The cast of the 1996 film "Matilda" came together over the weekend in London for a surprise reunion to commemorate the movie's 30th anniversary. Danny DeVito, who directed and starred as Matilda Wormwood's father, Harry, joined composer David Newman for a performance at the Royal Albert Hall. Amid a live narration of the film and a performance by the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra, DeVito announced that members of the cast would be joining them.
Mara Wilson, who portrayed the titular character Matilda, appeared on stage, followed by Pam Ferris, who played the formidable Miss Trunchbull. Also present were former child stars Kiami Davael, Jacqueline Steiger, and Kira Spencer Hesser, who played Matilda's classmates Lavender, Amanda, and Hortensia, respectively.
Embeth Davidtz, who played Miss Honey, and Rhea Perlman, who portrayed Matilda's mother, were not in attendance. Davidtz expressed her regret on Instagram, writing, "So so sad I couldn’t be there! You all look wonderful!"
Wilson, now 39, shared a photo of the reunion on Instagram, expressing her joy at celebrating with those who hold significant memories for her. "What a joy to celebrate with people who mean so much to me, with whom I share so many wonderful memories," she wrote. "Jaki, Kiami, Pam, Kira, David Newman, and of course, Uncle Danny, I love you all."
Wilson and DeVito share a close bond, with DeVito and his wife, Rhea Perlman, reportedly looking after Wilson during her mother's battle with breast cancer. Wilson has previously spoken about how the DeVito family became like a second family to her, offering her a place to stay and ensuring she was treated like a child. Her mother, Suzie, passed away shortly after filming concluded, and the movie was dedicated to her memory.
When discussing a potential sequel in the past, Wilson shared her reservations about ideas such as Matilda having her own daughter, believing that Matilda's powers stemmed from the adversities she overcame.