Christie Brinkley, known for her work as an actress and supermodel, stars alongside Steve Guttenberg in the film American Summer. The movie, released on September 4, celebrates simpler times and strong family bonds. Brinkley, at 72, emphasized that these themes resonate with her personal values, as she has always sought to create a welcoming home for her adult children.

The film follows Guttenberg’s character reflecting on a childhood summer marked by baseball, first love, and the loss of his father, a U.S. Army serviceman. Brinkley shared that she has always prioritized family, building her life around the idea that while her children should be independent, they always have a home to return to for holidays and weekends.

“I want my kids to live their own lives, but they know they can always come back,” Brinkley explained.

Brinkley’s children, Alexa Ray Joel, Jack Paris Brinkley-Cook, and Sailor Brinkley-Cook, remain central in her life. She often appears with them at public events, demonstrating the strong bond they share.

After losing both parents in 2012, Brinkley deeply values family time. Her father, Don, passed away in July, and her mother, Marge, in September that year. This experience intensified her appreciation for family moments.

Steve Guttenberg, also familiar with family hardships, paused his career to care for his father with kidney failure. He reflected on Brinkley’s dedication to her parents, noting the importance of having loved ones close by.

The film American Summer reminds audiences of small-town familial connections. Brinkley believes such stories resonate with people today, encouraging them to connect face-to-face instead of through screens. She cherishes moments like sitting by a fire, enjoying nature and slowing life’s pace.

“Being together, enjoying nature, and connecting with people is priceless,” she affirmed.

Brinkley’s love for simple pleasures extends beyond family gatherings. She is an avid birdwatcher, a hobby that reflects her appreciation for nature and slowing down. This pastime, she notes, is gaining popularity as people seek to disconnect from the digital world.

After raising three children, Brinkley believes making time for family encourages loved ones to return home. Her experiences highlight the enduring importance of family connections and simple joys.