This time of year, as you indulge in your favorite classic Christmas movies, you may find yourself wondering what happened to the actors who brought them to life.
With Christmas movies, we tend to watch the same films year after year. They become as integral to the Christmas tradition as the Douglas Fir, stockings lining the fireplace, and exchanging gifts on Christmas morning. So we've become quite familiar with Christmas classics that are decades old as well as the actors who appear in them. But what happened to the stars on screen in all those years since the film originally came out?
If you've found yourself asking that question, then you've come to the right place. We did some digging to see what these iconic actors have been up to. Some have gone on to have robust careers in the film industry, either as actors or behind the scenes. Others veered from the acting path entirely and let new passions take hold of them.
There are a wide variety of familiar faces on this list. Actors from "Home Alone" and "Love Actually" to "It's A Wonderful Life" and "Elf" all make an appearance. Read on to see where the actors in your favorite Christmas classics landed.
Sofia Vassilieva in 'Eloise at Christmastime'
New York Daily New Archive/Getty Images; Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images
In "Eloise at Christmastime," Sofia Vassilieva won hearts as a sweet six-year-old in New York's Plaza Hotel.
Today, Vassilieva is still in the acting scene. In 2021, she starred in "The Little Things," a crime drama featuring Denzel Washington and Jared Leto. She also took on a role in the well-received mini-series "Looking for Alaska," telling the story of a teenager navigating love in a boarding school setting.
Karolyn Grimes in 'It's a Wonderful Life'
RKO Radio Pictures; Beck Starr/Getty Images
At the age of six, Karolyn Grimes graced the screen as Zuzu Bailey in the 1946 classic "It's a Wonderful Life."
She once recalled during an interview an encounter she had while auditioning for the role. The mom of another girl who was reading for the same part "accidentally" spilled coffee on Grimes right before her audition. "It might have intimidated some little girls, but it gave me something to talk about," Grimes told the Independent.
Although her acting career only lasted until the early 1950s, Grimes made a return to the screen in 2020 as a talk show guest in "Canaan Land."
Macaulay Culkin in 'Home Alone'
20th Century Studios; Steve Granitz/Getty Images
Having left an indelible mark with roles in films like "Uncle Buck," "Richie Rich," and the quintessential holiday classic, "Home Alone," Macaulay Culkin stands out as one of the most iconic child stars of the '90s.
Following a hiatus of nearly a decade from acting, Culkin made a comeback to the film scene, taking on roles in "Party Monster" and "Saved!" Beyond acting, he explored his musical side, becoming a vocalist and member of the New York-based comedy rock band, The Pizza Underground. After the band disbanded in 2018, the now 40-year-old transitioned into the role of publisher and CEO of a satirical pop culture website and podcast titled Bunny Ear. In 2023, Caulkin received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Mara Wilson in 'Miracle on 34th Street'
20th Century Studios; Jerod Harris/Getty Images
Mara Wilson, widely recognized for her roles in the 1994 remake of "Miracle on 34th Street" and the 1996 Roald Dahl classic "Matilda," carved a significant space in '90s cinema.
Transitioning away from acting in 2000, Wilson pursued higher education and successfully earned a degree from NYU's Tisch School of the Arts.
In 2016, she delved into the realm of authorship, releasing the book "Where Am I Now?: True Stories of Girlhood and Accidental Fame." This work candidly explores the complexities of navigating childhood fame and fortune.
Although she briefly returned to acting in 2012, gracing the screen in the comedy-drama film "Billie Bob Joe" and featuring in a Mrs. Doubtfire-inspired episode of "Broad City," Wilson has primarily focused on her multifaceted career beyond the spotlight.
Taylor Momsen in 'The Grinch'
Universal; Neilson Barnard/Getty Images
Taylor Momsen, renowned for her portrayal of Cindy Lou in "The Grinch," left an enduring impression by embodying the character that arguably taught us the true meaning of Christmas.
Seven years following her success in the iconic Christmas film, Momsen transitioned to television, taking on the role of the ambitious teen Jenny Humphrey, also known as "Little J," in the equally notable series "Gossip Girl."
Post her departure from the show in 2011, Momsen took a bold step into the world of music, fronting the rock band The Pretty Reckless. Since then, the band has released three albums, showcasing Momsen's versatility beyond the screen.
Johnny Galecki in 'National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation'
Warner Bros.; Michael Loccisano/Getty Images
Johnny Galecki, now a widely recognized actor, made his mark as Rusty in the holiday classic "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" back in 1989.
Following this, Galecki took on a significant role in the American sitcom "Roseanne" in 1992, portraying the character David. Notably, he reprised this role in the 2018 reboot of the show.
However, Galecki's unparalleled fame stems from his portrayal of the nervous scientist Leonard on the immensely popular sitcom "The Big Bang Theory," which concluded its lengthy run in 2021.
Kieran Culkin in 'Home Alone'
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Kieran Culkin, from the same Culkin family as Macaulay, is also an alum of "Home Alone."
Since his involvement in the holiday film, Culkin has ventured into other notable projects, including the cult film "Scott Pilgrim vs. the World." In recent years, he has become a familiar face on the awards circuit, earning numerous nominations (including Golden Globes and Emmys). His acclaimed role as the rogue youngest child, Roman Roy, in the series "Succession" has garnered both critical acclaim and attention in the awards arena.
Rebecca Harrell in 'Prancer'
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In 1989, Rebecca Harrell took on the role of a compassionate farm girl in the heartwarming tale "Prancer," where she tends to a wounded reindeer, believing it to be one of Santa's, with the hopes of healing it in time for Christmas.
In her present pursuits, Harrell has diversified her creative endeavors. She has evolved into a filmmaker, author, and environmental activist. Notably, she co-directed the 2022 film "On Sacred Ground," marking a milestone as the first scripted film to delve into the conflict at Standing Rock.
Thomas Brodie-Sangster in 'Love Actually'
Universal; Netflix
Who could forget the baby-faced Sam from the British Christmas classic "Love Actually"?
Since his days as a Christmas movie star, Thomas Brodie-Sangster has experienced a significant trajectory into adulthood in the world of acting. Notable appearances include roles in "Game of Thrones," "Nowhere Boy," "Nanny McPhee," "The Maze Runner" franchise, and even a small part in "Star Wars: The Force Awakens."
In a heartwarming move, Brodie-Sangster reprised his "Love Actually" role for the charity mini-sequel "Red Nose Day Actually" in 2019. Adding to his list of accomplishments, 2020 brought his biggest role yet as Benny Watts in Netflix's hit series, "The Queen's Gambit."
David Krumholtz in 'The Santa Clause'
Disney
In the festive classics "The Santa Clause" and "The Santa Clause 2," David Krumholtz played the role of Bernard, Santa's right-hand elf, marking just the beginning of his acting journey.
In the present, Krumholtz has woven a diverse career, making notable appearances in popular shows such as "The Newsroom," "Mom," and "The Good Wife," among others. In 2022, he reprised his role as Bernard in an episode of "The Santa Clauses," a Disney+ series adapted from the films.
Catherine O'Hara in 'Home Alone'
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Catherine O'Hara's horrified 'Kevin!' scream remains one of the most iconic lines from the Home Alone franchise.
Since her memorable portrayal as the mother of Kevin McCallister, O'Hara has continued to build an impressive portfolio. Notable credits include her role as Dr. Georgina Orwell in the Netflix series "A Series of Unfortunate Events" and a guest appearance on the popular series "Modern Family."
Most notably, O'Hara was honored with the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for her hilarious performance as the wig aficionado Moira in "Schitt's Creek."
Rufus Sewell in 'The Holiday'
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After playing the bad guy in "The Holiday" who kept Iris (Kate Winslet) as a side chick, Rufus Sewell went on to play other villainous roles in movies like "Judy" and TV shows such as "The Man in the High Castle" and "Victoria."
Beyond these roles, Sewell showcased his versatility by guest-starring in "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" as a mulish and brilliant artist.
Khail Bryant in 'The Perfect Holiday'
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"The Perfect Holiday" stands as a heartwarming Christmas classic, featuring Hollywood heavyweights Gabrielle Union and Queen Latifah. Khail Bryant's portrayal of Union's daughter, Emily, adds a delightful touch to the film.
Post-"The Perfect Holiday," Bryant has secured roles in films like "Alex Strangelove." More recently, she took part in Netflix's time-travel and politically-driven hit, "See You Yesterday" (2019). The film revolves around two teenage prodigies attempting to travel through time to prevent the wrongful killing of C.J.'s brother, Calvin, by a police officer.
Olivia Olson in 'Love Actually'
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In the Christmas classic "Love Actually," the endearing love tale of Sam and Joanna makes for a cheerful holiday experience.
Post her soulful performance of "All I Want For Christmas Is You" in the holiday classic, Olivia Olson has ventured into voice acting, lending her voice to characters like Vanessa Doofenshmirtz in "Phineas and Ferb" and Marceline the Vampire Queen in "Adventure Time."
The artist also pleasantly surprised fans with an unexpected appearance on the X-Factor in 2019, evoking nostalgic Christmas show sentiments for everyone who tuned in.
Zooey Deschanel in 'Elf'
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In "Elf," released in 2003, Zooey Deschanel played disillusioned retail worker Jovie, who is reminded of the spirit of Christmas by Buddy (Will Ferrell).
Post-"Elf," Deschanel became a manic pixie dream girl in films like "500 Days of Summer" and "Failure to Launch."
However, her most notable role came as Jessica Day in "New Girl," earning her the Best Actress in a Comedy Series at the Critics' Choice Television Awards in 2012 and a Golden Globe Award nomination.
Beyond acting, the 43-year-old has maintained a highly successful singing career, even garnering a Grammy Award nomination for Best Song Written for Visual Media.
Rachel McAdams in 'The Family Stone'
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In "The Family Stone," Rachel McAdams takes on the role of Amy Stone, the youngest family member and the main obstacle for Meredith Morton (Sarah Jessica Parker). And let's not forget the wise and strong matriarch, played by none other than Diane Keaton.
Since the relatively overlooked release of "The Family Stone," Rachel McAdams has embarked on a remarkably noteworthy career journey.
A year before the festive film, McAdams left an enduring mark on teen movies with her iconic portrayal of Regina George in "Mean Girls." Following this, she delivered a heart-wrenching performance as Clare Abshire in "The Time Traveler's Wife" and secured a role in the Oscar-winning "Spotlight." From there, her versatility shone through in the hilarious portrayal of Sigrit Ericksdóttir in Netflix's "Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga." McAdams has time and again proven her ability to handle a diverse range of roles.
