When actor Jim Caviezel married teacher and former college basketball player Kerri Browitt, Hollywood looked very different. The wedding didn't feature glossy magazine covers or red carpet broadcasts. Instead, the ceremony took place quietly in the Pacific Northwest, reflecting the couple's shared commitment to privacy, faith, and traditional values.
Understanding the reality behind Jim Caviezel's wedding requires looking past modern celebrity culture. The couple tied the knot on July 20, 1996, at the Immaculate Conception Church in Roslyn, Washington. Far from a high-society media spectacle, the event focused closely on family, friends, and their shared religious background. Decades later, their enduring partnership remains a notable example of a long-lasting Hollywood marriage.
How Jim and Kerri Met
Before reaching the altar, the couple crossed paths through a family introduction in 1993. Jim's sister, Amy, set them up on a blind date. At the time, Jim was working to establish his acting career, while Kerri was known for her athletic achievements as a standout basketball player at Western Washington University, where she set records for her defensive play and teamwork.
They quickly found common ground. Both grew up in devout Catholic households and shared deep athletic roots in Washington state. Their relationship developed over three years, balancing Jim's early film projects with Kerri's education career. By the time they decided to marry, they had established a strong foundation built on shared values rather than industry proximity. To see the bigger picture, check out the excellent analysis by The New York Times.
The Wedding Ceremony in Roslyn, Washington
The wedding took place at the Immaculate Conception Church, a historic local parish in Roslyn, Washington.
- The Venue: Choosing a traditional church rather than a secular celebrity hotspot set the tone for the event.
- The Guest List: Attendance was kept intimate, limited to close family members, lifelong friends, and select local guests.
- The Atmosphere: The ceremony prioritized religious tradition and solemn vows over public spectacle.
By choosing a small-town parish in Washington instead of Los Angeles, the couple signaled early on that their personal lives would remain separate from celebrity culture.
Shared Values and Marriage Longevity
Sustaining a marriage in the entertainment industry for three decades is rare. Jim and Kerri accomplished this by deliberately stepping away from the typical spotlight. Kerri continued her work as an English teacher, avoiding red-carpet events unless necessary to support her husband's major film releases.
Their shared faith heavily influences their household rules and career choices. Jim has frequently spoken about turning down gratuitous romantic or violent scenes in films out of respect for his wife and his religious beliefs. This mutual respect has defined their public-facing boundaries, ensuring their family life remains private.
Expanding Their Family Through Adoption
Following their wedding, the couple focused on building a family. Facing challenges with biological children, they chose international adoption, welcoming three children from China: Bo, Lynn, and David.
Each child faced severe medical challenges, including major brain tumors and cancer diagnoses at the time of adoption. The couple utilized their resources and faith to navigate complex medical treatments, eventually helping their children recover. This shared hardship further solidified their partnership away from public scrutiny.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Jim Caviezel and Kerri Browitt get married?
They married on July 20, 1996, at the Immaculate Conception Church in Roslyn, Washington.
Where did the wedding take place?
The ceremony was held at a traditional Catholic parish in Roslyn, Washington, close to where both grew up.
How many children do Jim and Kerri Caviezel have?
They have three adopted children: Bo, Lynn, and David.
Did Kerri Caviezel have an athletic background?
Yes. Before her teaching career, Kerri was a star college basketball player at Western Washington University, known for her defensive skills and rebounding.
