If there’s one thing we’ve learned over the years, it’s that Hollywood isn’t particularly kind to child actors. Many struggle to come to terms with the early success, while others spiral out of control in the lavish West Coast lifestyle. For Macaulay Culkin, things have never been better. Let’s take a look at the many ups (and the few downs) of the real-life Kevin McCallister.
The Home Alone Years
Chris Columbus’s Home Alone launched Culkin’s career to unexpected heights. Even now, 35 years later, most people remember the actor for his iconic role in this holiday classic. This was both a blessing and a curse for someone like Culkin, who thrives on reinventing himself. Unlike other child actors, however, Culkin embraces the spirit of Kevin McCallister, especially since his own kids, Dakota and Carson, love Home Alone.
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Growing Up in Public
Back in 2012, the internet was surprised to see the radical change in Macaulay Culkin’s appearance. For many who were used to seeing him as a bright-eyed child star, the image of an older, slightly disheveled Culkin gave them a bit of an emotional whiplash. Though Culkin has vehemently denied ever being an addict, the pictures were shocking, to say the least, leading some to think he was yet another “troubled” young star.
Finding Peace With Brenda Song
Around 2017, Culkin began dating Brenda Song, another teen actress who fans fondly remember for her numerous Disney Channel performances. Their shared understanding of the entertainment industry—and how it treats younger talents—strengthened their bond. Song has been an extremely positive influence in Culkin’s life, and even changed his “troubled” image for a more successful “family man” persona.
The New Mr. McCallister
Song and Culkin’s first child, Dakota Song Culkin, was born in 2021, while his brother, Carson, was born in late 2022. Culkin, who had issues with his own upbringing, promised to become a more involved father with his children. Since then, he’s fully embraced the “suburban dad” mentality—and that includes wearing Crocs, something he once vowed would never happen.
Parenthood also brought a new sense of self for the former child star. Now, Culkin appears more grounded, which might also have something to do with his partner, as Culkin once half-jokingly told the Daily Mail, Song had to introduce him to “Even the most basic grooming habits.”
A Consummate Performer
Whether he’s a family man or a child acting prodigy, Macaulay Culkin has always been on a quest to find new ways to entertain his audience. Culkin has long moved away from the pressures of mainstream success, embracing television and online content creation instead.
His superb performance as a troubled screenwriter in American Horror Story: Double Feature was easily a career-defining moment for the star. Paired with his Bunny Ears podcast, it’s safe to say that, even if he embraces his past, Culkin has his sights aimed straight at the future. He has finally achieved something rarer than fame: a life that feels genuinely his own.
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