Two of Hollywood’s most recognizable former child stars, Macaulay Culkin and Brenda Song, turned an unsuccessful first meeting into one of entertainment’s most enduring private romances. The couple, who met through mutual friend Seth Green in 2014, shared that their first interaction was less than promising. Song was “thoroughly unimpressed” when Culkin attempted to make light of her recently canceled Fox show “Dads.”
Three years later, fate intervened when they were cast together in director Seth Green’s film “Changeland.” The close proximity during filming led to a connection that neither expected. Following production, they were spotted on a double date with Green and his wife at Knott’s Berry Farm in Los Angeles.
The couple’s relationship deepened through their shared experiences as former child actors. Song, widely known for her role as London Tipton on Disney Channel’s “The Suite Life on Deck,” and Culkin, who shot to fame as Kevin McCallister in the “Home Alone” franchise, found common ground in their unique upbringings. Song later revealed that reading Culkin’s personal journals showed her a sensitive side to him, and that changed her perspective entirely.
Their relationship milestones unfolded quietly, beginning with adopting a cat together in 2019. In April 2021, they welcomed their first child, son Dakota, named in memory of Culkin’s late sister. Their family expanded again in 2023 with the arrival of their second son, Carson.
The couple’s engagement in January 2022 came with a uniquely personal touch – Culkin proposed with 21 individually wrapped garden gnomes. They haven’t rushed to the altar despite being engaged for over two years. “My mom would have a heart attack,” Song explained when discussing their thoughts about eloping.
Their parenting style reflects their desire for privacy and hands-on involvement. The couple chose to raise their children without a nanny, instead relying on Song’s parents for support when needed. Culkin has embraced what the family affectionately calls his role as the “homebody dad.”
The family has embraced unique holiday traditions, with one of their favorites being an annual viewing of “Home Alone” during the Christmas season. This ritual has become particularly meaningful as their older son, Dakota, has developed a strong connection to his father’s iconic role, so much so that he genuinely believes he is Kevin McCallister.
Beyond their family traditions, their relationship has profoundly impacted their personal development. Culkin has shown unwavering support for Song, describing his belief in her as deeply rooted. At the same time, Song has credited him with helping her evolve into a more confident and dynamic version of herself, encouraging her to tap into her inner strength and passion.
In December 2023, during his Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony, Culkin publicly acknowledged Song’s impact on his life, calling her his “champion” and “the best person I’ve ever known.” The event marked a rare public appearance for the couple, who have maintained their privacy while supporting each other’s careers.
Their most recent public appearance came at a Lakers game in January 2025, where they demonstrated the same chemistry that has defined their relationship since its unexpected beginning in 2017. The couple continues to balance their thriving family life with selective professional projects, having succeeded in keeping their personal life primarily shielded from public view while maintaining active careers in the entertainment industry.
