There’s no denying that Jennifer O’Neill’s life has been nothing short of extraordinary. From her breakout role in the 1971 classic Summer of '42, where she played an older woman who seduces a teenage boy, to the dramatic twists and turns that have shaped her personal life, Jennifer has faced more challenges than most of us could ever imagine. At just 14, she attempted suicide, broke her neck and back in a horse-riding accident at 15, married her first of eight husbands at 17, checked herself into a mental institution, and even accidentally shot herself in the stomach years later. But through it all, Jennifer has emerged stronger, wiser, and more resilient than ever.
In a candid conversation with Closer Weekly, the now-71-year-old shares how her faith and the unwavering support of her husband of 23 years, Mervin Louque, have helped her find peace and joy. With her children—Aimee Sadler, 52, Reis O’Neill, 38, and Cooper Alan, 32—by her side, Jennifer has learned to embrace life’s challenges as opportunities for growth. “I try to look at everything as a learning curve,” she tells the magazine. Through her experiences, she’s discovered the importance of resilience, perseverance, and never losing sight of one’s dreams.
Scroll below to read our exclusive Q&A with Jennifer!
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Working with John Wayne: A Star's Mentorship
Before she became a household name, Jennifer got her start as a teen model and eventually landed her first big acting role opposite the legendary John Wayne in the 1970 film Rio Lobo. Reflecting on the experience, Jennifer recalls how initially she didn’t fully appreciate Wayne’s acting prowess, viewing him more as a Hollywood icon than a fellow performer. “He was everything and a bag of chips, but I was a snob,” she admits. However, once on set, she quickly realized what made Wayne such a beloved star. “John Wayne was a giant star, yet he was delightful and very giving. I wish he was around for me to give him a big hug!”
The Impact of Summer of '42
Though her screen time in Summer of '42 was brief—clocking in at just 14 minutes—Jennifer’s portrayal of the older woman left an indelible mark on audiences. The film remains a beloved classic, and Jennifer’s performance continues to resonate with new generations. “It was a lovely film,” she says, adding with a laugh, “But being known as the older woman at 22, people think I’m around 110. I have white hair, I don’t care!”
How Summer of '42 Changed Her Life
For years, Jennifer’s role in the film made her a heartthrob for men across the country. Women would approach her, thrilled to share that their husbands admired her. But as time passed, the film’s appeal only grew. “Now they say, ‘My husband is in love with you, and so is my son!’” Jennifer shares. “They keep playing the movie, so it has a generational following.”
Was Acting Always the Dream?
Acting wasn’t always on Jennifer’s radar. Born in Rio de Janeiro and moving to the U.S. at just one year old, she began modeling at 15 as a means to buy a horse. “I didn’t care for modeling, but it was a way to pursue my passion for horses,” she explains. At 17, she married, eager to start a family and settle down. “I was just in a hurry,” she says with a chuckle.
