Tommy Lee Jones, renowned for his iconic roles in films like “The Fugitive,” “JFK,” and “Lincoln,” shares an intriguing love story with his wife, Dawn Laurel-Jones. This couple’s journey, filled with Hollywood moments and shared passions, has captured the hearts of many since they first crossed paths behind the scenes of “The Good Old Boys” in 1995. Let’s delve into the fascinating life of Dawn Laurel-Jones and her remarkable connection with the legendary actor.
Love Behind the Scenes: The Meeting
Tommy Lee Jones and Dawn Laurel-Jones’ love story began in 1995 on the set of “The Good Old Boys.” It was a significant moment for Jones as it marked his television directorial debut, and he also played a leading role in the movie. On the other hand, Dawn was an assistant camera operator at the time. It’s worth noting that during this period, Jones was still married to his second wife, Kimberlea Cloughley.
A Private Ceremony: Marriage in 2001
Their romantic journey took a significant turn on March 19, 2001, when Tommy Lee Jones and Dawn Laurel-Jones tied the knot in a private ceremony held in Alamo Heights, Texas. The intimacy of the event reflected the couple’s preference for keeping their personal life out of the public eye. An interesting detail is that Dawn’s sister, Deborah, who is an architect, played a role in designing the groom’s quarters on the couple’s property.
Jones, speaking to The New Yorker in 2006, shared his vision for the groom’s quarters, including a request for a longhorn head on the wall, adding a touch of his Texas heritage to the space. Dawn Laurel-Jones also embraced her role as stepmother to Jones’ two children from his previous marriage: Austin and Victoria.
Behind the Scenes: Dawn Laurel-Jones’ Career
Dawn Laurel-Jones has carved her path in the film industry, albeit mostly behind the camera. Her roles have included positions such as an assistant camera operator, stills photographer, and camera loader. Her impressive filmography includes work on classics like “Back to the Future Part II” and “RoboCop 2,” in addition to “The Good Old Boys.”
While her last film credit dates back to 2014, Dawn’s contributions to the cinematic world are noteworthy. She played a vital role in capturing the essence of movie sets and scenes, adding her unique perspective to the creative process.
Life on the Ranch: A Private Oasis
Tommy Lee Jones and Dawn Laurel-Jones share a quiet life on a historic cattle ranch in Texas, which has stood for over 150 years. The couple is notoriously private, and the gates to their ranch remain locked, granting access only to friends and family. This secluded oasis allows them to unwind and enjoy their shared interests.
Jones revealed to Texas Monthly in 2006 that their summers were filled with cattle work and evenings spent playing polo, a passion they share. He spoke fondly of their life together, surrounded by the sprawling beauty of their ranch, away from the hustle and bustle of Hollywood.
In addition to their Texas ranch, the couple divides their time with a 74-acre polo range in Buenos Aires, Argentina, as reported by The New Yorker. Polo has become a shared pursuit that has brought them closer.
A Love for Polo: A Shared Passion
Both Tommy Lee Jones and Dawn Laurel-Jones share a deep love for playing polo. In 2006, Jones took the initiative to fund two polo teams, comprising the couple, six professional players, and over 50 horses. They spent half the year at Jones’ farm and stables in Florida, honing their sports skills.
Jones proudly proclaimed, “We are at the top of our game. We can beat anybody, anytime, anywhere.” Interestingly, polo was a sport that Dawn hadn’t played before her relationship with Jones. In a testament to her dedication, Jones described her as “one of the best women polo players in the country,” despite her unfamiliarity with horseback riding a decade prior.
On-Set Collaboration: Working Together
Their collaborative spirit extends to the film industry. Jones directed and starred in “The Three Burials of Melquiades Estrada,” a film in which Dawn Laurel-Jones played the role of the on-set still photographer. Additionally, Jones’ daughter Victoria, just 14 years old at the time, had a role in the movie. She overslept during filming, leading Jones to fire her, but the production staff secretly ensured she made it to the set on time, as revealed in Jones’ interview with The New Yorker.
In conclusion, the enchanting love story of Tommy Lee Jones and Dawn Laurel-Jones is a testament to the enduring power of shared passions and commitment. From their meeting behind the scenes to their private ranch life and collaborative ventures in the film industry, their journey is filled with love, adventure, and Hollywood magic, making their story truly captivating.
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