Former child star Mara Wilson reveals why she left Hollywood after ‘Matilda’
Mara Wilson, known for her role in "Matilda," opens up about leaving acting at 37, sharing how growing up changed her career.
The rise and fall of child actors in Hollywood often brings both joy and heartbreak to the public eye. Mara Wilson, once beloved for her roles in family classics like Mrs. Doubtfire and Matilda, experienced the full weight of early fame and the personal challenges that followed.
Her story is a striking reminder of how the entertainment industry can build stars up only to push them aside when they no longer fit its mold. Wilson’s journey, from the limelight to a quieter life as a writer, is filled with lessons about self-worth and resilience.
Born in 1987, Mara Wilson captured hearts when she appeared alongside Robin Williams in Mrs. Doubtfire at the tender age of five. It was the role that launched her into stardom. Wilson continued to win fans with her performance in Miracle on 34th Street and, perhaps most memorably, as the telekinetic Matilda in the 1996 film based on Roald Dahl’s novel.
Yet, behind the scenes, Wilson’s life was anything but magical. She was grappling with the pressures of fame, the loss of her mother to breast cancer, and the strain of being in the public eye at such a young age.
As she grew older, Hollywood’s infatuation with Wilson’s cuteness faded, and the roles stopped coming. In an industry that often discards young stars as they age, Wilson’s experience was no exception. Reflecting on this transition, Wilson once said, “Hollywood was burned out on me,” explaining that if you’re no longer the “cute” child star, you become invisible. This feeling of rejection shaped much of her adolescent years, leading her to step away from acting.
Though Hollywood may have moved on, Wilson did not disappear. Instead, she found a new passion: writing. In her 2016 memoir, Where Am I Now? True Stories of Girlhood and Accidental Fame, Wilson shares her experiences, including how growing up in the spotlight affected her and how she navigated her way out of it. Now, as a writer, she reflects on the industry’s unrealistic standards and the importance of finding self-worth beyond external validation.
Backstage at @OkaytoSayTX supporting #mentalhealth awareness and destigmatization! pic.twitter.com/IqfFkuRiPj
— Mara Wilson (@MaraWilson) March 8, 2018
Mara Wilson’s story is a powerful reminder of the complexities of fame, particularly for child actors. It challenges us to think about how we view and treat those who entertain us, especially when they are just children themselves.
What do you think about Mara Wilson’s journey? Do you believe Hollywood can do better when it comes to supporting young actors? Share your thoughts in the comments and let’s discuss!
