"Home Alone" Star Daniel Stern Creates Statue for Original House Owners
- 🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication
- 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
From Screen to Stone: Daniel Stern Immortalizes 'Home Alone' Moment in Statue for Original House Owners
Thirty-seven years after "Home Alone" captivated audiences worldwide, actor Daniel Stern, who played the bumbling burglar Marv Merchants, is creating a lasting tribute to the film’s enduring legacy – and specifically, to the family who generously allowed them to film at their Winnetka, Illinois home. Stern is sculpting a life-sized bronze statue depicting his character and Joe Pesci's Harry Lyme covered in soot after their infamous encounter with hot Christmas ornaments. The piece will be gifted to the owners of the house, John and Terri Bowen, as a heartfelt thank you for their hospitality and the pivotal role their property played in cinematic history.
The New York Post article details this unique artistic endeavor, highlighting Stern’s surprising foray into sculpture and the deep personal connection he feels to the film and its origins. While best known for his acting roles, Stern has quietly pursued various creative interests over the years, including directing and producing. This statue project represents a significant expansion of his artistic pursuits, demonstrating a desire to connect with fans in a tangible and meaningful way.
The Bowen family’s home became instantly recognizable after "Home Alone" premiered in 1990. The exterior shots of Kevin McCallister's house – the one that launched a thousand Christmas decorations – were filmed at their residence. While the interior scenes were shot on sound stages, the iconic facade and surrounding landscape remain synonymous with the holiday classic. For years, the Bowens have been gracious hosts to countless fans who visit their home, often leaving notes and gifts expressing their appreciation for the film's impact.
The idea for the statue originated from a conversation between Stern and the Bowen family during a recent reunion. Stern expressed his gratitude for their generosity and willingness to open their home to the production crew. The Bowens, in turn, shared their joy at witnessing the enduring popularity of "Home Alone" and the positive impact it has had on generations of viewers. It was this mutual appreciation that sparked the concept of creating a permanent monument to commemorate the film's connection to their property.
Stern began working on the sculpture earlier this year, meticulously recreating the scene where Marv and Harry are covered in melted ornaments after Kevin’s elaborate booby traps go into full effect. He is reportedly using photographs and video footage from the original film as reference points to ensure accuracy and capture the characters' expressions and postures perfectly. The article notes that Stern has been taking sculpting lessons for years, but this project represents his most ambitious artistic undertaking yet. He’s working with a team of skilled artisans to bring his vision to life, ensuring the final product is both faithful to the film and artistically compelling.
The statue isn't just about recreating a comedic moment; it aims to capture the spirit of "Home Alone" – a blend of mischief, family, and holiday cheer. Stern hopes that the sculpture will serve as a reminder of the film’s enduring appeal and the importance of kindness and generosity, themes central to the story.
The Bowen family is understandably thrilled with the gift. John Bowen told the New York Post, "It's just incredible. It's something we never expected." Terri Bowen added that it will be a wonderful addition to their property and a source of joy for visitors for years to come. They plan to place the statue prominently on their lawn, ensuring it’s visible to all who visit.
This project also underscores the continued fascination with "Home Alone" decades after its release. The film remains a cultural touchstone, regularly topping lists of holiday favorites and inspiring countless parodies and tributes. The recent news about Stern's sculpture has reignited fan excitement and generated renewed interest in the film’s production history. As reported by People Magazine, the Bowen family even had to increase security around their home due to the surge in visitors hoping to catch a glimpse of the iconic house.
Beyond the sentimental value, the statue represents a unique intersection of art, entertainment, and community. It's a testament to the power of film to create lasting memories and forge connections between actors, families, and fans. Daniel Stern’s dedication to this project demonstrates his respect for the legacy of "Home Alone" and his appreciation for the family who welcomed him into their home all those years ago, solidifying a moment in cinematic history into a tangible work of art. The completed statue is expected to be unveiled sometime next year, marking another chapter in the ongoing story of “Home Alone.”
I hope this article meets your requirements! Let me know if you'd like any adjustments or further details added.
Read the Full New York Post Article at:
[ https://nypost.com/2025/12/27/entertainment/home-alone-star-daniel-stern-scultping-statue-of-iconic-scene-for-owners-of-house/ ]