When reflecting on the child stars who defined the 1990s, few left an impression as lasting as Mara Wilson. With her bright intelligence and remarkable poise, she became a generational icon, sharing the screen with Hollywood legends before choosing a different path. Now, as the cherished film Matilda celebrates its 30th anniversary, Wilson is looking back on the role that shaped her youth and the fulfilling creative career she has crafted since stepping away from the spotlight.
A Childhood Illuminated by Stardom
Born on July 24, 1987, Mara Wilson developed an early fascination with acting at just five years old, inspired by watching her older brother in television commercials. Her parents were initially cautious, but after she appeared in several business advertisements, Wilson was called to audition for the 1993 comedy Mrs Doubtfire.
At the tender age of six, she secured the part of Natalie Hillard, holding her own alongside the legendary Robin Williams. She followed this success with another significant role in Miracle on 34th Street, solidifying her status as one of Hollywood's most sought-after young performers.
The Unforgettable Magic of Matilda
However, it was the role of Matilda that truly cemented Wilson's place in cinematic history. In a recent television appearance, she shared how her connection to the character has deepened over the past three decades.
"For a while, Matilda felt like an older sister whose shadow I was living in. I adored the character as a child, and that admiration has only grown," Wilson revealed. "As a young girl, I didn't fully grasp what this character meant to audiences. Now, I feel incredibly fortunate to have brought her to life. It's a privilege I still can't believe was mine."
She expressed amazement at the film's enduring legacy, noting how fans have passed it down through generations. "People grew up with Matilda and are now sharing it with their children, even naming their daughters after her. It continues to astonish me every time," she said.
Personal Heartache Behind the Scenes
Behind the joyful facade of Matilda's production, Wilson faced profound personal tragedy. During filming, her mother Suzie was battling terminal breast cancer. Wilson was only eight years old when her mother passed away.
Director and co-star Danny DeVito ensured that Suzie could witness her daughter's achievement, arranging a private screening of the nearly completed film in her hospital room shortly before her death. Wilson spoke warmly of DeVito's support during this painful period, describing him as a "fun uncle" who provided comfort through unimaginable hardship.
"Knowing my mother saw our work brought me immense happiness. I feel truly blessed to have had Danny in my life during that time," she shared.
Wilson also recalled DeVito's talent for fostering a positive set environment, including a memorable moment that fans still cherish. "The dancing scene was the most enjoyable to film. I was initially nervous, but Danny insisted the entire cast and crew join in, transforming the set into a celebration," she explained.
Choosing a New Direction Away from Hollywood
After appearing in A Simple Wish and Thomas and the Magic Railroad, Wilson stepped back from acting in the early 2000s, taking a twelve-year hiatus to concentrate on writing. She returned to performance in 2012, primarily through web series, but never resumed the conventional Hollywood trajectory many anticipated.
She has since become an outspoken advocate for mental health awareness, openly discussing her diagnoses of OCD, depression, anxiety, and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS).
Embracing Creative Freedom Today
Currently, Wilson works predominantly as a writer, voice actress, and audiobook narrator, roles she finds deeply satisfying. "Voiceover work has always been my absolute favourite. It allows me to portray characters of any age, and with audiobooks, I get to embody every role in the story," she said.
"I have a profound love for writing and storytelling. I create plays, articles, and have published a memoir. Perhaps there will be another book in the future."
Her 2016 memoir Where Am I Now? marked a significant transition, as she moved away from mainstream Hollywood toward creative independence, podcasting, and narrative projects on her own terms.
"I've had the opportunity to travel internationally and still encounter Matilda fans everywhere. Writing and voice acting are immensely rewarding, especially when working with children. I truly cherish it," she reflected.
Three decades later, Mara Wilson may have evolved beyond her most famous character, but she continues to honour the inspirational legacy of Matilda, a role that touched countless lives around the world.
