Kieran Culkin recently revealed a hilarious tidbit about his time filming Home Alone, admitting that he had no idea what the movie was about when he starred in it. In an interview with The Los Angeles Times, Culkin shared that he was laughing uncontrollably during the premiere because he found the film “the funniest thing I had ever seen,” despite being part of it. He even recalled how his co-star Devin Ratray (who played the villainous Buzz) convinced him that the movie was actually about him, which Culkin, then eight years old, believed until he realized the truth.
Culkin also mentioned that, as a parent now, he views Home Alone in a different light. He joked that the movie could be seen as a horror film through the eyes of his three-year-old son, especially given how creepy the “Sticky/Wet Bandits” (played by Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern) are. While the movie is filled with childlike wonder, with scenes like Kevin eating ice cream for dinner, Culkin pointed out that the burglars could have seriously harmed Kevin, adding a darker edge to the story.
Despite not knowing much about Home Alone before its release, Culkin’s role as Kevin’s cousin Fuller, the bed-wetting kid, has become one of the most memorable and relatable parts of the film. Though Fuller only appears briefly, his big glasses and infectious smile left a lasting impression, especially for kids who remember the awkwardness of family holiday visits.
This funny anecdote about Culkin’s childhood on set highlights the innocence with which he approached his early career, contrasting with his older brother Macaulay Culkin’s more tumultuous experience with fame. While Macaulay has spoken publicly about his difficult childhood and strained relationship with his parents, Kieran has shared that his experience as a child actor was far more positive and free from the trauma his sibling endured.
Today, Kieran Culkin is celebrated for his successful career in television and film, with standout roles in Succession, Fargo, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, and She’s All That. His story about Home Alone adds an extra layer of nostalgia for fans and serves as a reminder of how beloved his performance continues to be.