Top 10 Celebs You Forgot Were in the American Girl Movies

In 2021, Hanratty was labeled a breakout star for her incredible performance as Misty in the hit show “Yellowjackets.” However, she’s actually been acting for nearly two decades. She started booking roles when she was just a kid in the early-to-mid 2000s. By 2006, she was the memorable Holly on Disney Channel’s “The Suite Life.” Then, in 2009, she starred as Chrissa, a “girl of the year” who navigates school jerks and the swim team. The “American Girl” movie follows her unlikely friendship with another future star, “Booksmart” actress Kaitlyn Dever. Over the years, Hanratty’s love for entertaining and incredible range have led to her continued industry success.

After Martin was cast in “Black-ish,” the world knew her as Diane Johnson, the scheming twin sister. That award-winning TV role then paved the way for her film career, and she starred as the historical American Girl Melody. Set in the 1960s, the period piece follows a Detroit family dealing with the effects of racial discrimination. On top of her work in front of the camera, Martin has also made history behind the scenes. After working on “Little,” she became the youngest ever film producer, and it’s obvious her future in the industry is bright.

This industry icon needs no introduction. However, you might not know that somewhere in between “The Devil Wears Prada” and “Easy A,” Tucci entered the American Girl Cinematic Universe. He plays nefarious magician Mr. Berk in the Kit Kittredge adaptation, and the renowned actor is in good company. Joan Cusack, Jane Krakowski, Julia Ormond, and Wallace Shawn are among those taking the family movie to the next level. The historical piece is the only one of the franchise’s films to be released in theaters, and the star-studded cast makes it a standout.

Whether you know her as Meg from “A Wrinkle In Time” or Rue’s younger sister Gia in “Euphoria,” Reid is an acting force to be reckoned with. From her early career to her latest endeavors, she’s proven she can bring a wide range of roles to life. She made her feature film acting debut at around ten years old. A few years later, she graced our screens in “Lea to the Rescue.” Though her supporting role isn’t necessarily huge, there’s no question that the Emmy-winner is an incredible addition to the list of “American Girl” alumni.

When it comes to actors who already had impressive careers before they booked an “American Girl” film, Ringwald might take the cake. In the ‘80s, she notably starred in John Hughes’ “Sixteen Candles,” “The Breakfast Club,” and “Pretty in Pink.” She made a splash, becoming a staple of the teen genre. She’d spend the following years dabbling in a variety of unique roles. Then, in 2006, the brat pack actor appeared as the title character’s hardworking mother in the WWII-set “Molly: An American Girl on the Home Front.” From starting out as a young actress to building her latest credits, Ringwald is both an industry veteran and icon.

After she was scouted at a young age, Robb got her main start in the industry as the star of the very first “American Girl” movie. She plays Samantha, a 20th century girl learning about society and friendship, and her performance paved the way for her success as a child actress. Her popularity grew after her roles in “Because of Winn-Dixie,” “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” and “Bridge to Terabithia.” Though the peak of her mainstream success started from the mid-2000s into the 2010s, Robb has continued to impress in both film and television parts over the years.

Since most people know her as a musician, you might not know Willow Smith’s work as an actress. Following her appearance in “I Am Legend” with her dad, she went on to feature in the Kit Kittredge movie. The young girl is nearly unrecognizable, especially because her character is in disguise as a boy. While Smith didn’t pursue acting as intensely following that, her iconic song “Whip My Hair” was released not too long after, in 2010. From her younger years to now, the artist has honed her unique style and built a successful career.

By the time we saw Breslin as American Girl Kit on screen, she was already a household name, millionaire, and Academy Award nominee. The talented young actress earned praise for her sincere charm, and this 2008 role was no exception. Even with such an impressive cast, her performance as a resourceful girl with dreams of becoming a reporter shines through. It’s easy to see why Breslin may be known for the projects she worked on growing up and as a young adult. But she’s proven it was never a fluke, showing off her acting chops in everything from dark comedies to dramas in more recent years.

Long before she appeared in “The Secret Life of the American Teenager,” Woodley was booking TV series and commercials. In fact, she was only around 5 when she got her start. Then, in 2005, she took on one of her first starring roles in the Felicity “American Girl” film. Not only was she joined by Academy Award winner Marcia Gay Harden, but her co-star Kevin Zegers was also a successful young actor in the industry. After her acclaimed performance in “The Descendants” propelled her to more mainstream fame, Woodley continued to hone her craft through a long list of incredibly successful productions.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

Keir Gilchrist, “Samantha: An American Girl Holiday” (2004)
The “Atypical” Star Appeared as a Factory Worker

Nia Vardalos, “An American Girl: Mckenna Shoots for the Stars” (2012)
The “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” Creator Also Played Mckenna’s Mom

Melora Hardin, “An American Girl: Isabelle Dances Into the Spotlight” (2014)
The Popular Actress Brought Isabelle’s Mom to Life

Mia Farrow, “Samantha: An American Girl Holiday” (2004)
The ‘60s Icon Played Samantha’s Grandmother

You might remember that before she was a Grammy-winning musician, Rodrigo was a Disney Channel star. However, not everyone knows that prior to her time on “Bizaardvark,” she made her acting debut in this 2015 “American Girl” movie. Indeed, she was Grace, a young baker who travels to Paris. She was even joined by decorated actress Virginia Madsen. Six years later, Rodrigo’s song “Drivers License,” shot her from television fame to superstar status. Since then, the singer has become a prominent voice for Gen Z and a modern pop icon.

Which of these movies brought back memories, or which entry surprised you the most? Let us know in the comments below!