Top 10 Celebs Interviewed as Kids Who STILL Give the Same Energy

In the 1990s, Mara Wilson was one of the most recognizable child stars, having appeared in iconic films like “Mrs. Doubtfire” and “Matilda.” In the latter, Wilson played the titular character, a mischievous girl who torments her family and strict principal. Although she famously portrayed a vengeful role, Wilson herself exuded an adorable charm, as seen in this 1994 interview on “The Today Show.” At just seven years old, she predicted she wouldn’t act for long and would eventually pursue writing. That prediction ultimately proved accurate, as just six years later, Wilson stepped away from the big screen to focus on writing, penning multiple books and plays. But even as her career path changed, Wilson’s endearing energy remained the same.

For those who only know Anna Chlumsky as an adult actress, they were likely introduced to her as the sharp-tongued Amy Brookheimer on “Veep.” Her impeccable comedic timing on the show earned her six Emmy nominations, but glimpses of that talent appeared much earlier. Back in 1991, the 11-year-old Chlumsky appeared on “Live with Regis and Kathie Lee” to promote her major film debut “My Girl.” Even then, she already had a pretty sharp wit, delivering hilarious responses to some of the hosts’ questions. At one point, when asked about a particular scene, she even flashed her signature, slightly exasperated look. Despite all the years gone by, that facial expression remains unmistakable.

Ever since she made her big screen debut at age nine, Christina Ricci has always been drawn towards ominous, angsty characters. To date, she is probably best known for her breakthrough role, as Wednesday Addams in 1991’s “The Addams Family” and its 1993 sequel. “Entertainment Tonight” went behind the scenes of the film to interview a then 11-year-old Ricci, who seemed to channel some of Wednesday’s offbeat energy. Still, she carried herself with a surprising level of sophistication, a trait that has only sharpened with age. It appears traces of Wednesday continue to live on in her, as the adult Ricci seems to still carry around that distinctive dark edge.

A lot has changed in the life and career of Jason Bateman since he made his first appearance on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” in 1984. But a lot has also stayed the same. Then known for his work on the sitcom “Silver Spoons,” he has since shown remarkable versatility, most notably starring in the Netflix crime drama “Ozark.” However, as this interview reveals, the quick, deadpan wit that made him a standout on the comedy series “Arrested Development” was pretty evident even back then. At just 15, Bateman displayed wisdom beyond his years in his conversation with Carson, which isn’t surprising considering he went on to become the youngest director in the Directors Guild of America.

Most people undergo significant changes, both physically and otherwise, as they age, but Natalie Portman seems to have been untouched by time. The Oscar-winning actress rose to prominence with the 1994 action thriller “Léon: The Professional.” Shortly after its release, she made her first ever appearance on the “Late Show with David Letterman” to chat about the experience. Watching this interview, it’s insane to think that she still looks pretty much the same today, albeit with longer hair, and her voice remains unchanged. Even more, her thoughtful responses at such a young age proved she was a brilliant kid with a bright future ahead of her. And indeed, what a remarkable future it’s been!

Since retiring from acting to focus on their fashion empire, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen have kept a pretty low profile. Fans have also noticed their increasingly unusual appearance and the fact that whenever they do step into the spotlight, they always look like they’d rather be anywhere else. Oddly enough, the twins gave off that exact same energy back in 1992 when they were interviewed on “Live with Regis and Kathie Lee.” We’re not sure if it was the hosts sitting way too close or their overly chipper voices, but something about that environment clearly unsettled the then six-year-old girls. Following a string of one-word answers and painfully awkward smiles, the hosts got the hint and wrapped up the interview.

Raven-Symoné has spent nearly her entire life in the spotlight. She was only three years old when she landed the regular role of Olivia Kendall on “The Cosby Show.” Two years later, she appeared as a guest on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” and melted the audience’s hearts with her adorable, yet remarkably articulate answers. Early in the interview, however, Raven misheard a question about her siblings, thinking Carson had asked if she had a boyfriend. Without hesitation, she issued a stern warning to the host. It was an innocent mistake for the five-year-old, but that bold, unfiltered attitude stayed with her well into adulthood, and ultimately onto the panel of “The View.”

Kieran Culkin has played so many snarky, quick-witted characters on screen that it’s hard not to wonder if that’s just who he is in real life. Two of his most memorable roles certainly fit that bill: Roman Roy on “Succession,” for which he won an Emmy, and Benji Kaplan on “A Real Pain,” for which he won an Oscar. If he really is just playing himself, then he’s doing a damn good job of it. One piece of evidence supporting this theory comes from a resurfaced interview the actor gave to “Entertainment Tonight” from his time filming 1991’s “Father of the Bride.” Culkin’s mischievous side comes alive when he is asked by the interviewer about his costume.

As a lover of pets, Drew Barrymore has always been surrounded by animals, and they’ve definitely rubbed off on her. If any celebrity embodies “Golden Retriever energy,” it’s Barrymore. That infectious charm shines through in her onscreen projects, her daytime talk show, and even in a 1982 interview with Johnny Carson. Then aged seven, Barrymore made a memorable entrance, by slipping and falling on her way to her seat. But that only made her more endearing. She remained a ball of sunshine throughout, even delighting the audience by recreating her famous scream from “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.” In 2022, Barrymore revisited the clip on “The Tonight Show,” and while her appearance may have changed, her personality remains just as radiant.

Patrick Bateman, Dick Cheney, Batman… just some of the iconic roles that Christian Bale has brought to life. Bale got his big break much earlier, at the age of 13, when he was cast in Steven Spielberg’s “Empire of the Sun.” While promoting the film, he spoke with “Entertainment Tonight” about his experience and newfound fame. Even then, his perfectionist nature was evident as he admitted to feeling nervous performing in front of an audience. Throughout the interview, Bale showcased a rather reserved demeanor, a trait that has remained consistent over the years and made him appear mature for his age. He also expressed uncertainty about pursuing acting as a career, but thankfully, he did, blessing us with some of cinema’s most unforgettable performances.

Which former child stars have grown up to be completely different people? Share your thoughts in the comments below.