Sally Field has had a fulfilling career in the entertainment industry, and over the years, she’s built a close-knit family with her children. Her son Sam Greisman, 38, has shared countless memories of their time together in a moving 2023 essay for PEOPLE, reflecting on the bond they share. From supporting him when he came out as gay to being a constant source of love and care, Field’s impact on her children is evident. However, one memory from her Steel Magnolias days has sparked a light-hearted joke between mother and son, with Greisman humorously attributing part of his sexuality to the time he spent on set with some legendary stars.

Field’s second son, Sam, was born shortly before she shot Steel Magnolias, the 1989 comedy-drama that became a cultural touchstone. She starred alongside an impressive ensemble of women, including Shirley MacLaine, Dolly Parton, Julia Roberts, and Olympia Dukakis. With a newborn at home, Field would bring Sam to set, where her co-stars would take turns caring for him. “Sam was on the set all the time and my friends took care of him,” she recalled, explaining how they would shop together and play “silly” games during weekends. “We all just rolled him around, and Dolly [wiggling] her fingernails [at him].”

This family-like atmosphere on set left a lasting impact on Field and her son. In a heartwarming moment, Field shared that she has a photo of the wrap party from Steel Magnolias, where she is holding Sam as an infant. In the picture, the smiles on the faces of her co-stars — MacLaine, Roberts, and Parton — are directed past the camera, but Field lovingly holds Sam’s head in her arms to protect his ears from the loud noise. With a laugh, Field added, “Sam has always said that that’s probably why he’s gay.” Her playful response shows the close relationship she has with her son, who often jokes about the memorable moment.

For Field, motherhood has always been a central part of her life. She has two other sons, Peter, 56, and Eli, 53, from her first marriage to Steven Craig. “They are my support system, but I am theirs as well,” Field said, proudly noting her role as a grandmother to five grandchildren. Her bond with Sam, however, seems particularly special, as Greisman has openly shared his deep admiration and love for her.

In his PEOPLE essay, Greisman reflected on his childhood and how he could trace his life through his mother’s career. He recalled building model airplanes and hanging them in their rented home while she filmed Mrs. Doubtfire and how she rewarded him with a new toy when he stopped using his pacifier while she worked on Forrest Gump. These small yet significant moments captured the nurturing way Field balanced her career with her role as a mother.

Sam’s relationship with his mother has been filled with open communication and understanding. In 2022, when he came out as gay, Field’s support was immediate and unconditional. Greisman spoke about the strength of his mother’s support when he presented her with the Ally for Equality Award from the Americans for the Equality Act. He recalled, “When I came out, she didn’t even bat an eye. In fact, she was overjoyed.” For Greisman, the experience was one of acceptance, with his mother embracing his identity and loving him more for it. “Being gay was just one more thing she loved about me,” he said during his speech.

Field’s unwavering love for her son has always been evident, and her reaction to his coming out only reinforced the bond between them. In a world where many individuals face challenges and rejection when revealing their sexual identity, Greisman’s experience with his mother stands out as an example of unconditional love and understanding.

The unique dynamic between Field and Greisman also speaks to the changes in family dynamics and generational shifts. Field’s willingness to openly support her son through every stage of his life has become an integral part of their relationship. With the changing tides of cultural understanding surrounding LGBTQ+ rights, Greisman’s open expression of his sexuality and the nurturing environment he was raised in serve as a testament to the power of family support and acceptance.

As much as Greisman’s joke about his time spent on set with Steel Magnolias stars is playful, it underscores the lifelong connection between mother and son. Their shared experiences and memories form the foundation of their relationship, and Field’s influence on Greisman extends far beyond the sets of Mrs. Doubtfire and Steel Magnolias.

Field’s role as a mother, especially as a public figure in the entertainment industry, highlights the challenges and rewards of balancing a career with raising a family. Throughout her career, Field has achieved major success, but the love and support she has for her children has always been at the core of her identity. Sam Greisman, in particular, has always praised her for being an exceptional mother, one who provided him with the space to be himself while also helping him navigate the complex world of fame and identity.

Now, as she stars in Remarkably Bright Creatures on Netflix, Field continues to prove her talent and versatility as an actress, while still maintaining a close relationship with her children. Her portrayal of Tova in the new drama has been widely praised for its depth and emotional resonance, showcasing a side of Field that has only grown stronger with time. As a mother, actress, and role model, Field’s life is an inspiring testament to the power of love, family, and resilience.

In the end, Field’s relationship with Sam Greisman serves as a beautiful reminder that family bonds can remain strong, no matter how far one’s career takes them. Their shared moments, from their lighthearted jokes to their heartfelt conversations, reflect the enduring strength of unconditional love. Sally Field’s journey as both a mother and an acclaimed actress highlights the impact a supportive, loving family can have on personal growth and success. Sam Greisman’s reflections on his upbringing and his unwavering bond with his mother continue to inspire fans and provide insight into the nurturing side of one of Hollywood’s most celebrated stars.