Daniel Stern, the actor famous for his role as one-half of the Wet Bandits in Home Alone, now leads a quieter life at home where he’s simply “grandpa.” At 67, Stern has stepped back from Hollywood to focus on family, art, and personal fulfillment. His iconic portrayal in the 1990 holiday classic has cemented his place in film history, but his grandchildren remain unaware of his acting fame.
With six grandkids and another on the way, Stern often wonders how they will react when they eventually discover his past in film. “At some point, they’re going to see these movies or their kids might see them,” he says. “And that’s a mindblower — that they’re going to see grandpa get pelted with a brick.”
Stern chose to step away from the limelight years ago, desiring a more grounded and “real” life with his family. Over the years, he dedicated himself to being involved with his children’s activities, from coaching their teams to volunteering in his community. His contributions earned him the President’s Call to Service Award for volunteerism, a recognition of his dedication to giving back.
Now, instead of acting, Stern runs a citrus farm and cattle ranch in California’s Central Valley. He also channels his creative energy into writing and sculpture, calling himself an artist. “I need to make things all the time,” he shares. “Whether I’m making a movie, writing a book, making a sculpture, or even cleaning horse stalls, I feel satisfied in that.” Stern’s passion for creating extends to his personal social media platforms, where he shares updates about his ranch life and sculptures.
Stern has embraced social media as a way to communicate his creative journey. He sees it as an outlet for individuals to share their stories, noting that “you can tell your story, and it feels good to tell it.” For him, sharing his work with an audience is a rewarding part of the artistic process. His presence on TikTok has allowed him to connect with people who’ve discovered his work and provided him with a sense of joy.
Despite his shift away from acting, Stern remains proud of his role in Home Alone, a film that continues to resonate with audiences. His journey reflects a fulfilling balance between his family life, creative pursuits, and personal growth.
