“Stan” is a classic single. Eminem’s character study of a crazed stalker is as poignant now as the day it dropped, and it’s even become hip-hop shorthand for “intense fans.” A big part of why the song worked so well was the music video, which starred Devon Sawa as the titular character. Sawa, best known as the star of the Final Destination franchise, gives an utterly chilling yet sympathetic performance. It’s hard to imagine someone else doing a better job. That said, Macaulay Culkin was Eminem’s original choice.
Sawa shed light on his casting during a recent interview with Entertainment Tonight, and blew our collective minds in the process. The actor revealed that he was the second choice to play Stan after Culkin turned it down! You read that right: Eminem wanted the star of Home Alone to play his obsessed fan. “Full disclosure: they went out to Macaulay Culkin first, I believe,” Sawa told the outlet. “I think that they wanted him, and he wasn’t available, or didn’t want to do it or whatever.” Culkin was not technically an actor at the time, which may have contributed to his decision. The child star retired from Hollywood in 1995, and wouldn’t return to the big screen until Party Monster in 2003. The music video for “Stan,” meanwhile, came out in 2000.
Devon Sawa credited Dr. Dre with getting him the part. Apparently, the super producer saw Sawa in the first Final Destination and thought he would be a good fit. He turned out to be right. “There happened to be somebody in the casting office that knew somebody who was friends with me,” the actor recalled. He may have been the second choice, but Sawa considers “Stan” to be one of his career highlights. “It’s one of the proudest things I’ve been a part of,” he added. “I know it better now than I did that day. Because I’ve heard it millions of times since.”
Macaulay Culkin may have passed on “Stan,” but the actor actually has a pretty stellar music video resume. He appeared in the video for Michael Jackson’s iconic single “Black or White” in 1991, then returned for the Sonic Youth track “Sunday” in 1998. The actor popped up in the Pizza Underground’s “The Pizza Underground Demo” in 2014, which makes sense given that he was in the band. Culkin then played a crucified Kurt Cobain in the music video for Father John Misty’s 2017 song “Total Entertainment Forever.” He’s yet to make his hip-hop debut, but there’s still plenty of time.
It turns out that Eminem‘s memorable “Stan” music video reportedly almost had a different lead actor.
Devon Sawa, who starred in it, did a recent interview with Entertainment Tonight where he revealed that directors Dr. Dre and Philip Atwell were aiming for another child star — but it didn’t work out.
“Full disclosure: they went out to Macaulay Culkin first, I believe,” Sawa said. “I think that they wanted him, and he wasn’t available, or didn’t want to do it or whatever.”
“Then Dre, who had just seen Final Destination and was a fan, suggested [me],” he added. “There happened to be somebody in the casting office that knew somebody who was friends with me, and they called me that way… and it ended up working out pretty good.”
Looking back on it, it seems wild to picture the Home Alone star playing a character that idolized and imitated Eminem in 2000. However, when Entertainment Tonight reached out to Culkin and Eminem’s representatives, they didn’t return a comment to confirm.
Although the part could’ve gone to someone else, Sawa did point out just how lucky he still feels to have been selected. “It’s also one of the proudest things I’ve been a part of,” he shared. “I’ll tell you one thing, I know it better now than I did that day. Because I’ve heard it millions of times since.”
Kieran Culkin’s journey in acting is a compelling tale of evolution. It is marked by an early start and a steady ascent to critical acclaim. Bursting onto the scene as a child actor, he quickly distinguished himself with his natural talent and undeniable screen presence. Early roles in the Home Alone series, where he played the cousin of Macaulay Culkin‘s character, Kevin McCallister, offered a glimpse of his potential.
However, his breakthrough performance in Igby Goes Down truly showcased his depth and versatility as an actor. This role earned him a Golden Globe nomination and set the stage for a career defying the typical child actor trajectory. As of 2024, as reported by Celebrity Net Worth, Kieran Culkin’s net worth is estimated at $5 million. This figure speaks to his enduring appeal and success in a highly competitive industry.
A Career Defined By Diverse Roles & Critical Acclaim
Kieran Culkin and Macaulay Culkin during “After Ashley” Off-Broadway Premiere. After Party at Link in New York City, New York, United States. (Photo by Bruce Glikas/FilmMagic)
Kieran Culkin’s career is a testament to his ability to transition between genres and characters seamlessly. Unlike many child actors who struggle to reinvent themselves, Culkin embraced the challenge. He selected roles that allowed him to explore different facets of his craft. His filmography is a rich tapestry of performances, each demonstrating his range and commitment to his roles. Notable works include his poignant portrayal in The Cider House Rules and his critically acclaimed performance in Scott Pilgrim vs. the World.
These roles, among others, highlight his skill in bringing complex characters to life. They earned him respect and admiration within the industry. His more recent success in the television series Succession further cements his reputation as an actor of substance. His portrayal of Roman Roy, a character fraught with inner conflict and familial tensions, has been lauded for its nuance and depth. It showcased Culkin’s ability to capture the intricacies of human emotion.
Personal Life & Impact Beyond The Screen
US actor Kieran Culkin and his wife Jazz Charton arrive for the 75th Emmy Awards at the. Peacock Theatre at L.A. Live in Los Angeles on January 15, 2024. (Photo by Robyn BECK / AFP) (Photo by ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty Images)
Though kept relatively private, Kieran Culkin’s personal life reflects a man deeply committed to his art and personal growth. This discretion has allowed him to navigate his career without the trappings of celebrity culture. He focuses instead on roles that resonate with him artistically and personally. His selective approach to projects speaks to his desire for meaningful engagement with his work rather than chasing fame for its own sake.
Off-screen, Culkin is known for his low-key lifestyle and avoidance of the typical Hollywood spotlight. He prefers to let his work speak for itself. This approach has earned him the respect of his peers and admiration from a fanbase that values his authenticity and dedication to his craft.
Concluding Thoughts: The Real Worth Of Kieran Culkin
Matthew Macfadyen, Sarah Snook and Kieran Culkin at the 81st Golden Globe Awards held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on January 7, 2024 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Gilbert Flores/Golden Globes 2024/Golden Globes 2024 via Getty Images)
In summarizing the story of Kieran Culkin’s career and net worth, it becomes clear that his true value cannot be encapsulated simply by a monetary figure. While his estimated $5 million net worth is indeed a marker of his success, it is the richness of his experiences, the breadth of his roles, and the depth of his performances that truly define his worth.
Culkin’s journey in the entertainment industry is a narrative of persistent growth, artistic exploration, and a commitment to authenticity. As he continues to grace the screen with his presence, Kieran Culkin stands as a beacon of artistic integrity in a world often overshadowed by fleeting fame and superficial accolades. His legacy, therefore, is not just in the wealth he has amassed, but in the impact he has made on the art of acting and the audiences he has touched through his performances.
Macaulay Culkin and Brenda Song as a couple stand out for their charm and genuine connection, which is not always seen in Hollywood. Their journey from co-stars to lovers has been one marked by rumors, public appearances, and, ultimately, the joyous announcement of parenthood. As fans of Culkin’s iconic role in the Home Alone franchise and Song’s diverse contributions to film and television, audiences have followed the couple’s evolving relationship with keen interest. Let’s take a look at the timeline of their relationship.
The paths of the Home Alone star and the former Disney Channel actress first crossed in Thailand. Specifically, during the filming of the movie, Changeland. Moreover, Seth Green, the film’s writer and director, candidly shared with Esquire his surprise at how well the two stars connected. He confessed that he “didn’t see that one coming.”
Whispers of romantic involvement between Culkin and Song began to circulate in July 2017 when they were photographed together in Los Angeles. The two seemed to be enjoying each other’s company while they grabbed dinner. Furthermore, the rumor gained significant traction when Song shared a group photo featuring Culkin on her Instagram account. Soon after, they were spotted holding hands during what appeared to be a double date with Seth Green and his wife.
December 2017: A Parisian Getaway
PASADENA, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 29: Actors Brenda Song and Macaulay Culkin attend the adoption fair during 2019 CatCon at Pasadena Convention Center on June 29, 2019 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Sarah Morris/Getty Images)
By the end of 2017, fans were rest assured that Brenda Song and Macaulay Culkin were indeed an item. In December, the couple were spotted on a romantic vacation in Paris. They were photographed walking together, hand-in-hand, as they wandered through the famous capital. The headlines continued when they were also seen having dinner with Culkin’s goddaughter Paris Jackson.
In January 2018, Song took to her Instagram to shout out her boyfriend’s new podcast, Bunny Ears. Posting a photo of Culkin wearing bunny ears, she captioned it: “Go and check out this stud, @culkamania‘s new weekly podcast @bunnyearspodcast. It’s a whole lot of amazing.” A few months later, she appeared on said podcast with Culkin, Matt Bennett, and Matt Cohen. By August, Macaulay Culkin was featured onThe Joe Rogan Experience where he spoke about wanting to start a family with Brenda Song. “This one’s a good one,” he said. “So I’m probably going to put some babies in her in a little bit.”
Macaulay Culkin and Brenda Song have maintained a relatively private relationship. However, they share occasional glimpses into their personal life through social media. In 2019, they attended multiple events together, constantly supporting each other’s projects. In June, the couple attended the L.A. premiere of Changeland, and Song posted a picture with Culkin and the rest of the cast. A few months later, Song wished Culkin a happy 39th birthday via Instagram. Additionally, in the adorable post, she referred to him as her “most favorite human.”
2020-2021: Macaulay Culkin and Brenda Song Start A Family
Right before Valentine’s Day, 2020, Culkin revealed in his Esquire cover story that he and Song were trying hard to have a baby. “We practice a lot. We’re figuring it out, making the timing work,” he said. That year, the pair celebrated Valentine’s Day together, shouting each other out on social media.
Fast forward to April 2021, and Culkin and Song became parents. The couple announced the birth of their first child — a son named Dakota Song Culkin. They kept the details about their pregnancy relatively low-key, choosing to share the news a week after their son was born. Even after they became parents, the couple found ways to enjoy some time alone and on dates.
2022: The Road To “I Do”
SANTA MONICA, CA – SEPTEMBER 07: Brenda Song (L) and Macaulay Culkin attend the sixth biennial Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C) telecast at the Barkar Hangar on Friday, September 7, 2018 in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Stand Up To Cancer)
With the joy of the new year came the news that Macaulay Culkin and Brenda Song had gotten engaged. A source told People that “Macaulay and Brenda have loved being together as a family since welcoming Dakota. The engagement is the natural next step for them. They are excited for their future together.”
Come September, Brenda Song spoke to People about her and Culkin planning their nuptials. “Wedding planning is so expensive and it takes up so much time,” she said. “Being a new mom, we’re so busy. It feels so convenient to be able to sit down and be able to get everything done all at once.”
2023: Baby Number Two And A Hollywood Star!
US actor Macaulay Culkin, his partner Brenda Song and their children stand near his newly unveiled Hollywood Walk of Fame Star on December 1, 2023 in Hollywood. (Photo by Frederic J. BROWN / AFP) (Photo by FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images)
Culkin and Song welcomed their second child in March, naming the baby boy Carson. Nine months later, Song and their two sons joined Culkin as he received a star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame. While giving his speech, the actor teared up as he showered Song with some beautiful words. “You are absolutely everything. You’re my champion,” he said. The actor continued by referring to Song as “not only the best woman I’ve ever known, you’re the best person I’ve ever known.”
Though young people may know him best as Mickey on American Horror Story‘s tenth season, Macaulay Culkin rose to prominence in the 1990s as one of the greatest child stars in cinema history. The New York-born performer first appeared on screen at age four, before becoming nominated for a Golden Globe and topping VH1’s 2005 list of 100 Greatest Kid-Stars. In addition to starring in movies, Culkin also appeared in music videos for artists such as Sonic Youth, the Temptations, and even Michael Jackson. Though the young actor’s career may never reach the meteoric heights it did when he was a child, Macaulay Culkin will surely be remembered for his efforts in film.
3. Uncle Buck (1989)
Though Macaulay Culkin holds a handful of IMDb credits before his landmark appearance in 1989’s Uncle Buck, the film served as his first leading role, bringing his trademark humor and adorable blue eyes to the forefront of cinema culture. Culkin stars in the film alongside Spaceballs‘ John Candy in the first of several classic collaborations. The film grossed just under $80 million at the worldwide box office against an estimated production budget of only $15 million, making the film a certified hit.
Uncle Buck centers around John Candy’s Buck, who must adjust his carefree bachelor lifestyle to care for his brother’s three children. With their parents gone to tend to an emergency, Buck quickly bonds with the two young kids, Maizy and Miles Russell, played by Gaby Hoffman and Macaulay Culkin. As an authority figure, Buck struggles to contend with his angst-filled teenage niece, portrayed by Jean Louisa Kelly.
2. Home Alone 2: Lost In New York (1992)
Though Home Alone 2 didn’t exactly live up to the standard set by the first installment of the series, the film still managed to become a Christmas classic viewed by millions each year. Like the first entry in the franchise, Home Alone 2: Lost In New York centers on Macaulay Culkin’s Kevin McCallister, who is lost and left without adult supervision. In this installment, Kevin must navigate the grid of Manhattan, befriend a bird-feeding wanderer, and fight off a pair of would-be criminals attempting to exact revenge for Kevin’s hand in putting them in jail.
Home Alone 2 took home $359 million at the global box office, against an estimated production budget of between $20-$28 million. Though Macaulay Culkin would later go on to appear in several other films and television programs, the actor will always be best known for bringing Kevin McCallister to the big screen.
1. Home Alone
In what should come as no major surprise, Macaulay Culkin’s biggest movie by just about any metric is 1990’s Home Alone. The film singlehandedly launched Culkin’s career into icon status while possibly inspiring children worldwide to engage in holiday-themed hijinks that may or may not maim and permanently disfigure home invaders. Home Alone made a staggering $476.7 million at the global box office, with an estimated production budget of only $18 million.
The film reunited Macaulay Culkin with Uncle Buck‘s John Candy, and earned the child star an American Comedy Award and a Young Artist Award. Though Culkin’s brother Kieran may be dominating the cinemascope these days for landmark roles such as Roman Roy on Succession, Macaulay Culkin likely makes enough money off Home Alone each year to purchase a brand new home to be alone inside.
