Every December, a wave of festive cheer washes over British households as the beloved film Nativity! returns to screens. With its infectious songs and heartwarming plot, the 2009 comedy about a chaotic school Christmas play has cemented itself as a modern seasonal classic. Now, sixteen years later, the young stars who captured the nation's hearts have grown up, embarking on surprisingly diverse paths far from their primary school roles.
From Child Star To Social Media Sensation
For many of the cast, the film's enduring popularity has translated into a lasting connection with fans through social media. Despite posting only a handful of videos, some boast followings as high as 25,000 on TikTok, while compilation videos unearthing the young actors have amassed a staggering 2.5 million views. Their journeys from the classroom of St. Bernadette's to adulthood are as varied as they are fascinating.
Ben Wilby, now 23, who played the scene-stealing Bob, defied significant medical odds to even reach the audition. Diagnosed with Craniosynostosis as a toddler, doctors warned he might never walk or talk. He not only overcame this but beat 500 other hopefuls for the part. Ben continued acting in the sequels and TV shows like Father Brown, studied at the Emil Dale Academy, and now shares memories of the film with his 81,000 TikTok followers.
Ellie Coldicutt, 26, who delivered the memorable 'Sparkle & Shine' performance from atop the moon, pursued a stage career in her youth, touring with The Sound of Music. However, she later swapped scripts for statutes, studying law and criminology at the University of the West of England. She now works as a marketing executive in Leamington Spa and shares glamorous snaps of her life, including her 2023 wedding, on Instagram.
Stepping Away From The Spotlight
Not all cast members chose to remain in the public eye. Brandon McDonald, from Warwickshire, who played the cheeky Oli famous for the "extra spicy" line, appeared in all three films but has since stepped back from acting. Changing his name and keeping a low profile, he occasionally trends online, like when a video of him eating in a restaurant with the film's soundtrack went viral, gaining over 300,000 likes.
Maeve Dolan, 24, who hilariously auditioned with 'Teenage Dirtbag' as Sam, moved to London to study music. While she maintains a TikTok presence with over 4,000 followers, she lives a relatively private life, surprising fans last year when she confirmed her role in the film, prompting hundreds of nostalgic comments.
Pursuing Passion In Performance And Business
Several cast members have successfully blended creative pursuits with entrepreneurial spirit. Sydney Isitt-Ager, 26, the daughter of writer-director Debbie Isitt, played shy Sadie but is now a confident multi-hyphenate. After drama school, she started both a beauty company and a jewellery business, and recently landed the lead role in Military Wives The Musical.
Tom McGarrity, 30, dubbed the school's 'Zac Efron', has built a career as a professional dancer, performing on cruise ships and in holiday parks worldwide, from Australia to South Africa. Similarly, Krista Hyatt, 22, who played Oakmoor school's dancer Becky, continues to share her dance passion on TikTok, where she has 14,700 followers.
Cadi Mullane, 24, who played Crystal, graduated from the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama and fondly recalls Martin Freeman singing her happy birthday on set. Jake Pratt, 29, who played the ambitious Alfie, leveraged his post-Nativity fame into a West End career, starring in Billy Elliot the Musical and Matilda the Musical.
From law and marketing to West End stages and global cruise ships, the children of Nativity! have truly grown up. Their transformations highlight the unpredictable journey of child stardom, yet their connection to the festive film that started it all remains a bright constant, ready to be rediscovered each and every Christmas.
