Jessica Capshaw, known for her role on Grey’s Anatomy, recently opened up about her family’s Christmas traditions, offering a glimpse into the holiday celebrations with her stepfather, renowned director Steven Spielberg. Capshaw, whose mother Kate Capshaw married Spielberg in 1991, shared insights into their blended family’s festive gatherings during an exclusive interview with PEOPLE at the iHeartRadio Jingle Ball in New York City.
Capshaw described their Christmas celebrations as happening in “all sorts of ways” due to the size of their extended family. “Often times, we get pulled into that [big family celebration], and happily so,” she explained, emphasizing the close-knit nature of their family within a larger family unit.
When asked about Spielberg’s role in the holiday festivities, Capshaw revealed that while a full Santa Claus suit might not be his style, festive “Santa jammies” are a common sight. “I’ve seen some Santa jammies. I have photo documentation. There’s definitely Santa jammies. Santa’s suit? I have not seen,” she quipped, adding that the Jurassic Park director might be “inspired” to don the full suit after hearing about the interview.
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Capshaw, who has four children with her husband Christopher Gavigan, also discussed the realities of holiday vacations with kids. She humorously noted that vacations transform into “family trips,” emphasizing that the focus shifts from relaxation to shared experiences. “We realized when we went on our first holiday vacation [with kids] — we were like, ‘Oh, vacations really aren’t vacations. They’re family trips.’ They’re trips with your family. Vacation and holiday became something totally different.”
Despite the busy nature of the holidays, Capshaw expressed her excitement for the upcoming time with her family. Having been working extensively, she shared that she was looking forward to enjoying the weekend with her daughters and embracing the Christmas season. “So in my mind, I’ve pinned tonight — which is Friday night — to be here with some of my girls and have a really great time and then enjoy the weekend. Then Monday is the Monday before Christmas.”
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On the topic of raising teenagers, Capshaw shared that her daughters are now old enough to watch her in Grey’s Anatomy. She reflected on how she initially thought her children would never watch the show due to their young age, but it has now become a shared experience, connecting different generations. “I remember thinking my children will never watch it because they were so tiny, and now they have friends who are watching it, and they’re watching it, and it’s become this multigenerational thing where it’s wild,” she commented.
Capshaw admitted to feeling a slight panic when her daughters started watching the show, recognizing its mature themes. However, she emphasized her open communication with them, ensuring they feel comfortable discussing any questions that arise. “The thing is, they roll with it,” she said. “But I’m always, like, ‘My door is open for questions.’ ” She concluded by highlighting the importance of open communication and creating a safe space for her children to discuss the show’s content.
