History of Sarah Michelle Gellar in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 18, 2026

Sarah Michelle Gellar, also known as Sarah Michelle Prinze, is a celebrated American actress. She's recognized for her portrayals of strong female characters across both film and television. Gellar has earned the title of "scream queen" due to her significant contributions and performances within the horror genre.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Legacy & Impact

1997: Meeting Freddie Prinze Jr.

In 1997, Sarah Michelle Gellar met her future husband, Freddie Prinze Jr., while filming the teen horror film, I Know What You Did Last Summer.

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1998: Named Top Entertainer

In 1998, Sarah Michelle Gellar was featured on Entertainment Weekly's Top 12 Entertainers of the Year list and People magazine's "Most Beautiful" list, solidifying her rising fame.

1999: FHM's Sexiest Woman

In 1999, Sarah Michelle Gellar was voted number one in FHM's "100 Sexiest Women" of the year, and was featured in multiple international editions of the magazine.

2000: Beginning to date Freddie Prinze Jr.

In 2000, Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze Jr. began dating after having met in 1997.

April 2001: Engagement to Freddie Prinze Jr.

In April 2001, Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze Jr. got engaged, marking a significant step in their relationship.

September 1, 2002: Marriage to Freddie Prinze Jr.

On September 1, 2002, Sarah Michelle Gellar married Freddie Prinze Jr. in Mexico. The ceremony was officiated by Adam Shankman.

2002: Woman of the Year Award and Wax Figure Unveiled

In 2002, Sarah Michelle Gellar was honored with a Woman of the Year Award by Glamour magazine, and her wax figure by Madame Tussauds was unveiled as part of the "Trail of Vampires" exhibition.

2003: Google's Top 10 Women Searches

In 2003, Sarah Michelle Gellar was featured in Google's Top 10 Women Searches, marking her second consecutive year after first appearing in 2002.

2004: Glamour's 50 Best Dressed Women

In 2004, Sarah Michelle Gellar was featured in Glamour's 50 Best Dressed Women in the World list.

2005: Glamour's 50 Best Dressed Women

In 2005, Sarah Michelle Gellar made another appearance in Glamour's 50 Best Dressed Women in the World list, marking her second consecutive year.

2007: UK Channel 4's Sex Symbol Ranking

In 2007, Sarah Michelle Gellar was included in UK Channel 4's 100 Greatest Sex Symbols, ranking at No. 16.

2007: Name Change to Sarah Michelle Prinze

In 2007, in honor of her fifth wedding anniversary, Sarah Michelle Gellar legally changed her name to Sarah Michelle Prinze.

2008: Named Woman of the Year by Maxim

In 2008, Sarah Michelle Gellar was named Woman of the Year by Maxim magazine, adding to her several appearances on their annual "Hot 100" list between 2002 and 2008.

2009: Birth of Daughter

In 2009, Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze Jr. welcomed their first child, a daughter.

2011: BuddyTV's 100 Sexiest Women

In 2011, Sarah Michelle Gellar was included in BuddyTV's 100 Sexiest Women list.

2012: Birth of Son

In 2012, Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze Jr. had their second child, a son, expanding their family.

February 10, 2021: Support for Charisma Carpenter

On February 10, 2021, Sarah Michelle Gellar publicly supported her Buffy the Vampire Slayer co-star, Charisma Carpenter, following Carpenter's allegations of abuse against the series creator, Joss Whedon. Gellar also expressed her desire to not be forever associated with Joss Whedon.

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