7 Shocking Facts About Dennis Quaid At 71: His Age, New Wife, And 2025 Career Resurgence

The question of "how old is Dennis Quaid" is more than a simple number; it's a testament to a career spanning five decades, marked by comebacks, blockbuster roles, and a surprisingly active personal life that continues to make headlines in late 2025. The beloved actor, known for his signature grin and enduring youthful energy in films like The Parent Trap and The Right Stuff, has not slowed down, even as he enters his eighth decade.

As of December 2025, Dennis Quaid is 71 years old, having celebrated his birthday on April 9, 1954. His continued relevance in Hollywood is less about his age and more about his recent string of high-profile projects—including a major biopic and a chilling true-crime series—that prove his star power is as potent now as it was in the 1980s. This article dives into the essential facts of his life and career, from his latest marriage to his most recent roles.

Dennis Quaid: Complete Biographical Profile

Dennis William Quaid has maintained a prolific and often tumultuous career in the entertainment industry. His journey from a college dropout to a Hollywood veteran is filled with iconic roles, personal struggles, and a family that includes a rising star of his own.

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• Full Name: Dennis William Quaid
• Date of Birth: April 9, 1954
• Current Age (as of Dec 2025): 71
• Place of Birth: Houston, Texas, U.S.
• Occupation: Actor, Musician (The Sharks)
• Spouse: Laura Savoie (m. 2020)
• Previous Spouses: P. J. Soles (m. 1978; div. 1983), Meg Ryan (m. 1991; div. 2001), Kimberly Buffington (m. 2004; div. 2018)
• Children: Jack Quaid (b. 1992, with Meg Ryan), Thomas Boone Quaid (b. 2007, with Kimberly Buffington), Zoe Grace Quaid (b. 2007, with Kimberly Buffington)
• Notable Early Roles: Breaking Away (1979), The Right Stuff (1983), The Big Easy (1986)

The 71-Year-Old's Unprecedented 2024-2025 Career Comeback

While many actors scale back their workload in their 70s, Dennis Quaid is experiencing a genuine career renaissance, tackling some of the most challenging and high-profile roles of his life. His recent filmography demonstrates an impressive range, moving seamlessly from political drama to chilling true crime and major science fiction.

1. Playing a President: The Biopic 'Reagan' (2024)

One of Quaid's most significant recent achievements is his portrayal of former U.S. President Ronald Reagan in the 2024 biopic, Reagan. The role required Quaid to capture the essence of the "Great Communicator" across multiple decades, from his early life to his time in the Oval Office. The film, based on Paul Kengor's book *The Crusader*, offered a deep dive into the character-defining moments of the 40th president. Critics and audiences alike praised Quaid's ability to embody the political icon, solidifying his status as a versatile dramatic actor in his seventies.

2. The Chilling True Crime Role in 'Happy Face' (Series)

In a stark contrast to the presidential role, Quaid took on the dark persona of Keith Hunter Jesperson, better known as the "Happy Face Killer," in the chilling Paramount+ true crime series *Happy Face*. The series, which premiered in 2024, is based on the true story of Jesperson's daughter, Melissa Reed, who grapples with the legacy of her serial killer father. This performance showcases Quaid's willingness to embrace complex, darker material, proving that his acting prowess extends far beyond the charming roles he is often known for.

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3. Upcoming Sci-Fi and Action Blockbusters: 'Sovereign' and 'War Machine'

Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, Quaid is slated to appear in several major genre films, further diversifying his portfolio. The upcoming film *Sovereign* (expected 2025), a sci-fi action project, has already generated buzz, with Quaid starring alongside Nick Offerman. Additionally, he is attached to the science fiction action film *War Machine*, directed by Patrick Hughes. These high-octane roles confirm that Quaid remains a sought-after leading man capable of anchoring large-scale cinematic productions, even as he approaches his mid-seventies.

Dennis Quaid's Life Beyond the Screen: Family, Music, and Age Gaps

Dennis Quaid’s personal life has often been as scrutinized as his professional one, particularly his high-profile marriages and his role as a father.

4. The Marriage That Shocked Hollywood: Laura Savoie

In 2020, Quaid married his fourth wife, Laura Savoie, in a private ceremony. The marriage garnered significant media attention due to the considerable age difference between the two. Savoie, a Ph.D. student, is 39 years Quaid's junior. Despite the public commentary on the age gap, Quaid has consistently spoken of the relationship in glowing terms, calling his life with Savoie "paradise" and emphasizing their deep connection. This relationship is a key part of his current public narrative, highlighting his enduring vitality and ability to find love later in life.

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5. Following in His Footsteps: Son Jack Quaid

Dennis Quaid is the proud father of three children. His eldest son, Jack Quaid, whom he shares with ex-wife Meg Ryan, has become a successful actor in his own right. Jack Quaid is best known for his roles in the popular series *The Boys* and the *Scream* film franchise, establishing himself as a prominent figure in modern cinema. Dennis Quaid also has fraternal twins, Thomas Boone and Zoe Grace, born in 2007 with his third wife, Kimberly Buffington.

6. The Enduring Appeal of the 'Quaid Factor'

From his early days in films like *The Right Stuff* and *Great Balls of Fire!*, Quaid cultivated a reputation for playing charming, athletic, and often cocky characters. This "Quaid Factor"—a blend of rugged good looks, a captivating smile, and an undeniable on-screen charisma—has allowed him to transition gracefully into more mature, complex roles. His ability to maintain a youthful, energetic presence while embracing the gravitas of age is a major reason for his continued success and high demand in Hollywood today.

7. A Passion for Music: Dennis Quaid and The Sharks

Beyond acting, Dennis Quaid is an accomplished musician. He is the lead singer and songwriter for the band Dennis Quaid and The Sharks. The band, which has been performing for decades, continues to tour, showcasing Quaid's lifelong passion for rock and roll. His musical career provides another dimension to his topical authority, proving he is a true multi-hyphenate artist who is still actively pursuing his creative passions at 71.

In conclusion, the answer to "how old is Dennis Quaid" is 71, but the number only tells a small part of the story. His recent work in the *Reagan* biopic, the intense *Happy Face* series, and his upcoming sci-fi projects demonstrate a career that is not winding down, but surging forward. Coupled with his high-profile personal life, including his marriage to Laura Savoie and his son Jack Quaid's burgeoning career, Dennis Quaid remains one of Hollywood's most fascinating and enduring figures in late 2025.