Eric Winter Declares: ‘I’m Not a Fan of Turkey for Thanksgiving’

In an exclusive interview with Us Weekly, Eric Winter, known for his role on The Rookie, revealed his unconventional views on Thanksgiving cuisine. “I don’t hate turkey, but I’m definitely not on team turkey,” the 48-year-old star stated. He expressed a strong preference for alternatives, saying if turkey is on the table, he’d opt for dark meat or crispy skin. “I’m just not that into turkey,” he added.

However, Winter does have a soft spot for the quintessential Thanksgiving dish: sweet potato casserole topped with marshmallows. He described it as sweet, creamy, and packed with all the right flavors of cinnamon. Pumpkin pie, adorned with whipped cream, also holds a special place in his heart. “It just represents the season; it feels cozy and right. It’s such a fall flavor,” he shared.

While discussing food traditions, Winter noted that his Thanksgiving celebrations have evolved since marrying Puerto Rican actress Roselyn Sánchez in 2008. He appreciates the vibrant flavors that her culture brings to the holiday, saying, “Puerto Rican Thanksgiving is way more exciting than the traditional American version. We enjoy dishes like pasteles, tostones, and mofongo. The diversity in cuisine makes it really fun.”

Beyond the food, Winter expressed his fondness for Thanksgiving leftovers, remarking, “Sometimes the next day’s meal tastes even better when everything is piled on a plate.” He also mentioned that his Palm Republic rum—an entrepreneurial venture he started with Brad Parkes—is a staple at his family gatherings. The inspiration for the rum came from a trip to Puerto Rico, where he discovered his newfound appreciation for the spirit. “I had never been a rum drinker, but after trying it in Puerto Rico, I was hooked. It’s all about bringing people together,” he explained.

Despite Sánchez not partaking in alcohol, Winter affirmed her overwhelming support for his new business, stating that her family backs him wholeheartedly. “In the Caribbean, rum is a staple, similar to whiskey in other cultures,” he noted. Winter and Sánchez, who share two children, Sebella, 12, and Dylan, 7, emphasize a lighthearted approach to both their relationship and their family traditions, maintaining that humor is essential to their dynamic. “Laughter helps us navigate through any disagreements,” he concluded.

As Thanksgiving approaches, Winter’s unique culinary preferences and family traditions set the stage for a holiday celebration that mixes classic American flavors with Puerto Rican flair.