As the saying goes, behind every great man is an even greater woman.
Mario Lopez and wife Courtney Lopez proved that point as they both starred in their first Great American Family holiday film together, “Once Upon a Christmas Wish.”
Mario openly acknowledges that working with his wife carries its unique challenges. Those amalgamated identities of husband and collaborator can sometimes create a tense atmosphere, blurring the lines between personal and professional life. It’s a sentiment that many couples who share a workplace can relate to; balancing affection with feedback is a delicate dance.
“Watch the tone and when conveying certain things, sometimes, because . . . you may be speaking to them as an actress, but she’s still listening as a wife . . . that was challenging,” Mario reflected thoughtfully.
“The biggest challenge I would say is you still have to navigate the balance of husband and coworker.”
Despite these hurdles, Mario asserts that he and Courtney have a defined rhythm. They continue to produce quality projects together, which includes their lively radio show and hosting “Access Daily” at intervals. “She is sharp and talented, so I enjoy it,” he admits wholeheartedly.
Describing their experience on set as “incredible,” Mario expressed great joy in sharing the stage with both his wife and son, Dominic. “I thought, what better way… to launch this relationship than with a project with my actual family and my wife, who’s wildly talented,” he said, showing a touch of fatherly pride.
They originally crossed paths on the vibrant backdrop of Broadway, performing in “A Chorus Line” in 2008. The chemistry they created back then still ignites the screen today. In “Once Upon a Christmas Wish,” Mario plays Mayor Brian Ortega, who rediscovers his childhood wish list as he rekindles a romance with childhood friend Nina, brought to life by Courtney.
This heartfelt holiday film, infused with nostalgia and warmth, is a true family affair, celebrating their 15 years together and 12 years of marriage.
Unlike many Hollywood couples whose ties fray under pressure, the “Saved by the Bell” star revealed a simple truth: “She’s the quarterback of the team… I just let her call the plays and listen accordingly,” he quipped, showing his appreciation for Courtney’s strengths. There’s an unmistakable rhythm in their combined involvement in numerous projects, yet they always put their children first.
“We respect each other, and she understands the schedule is a little crazy, and I support her… we make it all about the kids. I’m very happy with my life at the moment. I feel very blessed and lucky,” he shares, a sentiment resonating amidst the chaos of show business.
Dominic, their eldest, also took part in “Once Upon a Christmas Wish.” While he has appeared as a guest in other projects previously, this marks his first official acting role. Mario beams with pride, noting, “Just to brag a little as a dad, in the middle of shooting this movie, he also entered a wrestling tournament in Chicago and jujitsu tournament… took first place in both.”
Mario and Courtney came together in a beautiful ceremony in Punta Mita, Mexico, in 2012. Together, they navigate parenthood with their three children: Gia, Dominic, and Santino.
Mario joined the Great American Family Christmas Festival alongside the cinematic talents of “Full House” star Candace Cameron Bure and “The Wonder Years” darling Danica McKellar. Bure, who also serves as chief creative officer of Great American Family Channel since 2022, is dubbed the “Queen of Christmas Movies.”
Bure’s films, along with McKellar’s contributions, have enriched the network’s holiday offerings. The festival invites families to gather for joy-filled activities, including ice skating and festive food. Hosted at the Northwell Park at USB Arena in New York, the festival continues until December 24th.
Totaling the memories, one experiences while witnessing the entwined lives of Mario and Courtney Lopez during this festive season, creates a heartwarming narrative that underscores the joy of family, love, and the magic of Christmas films.
