In the 1990s, the Home Alone movies became a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences around the world. Though fans have revisited these films year after year, the fictional McCallister kids had been apart for an astonishing thirty years. But on Sunday, Dec. 8, a remarkable reunion took place at Pandora’s Box Toys & Collectibles in Lafayette, N.J. Devin Ratray, Kristen Minter, Michael Maronna, Angela Goethals, and Jed Cohen came together for a meet and greet that left fans in awe. In the photos shared online, the quintet posed with each other and with their adoring fans. The store's Instagram post exclaimed, "This was the first time they had all been together in over 30 years!"
Remembering the Home Alone Cast
In the original Home Alone, Macaulay Culkin stole the show as Kevin McCallister, the youngest son who was accidentally left at home during Christmas while the family went to Paris. Devin Ratray, now 47, played the eldest brother Buzz. Kristen Minter, 59, brought to life cousin Heather. Michael Maronna, also 47, portrayed brother Jeff, and Angela Goethals, 47, took on the role of sister Linnie. Jed Cohen, 48, rounded out the group as cousin Rod.These talented actors brought the McCallister family to life on screen, creating memories that have endured for decades. Catherine O’Hara played Kevin’s mom, Kate, and John Heard was dad Peter. Hillary Wolf played Kevin’s oldest sister, Megan. For Home Alone 2, Minter and Goethals did not return, but Kieran Culkin, Macaulay’s brother, joined as another cousin.The impact of these movies on families cannot be overstated. As Devin Ratray told PEOPLE, "This film has become legacy and has affected families now for more than one generation. Parents are showing children, children are showing grandchildren something that I was a part of. I don’t know what life has been like without Home Alone, since I just turned 13. I’ve come to realize that this movie, it’s bigger than me. It’s bigger than any actor’s ego. It has become part of indelible imprints in family — in their consciousness."The Significance of the Reunion
The reunion of the Home Alone kids was a moment that fans had been waiting for for a long time. It was a chance for them to see these beloved characters come together again and relive the magic of the movies. For Devin Ratray, it was a chance to reconnect with his costars and share in the memories they had created.As he opened up to PEOPLE about his bond with his Home Alone costars, he said, "They have been planning a reunion online and I just recently, as in a couple of days ago, got on their messenger chat thread, and I have been trying to keep up with Jed Cohen and Diana [Rein] and Terrie [Snell] and Angela Goethals and Hillary Wolf." His participation in the 2021 Home Sweet Home Alone on Disney+ also showed his continued love for the franchise.The Legacy of Home Alone
Home Alone has left an indelible mark on popular culture. The movie's themes of family, adventure, and overcoming adversity have resonated with audiences of all ages. It has become a holiday classic that is watched by generations of families every year.Catherine O’Hara's comments about the movie also highlight its enduring appeal. When asked about the family's wealth, she said, "I was aware of how beautiful it was, but no, I never thought of their money. That’s not where my head was when I was doing [the movie]. Of course, they all went to Paris, didn’t they?" This shows that the movie's charm lies not in its material possessions but in the relationships and experiences it portrays.As we look back on the Home Alone movies and this long-awaited reunion, it is clear that these films have had a lasting impact on our lives. They have brought families together and created memories that will be cherished for years to come.READ MORE