The Stars of Lizzie McGuire: Where Are They Now?

They all graced our screens in the early 2000s and showed millions of kids "what dreams are made of," but now, they all live vastly different lives. The beloved cast of Lizzie McGuire transported us into the heart of teenage struggles mixed with quirky humor. As we revisit their journeys, it’s fascinating to see how their lives have evolved since then.

Hilary Duff (Lizzie McGuire/Isabella Parigi)

Now 37, Hilary Duff has gracefully transitioned from Disney darling to a multifaceted adult. She became a teen idol not just for her role as Lizzie but also for starring in hits like Cheaper by the Dozen and A Cinderella Story. Beyond acting, Duff has made a name for herself as a singer and best-selling children’s author, with titles like My Little Brave Girl (2021) and My Little Sweet Boy (2023). A mother of four, she continues to juggle family life with acting, recently appearing in Younger and How I Met Your Father. However, her long-anticipated Lizzie McGuire reboot was canceled in 2020 due to creative differences with Disney, leaving fans yearning for what could have been.

Adam Lamberg (David "Gordo" Gordon)

Adam Lamberg, honored for his role as Gordo, stepped away from the spotlight shortly after Lizzie McGuire wrapped up. Now 40, he has successfully transitioned into other fields, earning a geography degree from UC Berkeley and a master’s in public administration from Baruch College. He even worked at the Irish Arts Center in New York. Although he was set to reprise his role for the reboot, he, like many, was disappointed when the project fell through.

Jake Thomas (Matt McGuire)

Jake Thomas was the lovable little brother of Lizzie, and at 34, he’s now a jack-of-all-trades in the entertainment industry. Thomas has dabbled in photography, directing, and screenwriting, studying at California State University, Northridge. He has appeared in various shows, including Cory in the House and even hosted a rewatch podcast called Living Lizzie alongside fellow cast member Davida Williams.

Ashlie Brillault (Kate Sanders)

Ashlie Brillault portrayed Kate, Lizzie’s frenemy, and left acting after her Lizzie McGuire days, forgoing a Hollywood career for the legal field. Earning her JD, she now works as a criminal defense attorney in Southern California. Her life pivot demonstrates a shift from the bright lights of the stage to the serious work of law.

Hallie Todd (Jo McGuire)

Hallie Todd, Lizzie’s wise mother, has been a part of the entertainment field since the 1970s, with appearances in shows like Murder, She Wrote and Star Trek: The Next Generation. Now 62, Todd has transitioned behind the camera, co-founding a production company with her husband and daughter. She also teaches acting, imparting her wisdom to the next generation.

Robert Carradine (Sam McGuire)

Having had a long-standing career well before Lizzie McGuire, Robert Carradine is known for his roles in Revenge of the Nerds and Django Unchained. Now 70, he remains active in the industry, co-hosting King of the Nerds and making guest appearances on reality shows. Carradine was also slated to participate in the reboot that never came to fruition.

Yani Gellman (Paolo Valisari)

The charming pop star Paolo, played by Yani Gellman, has had a fruitful acting career beyond The Lizzie McGuire Movie. He has landed significant roles in shows such as Pretty Little Liars, and most recently appeared in the film A Bestselling Kind of Love. Gellman has successfully mixed modeling with acting, displaying versatility in his career.

Alex Borstein (Miss Ungermeyer)

Best known as Miss Ungermeyer, Alex Borstein left a lasting impact on the film. Famous for her work on MADtv and Family Guy, where she voices Lois Griffin, Borstein has continued to shine in the entertainment industry. Now 53, she has won multiple Emmys for her role in The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, showcasing her remarkable talent on screen.

Carly Schroeder (Melina Bianco)

Carly Schroeder played Melina, the spirited friend to Matt McGuire. Before reaching this role, she appeared in other notable series such as Port Charles. A major change came in 2019 when she joined the U.S. Army, rising through the ranks to become a Captain and Infantry Officer—a surprising and commendable pivot from her on-screen antics.

Daniel Escobar (Mr. Escobar)

Daniel Escobar brought warmth to the character of Mr. Escobar but sadly passed away in December 2013, at the age of 49. He was known from shows like Curb Your Enthusiasm and Malcolm in the Middle, leaving a legacy that resonates with fans who adored his charm on-screen.

These former stars of Lizzie McGuire have navigated various paths since their time in the spotlight. From legal careers to motherhood, they’ve all found new ways to inspire and entertain, proving that life after Disney can be just as magical.