“Home Alone” became an unforgettable holiday classic after its 1990 release, but where is the cast now? From child star Macaulay Culkin to comedy icon Catherine O’Hara, here’s a look at their journey more than three decades later.
“Home Alone” instantly won hearts with its hilarious take on family chaos and a young boy’s solo holiday adventure. Directed by Chris Columbus, the film introduced unforgettable characters and scenes that have become Christmas-time staples.
With its success, the cast members became household names. Some actors went on to enjoy Hollywood fame, while others moved into quieter pursuits. Take a look at what happened to the “Home Alone” cast and where life took them after the movie’s premiere.
What Happened to Macaulay Culkin?
Macaulay Culkin became a household name at just ten years old, thanks to his unforgettable portrayal of Kevin McCallister in “Home Alone.” As Kevin, Culkin played a clever, resourceful boy who gets accidentally left behind when his family flies off for a Christmas vacation.
With this early fame, Culkin reportedly amassed a substantial fortune, estimated at around $50 million, before stepping away from the industry in his teens. In the years that followed, however, the actor’s fame came with challenges.
His parents’ separation in 1995 led to a contentious custody battle. This legal fight wasn’t just over Culkin and his siblings; it also centered around control of his substantial earnings.
Macaulay Culkin starred as Kevin McCallister in “Home Alone,” catapulting to fame at just ten years old. His clever and mischievous character became an iconic part of holiday cinema, making Culkin one of the most recognized child stars of the ’90s. | Source: YouTube/Rotten Tomatoes Classic Trailers
Macaulay Culkin attended the 1991 American Comedy Awards, where he was celebrated for his role in “Home Alone.” At just ten years old, Culkin’s performance made him a star, and he quickly became one of the most popular child actors of the early ’90s. | Source: Getty Images
Macaulay Culkin, pictured around 1992, was at the height of his fame following the success of “Home Alone.” As one of the most sought-after young actors of the early ’90s, Culkin’s career captivated audiences worldwide before he took a step back from Hollywood. | Source: Getty Images
Ultimately, Culkin sided with his mother, which led to a complete rift with his father. Years later, the child star’s father remarked, “I don’t consider him a son anymore.”
At age 14, Culkin made a life-altering decision: he legally emancipated himself from his parents, ending their financial and personal control over his career and fortune. In the following years, the actor tried to live away from Hollywood’s glare, briefly returning to school and taking time to find his path outside of acting.
At 17, he even married actress Rachel Miner, though they separated just two years later. Despite his efforts to retreat from the spotlight, Culkin remained a focus for the media. In 2012, after his breakup with his longtime girlfriend Mila Kunis, rumors circulated about his health as he appeared gaunt and withdrawn.
Stories alleged addiction, linking his appearance to friendships with musicians like Adam Green and Pete Doherty. Though Culkin was once arrested for possession of marijuana and prescription medications, he later clarified that his health was never as dire as the tabloids suggested.
“The thing that bugged me was tabloids wrapping it all in this weird guise of concern. No, you’re trying to shift papers,” he said. In 2023, the actor was honored on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, marking his long and unique career.
During the ceremony, Culkin shared his gratitude to his fiancée, actress Brenda Song, whom he met in 2017. The couple, who share two sons, attended the ceremony together, making their first red carpet appearance as a family.
Brenda Song and Macaulay Culkin at the ceremony honoring the actor with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on December 1, 2023. The couple, joined by their child, celebrated this milestone, with Song showing steadfast support for Culkin’s accomplishments over the years. | Source: Getty Images
Macaulay Culkin at the star ceremony where he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2023. Culkin reflected on his journey from early stardom to receiving this prestigious recognition. | Source: Getty Images
“I’d like to thank Brenda. You’re absolutely everything. You’re my champion. You’re the only person happier for me today than I am. You’re the best woman I’ve ever known,” Culkin, 44, said.
“You’ve given me all my purpose. You’ve given me family. And after the birth of our two boys, you’ve become one of my three favorite people,” the actor continued.
What Happened to Catherine O’Hara?
Catherine O’Hara became an unforgettable part of “Home Alone” as Kevin’s frantic and determined mother, Kate McCallister. Her role as the caring but overwhelmed mom who races home after realizing she accidentally left her son behind showcased her knack for blending comedy with heartfelt moments.
While O’Hara was already an established star before “Home Alone,” her career took on new dimensions in the following years. She had already gained acclaim for her roles in “Beetlejuice” and several mockumentaries directed by Christopher Guest, which highlighted her unique comedic style.
It was during her work on “Beetlejuice” that she met production designer Bo Welch, who would later become her husband. “Well, I was in ‘Beetlejuice,’ and the production designer, Bo Welch was very attractive, and he finally asked me out. We went on location at the end of the movie, and we started dating,” the actress revealed.
Her relationship with Welch eventually brought her to Los Angeles, where she moved to be closer to him. They married on April 25, 1992, and soon after welcomed two sons, Matthew and Luke, in 1994 and 1997, respectively.
Catherine O’Hara in “Home Alone.” As Kevin’s frantic mother, Kate McCallister, O’Hara balanced humor and heart, making her character unforgettable in this holiday classic. | Source: YouTube/Rotten Tomatoes Classic Trailers
Catherine O’Hara at the 69th Annual Academy Awards Nominees Luncheon on March 11, 1997, in Beverly Hills, California. By this time, O’Hara had already established herself as a versatile actress, celebrated for her unique comedic talents. | Source: Getty Images
Catherine O’Hara and her family at “The Cat In The Hat” premiere in 2003 in Universal City, California. A devoted mother, O’Hara balanced her busy Hollywood career with family life, a priority for her throughout the years. | Source: Getty Images
Catherine O’Hara at the premiere of “Road Diary: Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band” on October 21, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. Now 70, O’Hara remains an admired figure in Hollywood, known for her roles in iconic films and her Emmy-winning turn on “Schitt’s Creek.” | Source: Getty Images
Over the years, O’Hara’s career continued to flourish, and she became one of Hollywood’s most beloved comedy actors. Her standout role as Moira Rose in the hit series “Schitt’s Creek” brought her widespread acclaim and a whole new generation of fans.
Her portrayal of the eccentric former soap star earned her an Emmy Award and made Moira Rose an instantly iconic character, known for her outrageous fashion and distinctive accent. Now at 70, the actress enjoys a legacy that spans decades and showcases her versatility in both film and television.
What Happened to Joe Pesci?
Joe Pesci brought unforgettable comedic energy to “Home Alone” as Harry, one of the two bumbling burglars known as the “Wet Bandits.” His portrayal of Harry added a humorous edge to the movie’s suspenseful scenes, making “Home Alone” an instant classic.
Pesci became a celebrated actor by the ‘90s, known for iconic roles in films like “Goodfellas” and “Casino.” However, he decided to step away from acting in the early 2000s.
Moving into a form of semi-retirement, he focused on music, specifically jazz, where he performed under the pseudonym Joe Doggs. He also enjoyed spending time with family and honing his golf game.
Joe Pesci at the screening of “A Perfect World” in 1993. Known for his intense roles, Pesci often balanced his crime dramas with lighter performances, including his unforgettable role as Harry in “Home Alone.” | Source: Getty Images
Joe Pesci on the set of “The Irishman” on October 19, 2017, in New York. After years of semi-retirement, Pesci made a powerful return to acting, including reuniting with Martin Scorsese for this acclaimed film. | Source: Getty Images
Joe Pesci at “The Irishman” premiere during the 57th New York Film Festival on September 27, 2019, in New York. At 76, Pesci captivated audiences once again, showcasing his enduring talent and versatility in a new era of cinema. | Source: Getty Images
However, in 2007, Pesci briefly returned to film for the drama “Love Ranch,” marking a rare comeback since his last major role in 1999. His life has included colorful experiences, from stand-up gigs in ’60s nightclubs to encounters with real-life mobsters, three marriages, and welcoming a daughter.
However, he insisted, “I’m a bore. I save all my energy for my characters.” Now 81, Pesci’s contributions to film have left an indelible mark, with his work in both crime dramas and comedy demonstrating a rare versatility.
What Happened to Daniel Stern?
Daniel Stern played Marv, the hapless partner-in-crime to Pesci’s Harry in “Home Alone.” As one-half of the “Wet Bandits,” Stern’s comedic timing and slapstick antics made Marv an enduringly funny character, especially in the elaborate traps set by Kevin.
After “Home Alone,” Stern built a strong presence in Hollywood, proving himself as a versatile actor beyond comedy. He appeared in notable films such as “City Slickers” and its sequel, and lent his voice as the narrator for the beloved series “The Wonder Years.”
Off-screen, Stern embraced a fulfilling family life. He and his wife, actress Laure Mattos, have been married since 1980 and share three children: daughters Ella and Sophie and son Henry, who later pursued a career in politics and became a California state senator.
To this day, the actor remains active in Hollywood, continuing to add new projects to his impressive filmography.
Daniel Stern and his wife Laure Mattos at the “For the Boys” premiere on November 14, 1991, in Beverly Hills, California. Stern, known for his role as Marv in “Home Alone,” balanced a thriving Hollywood career with family life alongside his longtime wife. | Source: Getty Images
Daniel Stern at the “Earth To LA – The Greatest Show On Earth” event on May 6, 2004, in Los Angeles, California. Stern continued to expand his career through acting, voice work, and even art, remaining a versatile figure in entertainment. | Source: Getty Images
What Happened to John Heard?
John Heard, who played Kevin’s father, Peter McCallister, in “Home Alone,” added a sense of warmth and humor to the film as the well-meaning, though often frazzled, dad who unknowingly left his son behind.
Heard was already a recognized actor before “Home Alone,” having starred in several prominent ’80s and ’90s films, including “Big” and “Beaches.”
After his work on “Home Alone,” he continued to make a mark in Hollywood with roles in both film and television. One of his notable performances was in the acclaimed series “The Sopranos,” where he played a recurring role as Detective Vin Makazian.
Sadly, in July 2017, Heard passed away at 71 in Palo Alto, California. The actor was found unresponsive in a hotel room, where he had been recovering from minor back surgery at nearby Stanford Medical Center, according to reports.
Heard was survived by three children, including his son, John Matthew Heard, with actress Melissa Leo, and two children, daughter Annika, and son Maxwell, with his ex-wife Sharon Heard. Tragically, Maxwell had passed away the previous year at 22.
Throughout his career, Heard built a legacy as a versatile actor who brought sincerity and depth to every role. His portrayal of Peter McCallister in “Home Alone” remains a cherished part of his legacy, allowing him to be remembered by audiences who continue to enjoy the film year after year.
John Heard photographed during the 2006 Sundance Film Festival on January 22 in Park City, Utah. Known for his role as Kevin’s father, Peter McCallister, in “Home Alone,” Heard remained a respected figure in Hollywood through a steady career in film and television. | Source: Getty Images
John Heard at the premiere of “The Lost Tree” on March 18, 2016, in North Hollywood, California. In one of his later public appearances, Heard continued to be celebrated for his versatile roles and lasting impact on the film industry. | Source: Getty Images
From Macaulay Culkin’s unforgettable role as Kevin to the seasoned talent of Catherine O’Hara, each actor brought something unique to this beloved holiday classic. As their lives and careers evolved, they found success, faced personal challenges, and created new chapters both on and off the screen.
