Director Regrets Donald Trump’s Cameo in Home Alone 2: Lost in New York
Chris Columbus, the director behind Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, recently opened up about the infamous cameo of Donald Trump in the 1992 holiday classic. In an interview with the San Francisco Chronicle, Columbus shared that the cameo, which has become a symbol of controversy, has long been an “albatross” for him. He even expressed regret about including it in the film, calling it a moment he wishes “was gone.”
The Context Behind Trump’s Cameo
The cameo, which lasts for just seven seconds, features Trump giving Macaulay Culkin’s character, Kevin McCallister, directions inside the Plaza Hotel. At the time, Trump was a well-known real estate mogul and the owner of the Plaza Hotel, which is prominently featured in the movie. Columbus admitted that Trump only agreed to allow filming at the hotel under the condition that he would appear in the film. “We paid the fee, but he also said, ‘The only way you can use the Plaza is if I’m in the movie,’” Columbus explained in a 2020 interview with Business Insider.
Trump Responds to Columbus’ Criticism
In 2023, Trump took to Truth Social to respond to Columbus’ comments, claiming that Columbus had “begged” him to appear in the movie. Trump posted, “I was very busy, and didn’t want to do it. They were very nice, but above all, persistent. I agreed, and the rest is history!” The former president also boasted that his cameo contributed to the movie’s success, stating, “That little cameo took off like a rocket.” Columbus did not respond to Trump’s post at the time but later admitted that he regretted including the cameo, reflecting on how the scene had unexpectedly become a part of pop culture.
Audience Reaction and Ongoing Regret
Despite Columbus’ initial hesitation, the cameo became a fan favorite. During a test screening in Chicago, Columbus recalled the audience erupting in applause when Trump appeared on screen. “They cheered, and they cheered, and they thought it was hilarious,” he said. “I think I know a lot about comedy, but I don’t, obviously, because I never thought that was going to be considered hilarious.”
However, as time passed, Columbus grew increasingly frustrated with the scene’s lasting impact. He described it as a “curse” that has haunted him, especially in the wake of the political and cultural controversies surrounding Trump. Columbus admitted, “Years later, it’s become this curse. It’s become this thing that I wish it were not there.”
Home Alone 2’s Continued Success
Despite Columbus’ personal feelings about the cameo, Home Alone 2 was a box-office success, grossing nearly $360 million worldwide on a $28 million budget. The film cemented its place as a holiday classic and continues to be a favorite of audiences, especially during the Christmas season. Columbus, who had already found success with the original Home Alone film, went on to direct the first two Harry Potter films and produce numerous other successful projects.
Columbus’ Career and Upcoming Projects
Chris Columbus has continued to have a fruitful career in Hollywood. In 2024, he served as a producer on the remake of the vampire classic Nosferatu, directed by Robert Eggers. Columbus is also set to be honored at the 68th San Francisco International Film Festival on April 26, 2025, celebrating his work as a director and producer.