James Marsden and Olivia Munn’s surprising connection from high school reveals how their paths crossed before becoming Hollywood stars.
James Marsden and Olivia Munn share a unique history that goes back to their high school days at Putnam City North High School in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Long before they became household names, these two actors had a brief but memorable connection. In an exclusive interview, Marsden opened up about meeting Munn years before they were both famous.
James Marsden’s Exclusive Story with Olivia Munn
Marsden, now 51, and Munn, 44, began filming the second season of the Apple TV+ series Your Friends & Neighbors alongside Jon Hamm earlier this month. While their professional relationship as co-stars is fresh, their personal history dates back to their shared high school experience in Oklahoma. According to Marsden, Munn was close friends with his sister Jenny at school, and they would often hang out together, even enjoying casual meals at Applebee’s.
A Hollywood Reunion: From Oklahoma to GQ Parties
Marsden reminisced about his first meeting with Munn when he visited Oklahoma after moving to Los Angeles to pursue acting. As Marsden achieved success and was recognized in his hometown, his sister invited him to dinner with her friends, one of whom was Olivia Munn. Marsden recalls, “I went back home to see my sister, and she was like, ‘You mind coming to dinner with me and some of my girlfriends from school?’ Olivia [Munn] was one of those girls.”
The two actors would later reconnect years later at a GQ party in Los Angeles. Munn approached Marsden, reminding him of their past connection. “Olivia ran up to me at a GQ party and said, ‘I’m friends with Jenny, your sister, we went to Applebee’s back in the day!’” Marsden laughed, surprised that he didn’t remember the encounter, but happy to now be working together on Your Friends & Neighbors.
James Marsden and Jon Hamm: More Than Co-Stars
In addition to his shared history with Munn, Marsden also has a connection with his co-star Jon Hamm. Marsden revealed that they’ve been part of the same Fantasy Football league for years, further solidifying their bond outside of work.
James Marsden’s Role in X-Men and Avengers: Doomsday
Marsden, who is widely known for his role as Cyclops in the original X-Men trilogy, will reprise his role in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday movie, set for release in May 2026. His role in the X-Men franchise also connects him to Olivia Munn, who portrayed Psylocke in X-Men: Apocalypse (2016). Though their characters never crossed paths in the X-Men universe, their involvement in these iconic Marvel films has linked them in fans’ minds.
Marsden reflected on his career, saying, “I’m going to enjoy the good stuff while we’re firing on all cylinders. It’s been a lot of fun.”
