Mara Wilson: Danny DeVito's Kindness Saved My Family

Mara Wilson, who starred in the 1996 film "Matilda," recently spoke about the emotional challenges she faced during its production. Wilson was only seven years old when filming began, and during that time, her mother was undergoing treatment for breast cancer. Sadly, her mother passed away in April 1996, just three months before the movie's release.

Despite these personal hardships, Wilson highlighted the immense support she received from Danny DeVito, who played her father and directed the film. She described DeVito as a source of great kindness and support, noting that while he didn't adopt her, he and his wife, Rhea Perlman, "took very good care of my family." This period, though difficult, also brought cherished memories of friendships and a feeling of "summer camp."

Wilson emphasized that her enduring connection to "Matilda" stems from the profound friendships and care she experienced on set. She continues to maintain friendships with many people she worked with on the film, cherishing the memories of both the challenges and the camaraderie that defined the experience. DeVito even dedicated the film to her late mother's memory.