The Family Stone: A Holiday Classic That Defied Expectations
The Family Stone, a film that captured the hearts of many with its unique blend of humor and heart, made its debut in 2005. This family drama, which centers around an eldest son bringing his high-strung girlfriend home for Christmas, has become a beloved holiday classic over the years.
The movie features an all-star cast including Diane Keaton, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Rachel McAdams, who brought their talents to life on screen. As the film celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, it’s clear that its impact has only grown stronger.
Interestingly, the film was originally titled “F—ing Hate Her.” Would it still be as fiercely loved by fans if it had been released under that title? While we might say no, the fact that it became a new holiday classic despite its alien characterizations and tonal shifts suggests that the original title could have worked.
Entertainment Weekly described The Family Stone as a “beautifully styled cashmere throw draped on an Eames chair than a lumpy granny afghan tossed on a Barcalounger.” It continued, “But somehow, it dramatizes the attractive traps of bohemian-bourgeois aspirations (and snobbism) and, with a light comedic touch, also holds its ground as an old-fashioned and even sweet story about love — and the swapping of perfectly wrapped presents.”
Key Cast Members and Their Journeys
Diane Keaton as Sybil Stone
Diane Keaton played Sybil, the bohemian matriarch of the Stone clan, who is struggling with cancer. Keaton drew from her own experiences with her mother, finding the role deeply moving. She went on to star in several films, including Mad Money, Love the Coopers, and Finding Dory. In 2011, she published a memoir, Then Again, which was praised for being as “idiosyncratic as its subject.” Keaton passed away in October 2025 at the age of 79.
Craig T. Nelson as Kelly Stone
Craig T. Nelson portrayed Kelly Stone, the college professor and “wife guy” alongside Keaton’s Sybil. He later appeared in Book Club and its sequel, as well as roles on Parenthood and Young Sheldon. He also reprised his role as Mr. Incredible in The Incredibles’ 2018 sequel.
Dermot Mulroney as Everett Stone
Dermot Mulroney played Everett Stone, the eldest son who brings chaos to Christmas by bringing home Parker’s Meredith. Mulroney has remained active in the industry, working with directors like David Fincher and Clint Eastwood. He is also a talented cellist, contributing to the scores of blockbusters like Jurassic World and Rogue One.
Sarah Jessica Parker as Meredith Morton
Sarah Jessica Parker played Meredith Morton, the fiancée of Everett, who rankles the liberal Stones with her buttoned-up personality. Parker has continued to work on projects like And Just Like That… and Hocus Pocus 2. She shares a son with her husband, Matthew Broderick.
Rachel McAdams as Amy Stone
Rachel McAdams was fresh off the success of Mean Girls and The Notebook when she joined The Family Stone as Amy. She has since appeared in numerous films, including The Time Traveler’s Wife and Doctor Strange. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role in Spotlight.
Luke Wilson as Ben Stone
Luke Wilson played Ben Stone, the reefer-puffing film editor. He has appeared in films like Idiocracy and Enlightened. Most recently, he starred in Horizon: An American Saga and No Good Deed.
Elizabeth Reaser as Susannah Stone Trousdale
Elizabeth Reaser played Susannah, the eldest daughter of the Stones. She has appeared in films like Twilight and The Haunting of Hill House. She was nominated for an Emmy for her role on Grey’s Anatomy.
Tyrone Giordano as Thad Stone
Tyrone Giordano, a deaf actor, portrayed Thad Stone, the deaf son of the Stones. He learned sign language for the film and has since taught ASL and worked in communications.
Brian J. White as Patrick Thomas
Brian J. White played Patrick Thomas, Thad’s partner. He has appeared in Tyler Perry films and cult horror hits like The Cabin in the Woods. He has also worked on TV series like Scandal.
Claire Danes as Julie Morton
Claire Danes played Julie Morton, Meredith’s younger sister. She has won two Emmys for Homeland and has appeared in films like Stardust and Me and Orson Welles.
Paul Schneider as Brad Stevenson
Paul Schneider played Brad Stevenson, an EMT with eyes for Amy. He has appeared in films like The Assassination of Jesse James and Lars and the Real Girl. He has also worked on TV series like Parks and Recreation.
Jamie Kaler as John Trousdale
Jamie Kaler played John Trousdale, the husband of Susannah. He has appeared on shows like How I Met Your Mother and NCIS.
Savannah Stehlin as Elizabeth
Savannah Stehlin made her screen debut as Elizabeth, the daughter of Susannah and John. She has appeared on Gilmore Girls and Hannah Montana. She is currently involved with the worship team at Salty Church.
Where to Watch The Family Stone
The Family Stone is currently available to stream on Hulu. For more entertainment news, celebrity updates, and what to watch, subscribe to the EW Dispatch newsletter.
