dating reality series on Paramount+. Oh, and did I mention he's hosting the syndicated game show Pictionary? That's a lot of hosting for someone who admits it's a lot harder than it looks. "I thought I'd just be lounging on the deck, maybe shooting an elimination ceremony for an hour a day," Jerry, 48, says with a laugh. "But nope, it's a lot more work than that. Exhausting, but fun!"
Adapting to The Talk: A Big Move
When asked about joining The Talk, Jerry recalls the moment with a chuckle. "I was all about acting, and then they called me up about this opportunity. I'm still figuring it out, you know? There are so many incredible hosts out there, and I'm just trying to keep up! But hey, I'm not going to tell my employers they're making a mistake hiring me!" Jerry admits he's still learning the ropes, but he's embracing the challenge wholeheartedly.
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Preparing for The Real Love Boat: Capturing the Magic
Hosting a reality show was uncharted territory for Jerry. So, when it came to The Real Love Boat, he wanted to get it right. "I asked my boss if there was anything specific I should do to prepare," he shares. "He told me to watch as many episodes of the original Love Boat as possible. That's exactly what Rebecca and I did. We really wanted to capture the essence of that classic show."
When asked about his favorite episodes, Jerry lights up. "Oh, anything with Charo is a must-watch! She's such a riot. And that episode where Gopher and Doc both try to win over a starlet? Classic! They both lose out when she finds love on the boat, which is exactly what the show is all about."
Sailing the Mediterranean: A Dream Come True
Imagine filming a show while sailing around the Mediterranean. Sounds pretty amazing, right? For Jerry, it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. "It was my first time in Italy, Greece, and Turkey. Every time we docked, I jumped in the Mediterranean for a swim. It was breathtaking. I'll never forget that trip."
Family Time on Set: Bringing the Kids Along
When it came to shooting The Real Love Boat, Jerry made sure his family was part of the adventure. "Our 13-year-old twin daughters, Dolly and Charlie, weren't on camera, but they were with us. It was a blast. If you have teenage girls, a cruise is perfect. They can only get into so much trouble on a ship!" Jerry jokes.
A Career Full Circle: Reflecting on the Past
Jerry's daughters are around the same age he was when he started acting. "It's surreal to have kids now. They're not professional actors, but they do drama at school. One of my daughters reminds me so much of myself. It's been incredibly rewarding to see her enjoy the arts. It feels like coming full circle."
Juggling Career and Family: The Daily Grind
Like many parents, Jerry faces the challenge of balancing a busy career with family life. "The hardest part is driving the kids everywhere. School, tutoring, swim lessons—it's nonstop. But we keep them busy because otherwise, they'd just be glued to their phones all day!"
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Of course, many fans remember Jerry as Vern in Stand by Me. "Making that film was such a blast. Working with River Phoenix, Wil Wheaton, Corey Feldman, and Rob Reiner was incredible. It was the first time I truly felt at home on set. I'm so grateful for those early opportunities."
Staying Connected: Lifelong Friendships
Jerry keeps in touch with his Stand by Me co-stars. "I chat with Wil and Corey all the time. Corey always lets me know when he has new music out, and Wil hosts an awesome show called The Ready Room on Paramount+. We grab lunch a few times a year and catch up. Sadly, River passed away too young, but he's in my thoughts every night."
When asked about River, Jerry's voice softens. "He was truly one of a kind. I've never met anyone quite like him. He's definitely in my prayers."
Supportive Beginnings: Encouraging the Next Generation
Jerry's parents were always supportive of his acting dreams. "Growing up, my family encouraged me to pursue what I loved. Now, we try to do the same with our kids. One's into the arts, the other into sports. You can't force kids to do anything, but you can hope they find something they enjoy."
As for his daughters watching his work, Jerry shares, "They've seen Stand by Me, and they love my wife's show Star Trek: Strange New Worlds. They also enjoy Star Trek: Lower Decks and, of course, The Real Love Boat."
Favorite Roles and Dreams Ahead
When asked about his favorite acting jobs, Jerry beams. "Starring with Mariah Carey in the 'Heartbreaker' music video was definitely a highlight. If that doesn't get me a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, I don't know what will!"
As for what's next on his bucket list, Jerry says, "I got to visit Italy and Greece on The Real Love Boat. Now, I'd love to explore the Caribbean. And hey, who wouldn't want to be Captain Jack Sparrow?"
Proud Moments: Family and Career
When it comes to what he's most proud of, Jerry doesn't hesitate. "I'm proud that I somehow convinced my wife to marry me—and even prouder that she's stuck around! I'm also proud of my kids and the career I've built. It's been a long road, but I wouldn't trade it for anything."
