The McCallister family from the iconic Christmas movie Home Alone has reunited for the first time in 30 years, stirring excitement and nostalgia among fans of the beloved 1990 classic. Kristin Minter, Michael C. Maronna, Devin Ratray, Angela Goethals, and Jedidiah Cohen, who portrayed Kevin McCallister’s siblings and cousins, gathered for a meet-and-greet event at Pandora’s Box Toys & Collectibles in Lafayette, New Jersey.
This memorable reunion serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of Home Alone and its impact on pop culture.
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A Long-Awaited Reunion
The weekend event marked the first time in three decades that these cast members had come together in public. Fans were thrilled to meet the actors behind some of the most memorable McCallister family characters: Linnie (Angela Goethals), Buzz (Devin Ratray), Jeff (Michael C. Maronna), Heather (Kristin Minter), and Rod (Jedidiah Cohen). Together, they posed for pictures, signed memorabilia, and even recreated the playful sibling camaraderie from the film with a silly conga line.
The gathering was not just a celebration of the film but also a chance for fans to reconnect with a piece of their childhood. The photos shared on social media captured the warmth and humor that the cast still shares after all these years. For many attendees, the event was a nostalgic journey back to the early 1990s when Home Alone first graced movie screens and captured hearts worldwide.
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The Original Magic of Home Alone
Directed by Christopher Columbus and written by the legendary John Hughes, Home Alone was a box-office phenomenon. Made on a modest $18 million budget, the film grossed a staggering $476 million globally, becoming one of the most successful comedies of all time. Its mix of slapstick humor, heartfelt moments, and memorable performances made it an instant classic, particularly during the holiday season.
Central to the movie’s success was its young star, Macaulay Culkin, who played Kevin McCallister, the resourceful 8-year-old left to defend his home against two bumbling burglars. Kevin’s wit, charm, and ingenuity made him a cultural icon, while the McCallister family’s chaotic dynamic added depth and hilarity to the story.
While the reunion lacked appearances from Macaulay Culkin or Catherine O’Hara, who played Kevin’s mother, the event was a heartwarming reminder of the strong familial ties that were central to the film’s charm. As O’Hara noted during Culkin’s Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony in 2023, Home Alone was more than just a comedy; it was a story about the love and resilience of family, even in the most chaotic of circumstances.
Life After Home Alone
The lives and careers of the reunited cast members have taken varied paths since their Home Alone days, reflecting their diverse talents and interests.
Devin Ratray (Buzz McCallister)
Ratray, who played Kevin’s antagonistic older brother Buzz, has remained active in Hollywood. Known for his comedic timing and memorable one-liners, Ratray has continued to appear in film and television. Recent credits include roles in the acclaimed TV series Better Call Saul and Steven Soderbergh’s thriller Kimi. His ability to balance humor and drama has allowed him to carve out a lasting career in the industry.
Michael C. Maronna (Jeff McCallister)
Maronna, who portrayed Kevin’s older brother Jeff, has embraced a career behind the scenes. Although he has taken on occasional acting roles, he is better known today for his work as part of the electrical crew on notable television productions such as Nurse Jackie, Jessica Jones, and The Good Fight. His technical expertise has made him a respected figure in the industry, even as fans still fondly remember his portrayal of Jeff.
Angela Goethals (Linnie McCallister)
Goethals, the actress behind Kevin’s sarcastic sister Linnie, has continued acting in film and television. Her roles in classics like Jerry Maguire and Spanglish showcase her versatility as an actress. While she has stepped away from the limelight in recent years, her contributions to Home Alone remain a cherished part of her legacy.
Kristin Minter (Heather McCallister)
Minter, who played Heather, the eldest cousin, found success in television after Home Alone. Her nine-season run as Randi Fronczak on ER is among her most notable achievements. Minter’s ability to transition seamlessly between comedic and dramatic roles has ensured her longevity in the entertainment industry.
Jedidiah Cohen (Rod McCallister)
Cohen, who portrayed Kevin’s cousin Rod, decided to leave acting after reprising his role in Home Alone 2: Lost in New York. Despite stepping away from the limelight, his contributions to the film have left an indelible mark on its legacy.
