Who Played Matilda in the 1996 Film
Matilda Wormwood in the 1996 film Matilda is played by American actress Mara Wilson. She was cast as the young gifted girl who discovers her telekinetic powers while navigating an unsupportive family and a strict school headmistress.
Mara Wilson's Background and Early Career
Mara Wilson was born in 1987 in Burbank, California. Before Matilda, she appeared in films such as Mrs. Doubtfire and Miracle on 34th Street. She later stepped back from acting to focus on education and writing, and has shared her experiences in interviews and essays.
Other Appearances of Matilda
In the 2022 Netflix musical adaptation Matilda the Musical, the role of Matilda is played by Alisha Weir. The film follows the same Roald Dahl story and features a new cast alongside established stage performers from the West End production.
Read the Roger Ebert review of the 1996 film for more context on the original movie.
