Joel McHale, the charismatic comedian and actor best known for The Soup, Community, and Animal Control, is widely recognized for his quick wit and larger-than-life personality on screen. But when it comes to his personal life, particularly his marriage to Sarah Williams McHale, the star has remained notably private—until recently. As the couple enters their 27th year of marriage in 2023, fans have gained a deeper appreciation for the enduring bond between Joel and Sarah, who’ve navigated decades of love, parenting, pets, and Seahawks games with humor and heart.
How Joel McHale Met His Wife, Sarah Williams
Joel McHale met Sarah Williams while attending the University of Washington, where he majored in history and briefly played football. Their first encounter was somewhat serendipitous—Joel, a freshman, met Sarah, then a senior, and immediately thought she was beautiful. However, the spark didn’t ignite immediately. It took three years before fate reconnected them, and Joel made his move—with a little help.
In a candid WIRED interview, Joel revealed, “I called my friend Kim and asked, ‘Hey, do you think you could put a good word in for me with Sarah Williams?’ She said, ‘Good luck.’” Despite the lukewarm odds, Sarah agreed to go out with him, and the rest is history. As Joel jokingly puts it, “I wore her down.”
The couple tied the knot on July 20, 1996, the same year Joel made his TV debut on Almost Live!. To mark their 25th anniversary in 2021, Sarah shared a throwback wedding photo with a heartwarming caption: “All these years with you and I still find you funny… occasionally. You are the best partner in everything, except introversion.”
Who Is Sarah Williams McHale?
While Joel McHale shines in the entertainment spotlight, Sarah Williams McHale prefers a quieter life behind the scenes. She’s an artist who shares her mixed media artwork, sketches, and handmade cards on Instagram. One painting post from 2019 featured Sarah working in her garden while fending off their dog Bean—Joel snapped a candid photo without her knowing, a peek into the playful dynamic they share.
Sarah is also an avid hiker and mountain climber, often joining Joel on outdoor adventures. For Joel’s birthday in 2020, she posted a photo of the two hiking together with the caption: “You cook, clean, pick up dog poop and so much more. I love you forever.”
Their Two Sons: Eddie and Isaac McHale
Joel and Sarah are proud parents of two sons: Edward “Eddie” Roy McHale, born in 2005, and Isaac Hayden McHale, born in 2008. Parenthood has been a transformative experience for the couple, especially as they’ve navigated unique challenges together.
In a 2018 interview on Dax Shepard’s Armchair Expert podcast, Joel shared that both of his sons had been diagnosed with dyslexia. During the diagnostic process, Joel realized he, too, showed symptoms and had likely struggled with the same learning challenges as a child. The discovery brought the family closer, and Joel has since been an advocate for learning disability awareness.
In a 2011 interview, Joel praised Sarah for being the family’s “supermom,” saying, “She just thinks of things I never do. If I were taking care of the kids, they’d be running around in potato sacks.”
Family Life at Home—With Dogs Included
The McHale household includes more than just humans. The couple have three adopted dogs: Beanbag, Cowboy, and Harry, who regularly appear in Instagram posts. From quarantine date nights with Beanbag to family holidays with all the pets in tow, Joel and Sarah clearly cherish their canine companions as part of their family.
In April 2020, Sarah shared a lighthearted Instagram photo of herself and Beanbag during lockdown. “Date night at home again #beanbagthedog,” she wrote, with Joel behind the camera.
Seahawks Sundays and Family Traditions
Both Joel and Sarah are diehard Seattle Seahawks fans. The family frequently attends games together, and in 2018, they celebrated Isaac’s 10th birthday in a special way—meeting Russell Wilson, then the team’s quarterback. Sarah posted a heartfelt photo of the trio at the stadium with the caption, “Thanks @dangerusswilson for making Isaac’s day.”
Joel McHale’s Net Worth and Career Today
As of 2025, Joel McHale’s net worth is estimated at $14 million. His income streams span from acting, hosting, voice work, and endorsements. From The Soup to Community, and more recently in Animal Control, McHale has maintained a consistent presence in entertainment.
Even while juggling a full career, Joel often credits Sarah as his anchor. The couple’s mutual respect and humor-filled marriage continue to be a major part of his identity—though you won’t hear too much about it unless you follow Sarah’s endearing social media posts.
27 Years and Counting
In an industry where relationships often struggle under the spotlight, Joel and Sarah McHale’s 27-year marriage is a refreshing testament to commitment, love, and shared laughter. They met young, married even younger, and continue to navigate life’s ups and downs with grace—and a little good-natured teasing.
