Here Are What the Kid Actors From Classic ’80s and ’90s Movies Look Like Today
If you grew up during the ’80s or ’90s, and all the entertainment that came with those decades, then you’ve come to the right place. The child actors on this list provided stellar performances in all types of films, becoming household names along the way. While some of them stuck around in the industry, others chose a different path. Today, we walk you down the hall of fame of child actors from those decades and what they’re up to now.
Devin Ratray – Home Alone | Then
Famous for his role as the annoying yet caring elder brother in smash-hit Home Alone, Buzz McCallister and the other child actors of the franchise quickly rose to stardom for the quirky plot and their equally convincing acting.
Before and after the success of the beloved children’s film, Ratray landed smaller roles in films like Little Monsters, Dennis the Menace, Worth Winning, and The Prince and Me.
Devin Ratray – Home Alone | Now
Sadly, for Ratray, his acting career never fully took off. Despite the promise in his performance, he had to stick to minor roles and voice acting. He appeared in the 2013 films Nebraska and Blue Rain.
Some of the bigger projects where he played a part include Masterminds, Rough Night, and the 2019 critically acclaimed release Hustlers. Ratray has been significantly more active on the silver screen, picking up cameos or recurring roles here and there.
Mara Wilson – Matilda | Then
Even before the incredible success of Matilda, Mara Wilson was set for success. With roles in movies like Mrs. Doubtfire, Miracle on 34th Street, and Thomas and the Magic Railroad, Wilson was one of the most prominent child actors of the ‘90s.
Matilda won her three nominations and one award. She retired from acting in 2000 to concentrate on writing and made her return to the industry in 2012. Wilson retired from film acting but began stage acting.
Mara Wilson – Matilda | Now
Mara Wilson has been affiliated with Hollywood very lightly, mostly focusing on her writing career. She has a recurring role as ‘The Faceless Old Woman Who Secretly Lives in Your Home’ on the podcast, Welcome to the Night Vale.
In 2016, she returned to television for a very brief period to star in an episode inspired by Mrs. Doubtfire for the show Broad City. She lent her voice to BoJack Horseman and Big Hero 6: The Series.