Gary Sinise Opens Up About His 40-Year Marriage to Moira

Gary Sinise isn’t your typical Hollywood actor. The Golden Globe-winning star has devoted his life not only to acting but also to family, service, and community. Unlike many Hollywood marriages, Sinise and his wife, Moira Harris, have been together for over 40 years, raising three children and building a life grounded in love, humor, and mutual respect.

Early Life and Love for Theater

Born on March 17, 1955, in Blue Island, Illinois, Sinise grew up in Highland Park. As a teen, he dabbled in music and struggled in school, but he found his calling in theater. After high school, he co-founded the Steppenwolf Theatre Company in Chicago with friends Terry Kinney and Jeff Perry, starting in a church basement. Under his leadership as artistic director, the company eventually expanded to New York, producing acclaimed shows like Sam Shepard’s True West, starring Sinise and John Malkovich.

Breakthrough in Film

Sinise made his film debut in A Midnight Clear (1992), but his breakout role came in Forrest Gump (1994) as Lt. Dan, a disabled and emotionally tormented veteran. The performance earned him an Academy Award nomination and a Golden Globe nod.

Dedication to Veterans

Lt. Dan became more than a role—it inspired Sinise’s lifelong commitment to veterans. Drawing from family members who served in World War II and Korea, he founded the Lt. Dan Band, performing for troops worldwide, and later the Gary Sinise Foundation, which has built over 80 homes for injured veterans and supported countless military families.

A Lasting Marriage

Sinise met Moira Harris at Illinois State University. Admiring her quiet, kind nature, he fell in love. They married in 1981 after postponing their first wedding for being too young and went on to raise three children: Sophie (1988), McCanna Anthony (1990), and Ella (1992).

On the secret to their enduring marriage, Sinise told Parade:

“My wife’s a loving, funny, Irish-spirited person, and I’m still surprised at some of the things she says. She makes me laugh every day.”

Balancing Career, Family, and Service

From films like Apollo 13, The Green Mile, and CSI: NY to tireless philanthropy, Sinise has shown that it’s possible to balance career success with meaningful service.

Legacy of Love and Service

Gary Sinise’s life demonstrates that true success isn’t just about fame—it’s about family, love, and making a difference. His marriage, career, and philanthropy remind us that humor, respect, and commitment are the foundation of a life well-lived.