Mara Wilson, best known for her iconic roles in Matilda and Mrs. Doubtfire, recently opened up about her experience filming Miracle on 34th Street. As the holiday classic celebrates its anniversary, Wilson shared heartfelt memories of working on the set, the unique challenges of filming, and how the movie has shaped her life.
Finding Faith in Santa
Despite growing up in a Jewish household, Wilson admitted she never believed in Santa Claus — until she met Richard Attenborough. "Richard Attenborough’s Santa Claus was the only Santa I ever actually believed in," she said. His warmth and authenticity made a lasting impression on the young actress.
Challenges and Camaraderie on Set
Filming the movie’s wintery scenes in Chicago’s sweltering summer heat was anything but cozy. The cast and crew endured intense discomfort, with Wilson recalling: "I got heat rashes and I had to put my costume in front of an air conditioner in between takes." Despite the challenges, Wilson fondly remembers the supportive atmosphere created by her co-stars. She praised Elizabeth Perkins, who played her mother, for bringing authenticity to their relationship, and described Dylan McDermott, who played her stepfather, as "one of the funniest people on set and really great with kids."
A Personal Legacy
For Wilson, Miracle on 34th Street holds a deeply personal significance. The year after filming, her mother was diagnosed with cancer, making the time spent on set a cherished memory. "That was a very special time in my life," she reflected. The movie’s release also introduced her to the world of international promotion, including a memorable Thanksgiving spent in Madrid.
An Enduring Holiday Classic
Though the film wasn’t a massive hit upon release, it has since become a holiday staple for families around the world. Wilson recalled the moment she realized its impact: "When I was a teenager, people would say to me, 'We watch this movie every Christmas.' That made me so happy." Being part of a holiday classic that continues to bring joy to audiences remains one of her most meaningful accomplishments.
Wilson reflected on the unique privilege of being part of a holiday classic, sharing advice for actors: " It's nice to know that you are making somebody's holiday. You will have a place in people's hearts, and probably also some financial security if you are in a holiday movie." At just seven years old, Wilson couldn’t grasp the full magnitude of the film’s significance. "It’s much easier in your 30s, I think, to understand the magnitude of things," she said.
Wilson’s reflections on Miracle on 34th Street remind us why the film endures as a beloved Christmas tradition. Its message of hope, faith, and the magic of the season resonates as strongly today as it did decades ago, making it a timeless treasure for generations to come.
