Where Are They Now? The Lizzie McGuire Cast’s Surprising New Careers And 2025 Projects

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The question of "Where are they now?" for the beloved *Lizzie McGuire* cast is more complex and fascinating than ever in late 2025. While the iconic Disney Channel series ended over two decades ago, the careers of the actors who played Lizzie, Gordo, Miranda, and the McGuire family have taken wildly different and unexpected paths, including major new music projects, a high-profile Hulu series, and dramatic shifts away from the spotlight into non-acting professional roles. The highly anticipated *Lizzie McGuire* reboot was officially canceled in early 2021, but new details that surfaced in early 2024 about the adult-themed plot points—which Disney ultimately rejected—keep the conversation about the show's legacy and its stars' evolution very much alive, making this a perfect time to catch up on their latest 2025 ventures and career transformations.

Main Cast: Biography & Profile

The core cast of *Lizzie McGuire* were all young talents who became household names. Here is a quick look at the main actors and their essential profile details:

  • Hilary Duff (Lizzie McGuire): Born September 28, 1987, in Houston, Texas. She is an actress, singer, author, and businesswoman. Her breakout role was as Lizzie McGuire, which launched her into a successful career in both film and music.
  • Adam Lamberg (David "Gordo" Gordon): Born September 14, 1984. He is best known for his role as Lizzie’s best friend, Gordo. Lamberg largely retired from acting after *The Lizzie McGuire Movie* (2003) and the series' end.
  • Lalaine Vergara-Paras (Miranda Sanchez): Born June 3, 1987, in Burbank, California. Known professionally as Lalaine, she is an actress, singer-songwriter, and bassist who played Lizzie’s other best friend, Miranda.
  • Jake Thomas (Matt McGuire): Born January 30, 1990. He is an American actor and director, famous for portraying Lizzie's mischievous younger brother, Matt McGuire.
  • Robert Carradine (Sam McGuire): Born March 24, 1954. A veteran actor from the famous Carradine family, he played Lizzie’s father, Sam McGuire. He is also famous for his role as Lewis Skolnick in the *Revenge of the Nerds* films.
  • Hallie Todd (Jo McGuire): Born March 7, 1962. She played Lizzie’s mother, Jo McGuire, and is also an accomplished acting coach, author, and producer.

The Canceled Reboot: The Adult Themes That Ended the Revival

The biggest recent headline for the *Lizzie McGuire* universe was the cancellation of the Disney+ reboot, which was set to follow 30-year-old Lizzie navigating life in New York City.

The project, which had filmed two episodes, ultimately fell apart because Disney was not comfortable with the authentic, more adult direction the series was taking.

In early 2024, a writer for the canceled show revealed specific plot details, confirming that the new series would have featured adult themes.

These themes included Lizzie dealing with issues like sex, infidelity, and complex relationships, which were deemed too mature for the Disney+ platform, which was seeking a more family-friendly tone.

Hilary Duff herself stated that the show needed to be authentic to a 30-year-old’s life, which ultimately led to the creative differences and the series' demise, leaving a massive gap in the nostalgic revival market.

Beyond Disney: What the Lizzie McGuire Actors Are Doing Now

The post-*Lizzie McGuire* careers of the main actors show a fascinating mix of Hollywood persistence, creative pivots, and complete career changes, with several major projects slated for 2025 and beyond.

Hilary Duff: New Music, Docuseries, and a New Hulu Series

Hilary Duff has had the most high-profile career continuation, currently starring in the popular Hulu series *How I Met Your Father*. However, her 2025 is shaping up to be a major pivot back to music.

In a major announcement, Duff signed a new record deal and revealed that she is working on her first album in over a decade, tentatively titled *Luck…or Something*.

Accompanying the new music is an intimate docuseries, which will follow her journey back to performing and recording. The project is being directed and executive produced by Sam Wrench, known for his work on Taylor Swift's Eras Tour film, ensuring a high-profile and current release.

Beyond music, Duff is also set to star in the upcoming Hulu comedy-drama series *Pretty Ugly*, based on the novel of the same name, which is currently scheduled for release in 2026 or 2027, demonstrating her long-term commitment to acting.

Adam Lamberg (Gordo): The Unexpected Career Pivot

Adam Lamberg, who played the intellectual and loyal Gordo, has taken the most dramatic step away from the entertainment industry. After a brief return for the canceled reboot, Lamberg has largely retired from acting since 2008.

Following his acting hiatus, Lamberg pursued higher education, earning a Master's degree. He has successfully transitioned into a non-acting professional career, working as a development officer at the Irish Arts Centre in New York City, a role that focuses on fundraising and non-profit management.

His story is a key point of topical authority, highlighting that not all child stars remain in the spotlight, but can instead find success in other professional fields, making the question of "what happened to the cast of Lizzie McGuire" particularly satisfying for fans of the character Gordo.

Jake Thomas (Matt McGuire): Actor, Director, and Procedural Regular

Jake Thomas, who played the annoying but lovable little brother Matt McGuire, has remained active in the industry, expanding his career beyond acting into directing.

Thomas has been steadily cast in various television procedurals throughout his career, including guest roles on shows like *N.C.I.S.*, *S.W.A.T.*, and *Criminal Minds*, cementing his status as a working actor in Hollywood.

In 2024, he was listed as an actor in the film *Crossroads*, showcasing his continued commitment to film work alongside his television and directing endeavors, proving that the pesky little brother has grown into a versatile creative professional.

The McGuire Parents: Robert Carradine and Hallie Todd

The actors who played Lizzie’s parents remain active in their respective fields.

Robert Carradine (Sam McGuire) continues his acting career, with the film *The Night They Came Home* slated for release in 2024, and other projects currently in development.

He also frequently appears at fan conventions, such as a *Revenge of the Nerds* reunion at NJ Horror Con in August 2024, where he meets fans and discusses his extensive filmography.

Hallie Todd (Jo McGuire) has successfully transitioned into a highly respected acting coach and producer. Her focus is on educating the next generation of performers, offering private coaching, consultations, and on-camera acting classes, with sessions advertised for late 2024 and 2025.

Todd has also co-authored books on the craft of acting, leveraging her decades of experience to mentor new talent, a role that has gained national recognition.

Lalaine Vergara-Paras (Miranda Sanchez): Music and Independent Projects

Lalaine Vergara-Paras, who played Miranda Sanchez, was also confirmed to return for the *Lizzie McGuire* reboot, indicating her willingness to step back into the high-profile role.

Following *Lizzie McGuire*, Lalaine has focused on both acting and her music career as a singer-songwriter and bassist. While specific 2025 projects are often in the independent film and music space, her career is marked by a dedication to artistic expression across multiple mediums.

Her work in music and independent film keeps her connected to the entertainment world, maintaining a versatile career path that is a testament to her talent beyond the Disney Channel.

The actors in *Lizzie McGuire* have proven that life after a major Disney Channel hit can lead to diverse and fulfilling careers. From Hilary Duff's major return to music and starring roles, to Adam Lamberg's unexpected but successful pivot to non-profit management, the cast members continue to evolve, offering a compelling look at the enduring legacy of the early 2000s television. Their current projects and career shifts provide fans with a fresh and updated perspective on one of the most iconic ensembles in teen television history.

actors in lizzie mcguire
actors in lizzie mcguire

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