Dennis Quaid has played many memorable roles on screen, but one of his most meaningful roles in real life is that of a father. Among his three children, his youngest son, Thomas Boone Quaid, has a story that stands out—one filled with love, strength, and quiet resilience. Born into a family of fame, Thomas has lived most of his life out of the spotlight, but his early challenges and unique upbringing make his story deeply compelling.
This article explores everything we know about Thomas Boone Quaid—his family background, his dramatic start in life, his relationship with his parents and siblings, and what life looks like for him today. Whether you’re a fan of Dennis Quaid, curious about the next generation of celebrity children, or simply want to understand more about this young man’s journey, this guide will walk you through every detail.
Quick Bio Information
Full Name: Thomas Boone Quaid
Date of Birth: November 8, 2007
Place of Birth: Santa Monica, California
Age (2025): 18 years old
Twin Sister: Zoe Grace Quaid
Father: Dennis Quaid (Actor)
Mother: Kimberly Buffington (Real Estate Agent)
Famous Half-Brother: Jack Quaid
Known For: Being the son of Dennis Quaid
Birth Type: Born via gestational surrogate
Family Background: Inside The Quaid Household
Thomas Boone Quaid was born into a well-known Hollywood family. His father, Dennis Quaid, is one of the most recognizable names in American film, known for movies like The Parent Trap, The Rookie, and Frequency. His mother, Kimberly Buffington, is a successful real estate agent based in Texas. Though not a public figure like Dennis, Kimberly played a central role in raising Thomas and his twin sister, Zoe.
Thomas also has a half-brother, Jack Quaid, from Dennis Quaid’s previous marriage to actress Meg Ryan. Jack has made a name for himself in film and television, starring in hits like The Boys, The Hunger Games, and Oppenheimer. While Thomas comes from a high-profile family, his upbringing has been intentionally kept private—something his parents were committed to from the beginning.
A Memorable Birth: Welcoming the Quaid Twins
Thomas Boone Quaid and his twin sister, Zoe Grace, were born on November 8, 2007, in Santa Monica. Their birth was made possible through a gestational surrogate, a decision that Dennis and Kimberly made together. Thomas arrived first at 8:26 a.m., weighing 6 pounds, 12 ounces. Zoe followed two minutes later, weighing 5 pounds, 9 ounces.
The arrival of the twins was a joyful event, especially for Dennis, who had long expressed a desire to expand his family. He had one older son, Jack, but the birth of Thomas and Zoe gave him the chance to experience fatherhood again—this time in a new phase of life, with a new perspective.
A Scary Start: The Medical Crisis That Changed Everything
Just days after Thomas and Zoe were born, their lives took a frightening turn. Both infants developed staph infections and were admitted to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. While being treated, the twins were accidentally given 1,000 times the recommended dose of the blood thinner Heparin, a potentially lethal error. It was a horrifying moment for Dennis and Kimberly, who only learned about the overdose hours later.
Thankfully, both Thomas and Zoe survived and made a full recovery. But the experience had a lasting impact. The incident received national attention and prompted Dennis Quaid to speak out publicly about medical safety. He and Kimberly later founded The Quaid Foundation, an organization aimed at preventing medical errors and increasing transparency in hospitals. Their painful experience turned into advocacy that has since helped many other families.
Learning to Heal: A Family Changed by Crisis
Dennis Quaid has openly shared how the medical emergency with his twins changed his life. In interviews, he has said it gave him a “greater appreciation of life” and shifted his focus as a parent. Holding his children after nearly losing them brought clarity and deeper gratitude.
This traumatic event also brought the family closer together. Dennis called it the most terrifying period of his life but emphasized how grateful he was that the twins recovered. He described parenting Thomas and Zoe as a joyful, if sometimes exhausting, experience. He also joked that with twins, “you need another arm,” referring to the constant energy and attention it required.
Childhood Away From The Spotlight
Unlike many celebrity children, Thomas Boone Quaid has been raised with an emphasis on privacy and normalcy. Although his father is a major Hollywood star and his older brother is quickly rising in the entertainment world, Thomas has remained largely out of the public eye. Dennis and Kimberly chose to keep their twins away from red carpets and major media events, focusing instead on giving them a grounded, quiet upbringing.
When asked about fatherhood, Dennis often speaks about the little moments—morning car rides, breakfast conversations, and helping with school. He once said his favorite part of the day was taking Thomas and Zoe to school, calling those moments a time of connection and bonding. According to him, the mornings were when his kids were the “freshest,” and that’s when he truly got to know them.
The Bond Between Thomas And Zoe
As twins, Thomas Boone and Zoe Grace Quaid share a deep bond. Being just minutes apart in age, they’ve grown up side by side, experiencing life together from the very beginning. Dennis once joked that even when Thomas wore blue and Zoe wore pink, people still had trouble telling them apart. But beyond appearances, the twins seem to have their own rhythm and understanding of each other.
While very little is known publicly about Zoe’s personal interests, Dennis did mention in 2025 that Zoe was working as a camp counselor in Texas. She was nearby during a dangerous flood near Camp Mystic, though thankfully her camp was unaffected. This brief insight offers a glimpse into the kind of responsible, independent young people both twins are becoming.
Where Thomas Boone Quaid Stands Today
Now 18 years old, Thomas Boone Quaid is stepping into adulthood. While there are no signs that he plans to follow in his father’s or brother’s acting footsteps—at least not yet—he appears to be thriving on his own terms. His academic life has been described as strong, and Dennis once said that Thomas and Zoe were “head of their class,” hinting at their intelligence and work ethic.
Despite his famous last name, Thomas hasn’t been in the media spotlight. This may be a conscious decision by the family, aiming to let him build his identity outside of the Hollywood bubble. With college and new opportunities on the horizon, it remains to be seen what path Thomas will take.
A Close Relationship With Dennis Quaid
One thing that’s clear is that Thomas shares a close bond with his dad. Dennis has been vocal about his love for all three of his children, often calling himself a “dorky dad” who’s just trying to do his best. He says that parenting again later in life gave him the chance to be more present and patient. He has expressed immense pride in Thomas and Zoe, saying they’ve “turned out great.”
In various interviews, Dennis comes across not just as a proud parent, but as someone who genuinely enjoys fatherhood. His relationship with Thomas appears to be based on love, trust, and real everyday connection.
Kimberly Buffington’s Role As A Mother
While Dennis has been in the spotlight, Kimberly Buffington has been a steady and private presence in her children’s lives. After divorcing Dennis, Kimberly continued to co-parent Thomas and Zoe, and by all accounts, has remained deeply involved in their upbringing. She was central during the medical crisis that followed their birth and has prioritized their well-being ever since.
Kimberly’s choice to stay out of the limelight likely gave Thomas and Zoe the space they needed to grow up away from constant attention. Though she doesn’t often speak publicly, her influence is evident in the quiet, balanced life the twins seem to live.
Thomas Among The Quaid Siblings
Thomas Boone Quaid may be the youngest son, but he’s part of a larger blended family. His older half-brother Jack Quaid has been a part of his life since birth. Dennis has spoken about how much Jack wanted a younger sibling and how he immediately bonded with the twins. Thomas and Jack have a warm relationship, and while they live in very different worlds—one in the public eye, the other mostly private—they share a strong family connection.
Thomas also has a half-sister, Daisy True Ryan, Meg Ryan’s daughter from a later adoption. While little is known about their interactions, Dennis once said that all of his children are close and that having this extended sibling group was “fantastic.”
Final Thoughts
Thomas Boone Quaid’s life may have started with a terrifying medical crisis, but what followed was a story of healing, quiet growth, and a loving family committed to doing things differently. While he may not be chasing the spotlight, his story is no less inspiring. Raised with care and privacy, surrounded by family who deeply value connection, Thomas represents the next generation of celebrity kids who are carving out their own identity on their own timeline.
As he steps into adulthood, it’s clear that Thomas has a strong foundation built on resilience, support, and authenticity. Whatever his path, one thing is certain—his story, though mostly private, matters.
FAQs About Thomas Boone Quaid
What Happened To Thomas Boone Quaid At Birth?
Thomas and his twin sister Zoe were accidentally given a dangerously high dose of a blood thinner at just a few days old, but both made a full recovery.
How Old Is Thomas Boone Quaid Now?
Thomas was born on November 8, 2007, so he is 18 years old as of 2025.
Who Are Thomas Boone Quaid’s Parents?
His father is actor Dennis Quaid, and his mother is Kimberly Buffington, a real estate professional.
Does Thomas Boone Quaid Have Any Siblings?
Yes, he has a twin sister named Zoe Grace Quaid and a half-brother named Jack Quaid, who is also an actor.
Is Thomas Boone Quaid In The Public Eye?
No, Thomas lives a very private life. His parents have kept him and his sister mostly away from the spotlight.
What Is The Quaid Foundation?
It’s an organization founded by Dennis Quaid and Kimberly Buffington after the medical accident involving their twins. It raises awareness about medical errors.
Does Thomas Want To Be An Actor Like His Father And Brother?
There is no public information suggesting Thomas is pursuing acting. He appears to be focusing on education and growing up away from the spotlight.
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