Devon Sawa Admits He Hated Talking About “Casper” for Years After Breakout Role (Exclusive) 

**Devon Sawa Reflects on the Enduring Legacy of ‘Casper’ and Embraces New Opportunities in ‘Coven Academy’**

Devon Sawa, the actor best known for his charming portrayal of the friendly ghost in the 1995 film *Casper*, has opened up about his complicated relationship with the character and how it has shaped his career. Speaking with *PEOPLE*, the now 48-year-old actor shared insights into how he has come to accept his role as the iconic ghost and the impact it has had on his life and career.

When *Casper* was first released in May 1995, it introduced audiences to a heartwarming story featuring Christina Ricci as Kat Harvey, a young girl who befriends Casper, a ghost living in her late uncle’s haunted mansion. Sawa’s memorable appearance as Casper’s human form left a lasting mark on pop culture, particularly with his poignant line, “Can I keep you?” which continues to resonate with fans of the film.

Despite the film’s success and its iconic status, which contributed significantly to Sawa’s rise to fame, he initially found it challenging to discuss *Casper*. For many years, the public and media alike seemed fixated on the role, often relegating his other work to the background. Reflecting on that time, Sawa admitted, “There was a time in my life I was like, ‘I don’t wanna talk about Casper. How dare you? I’m a thespian.’ But… I gotta embrace it. It’s why I’m here. It’s what got me here.”

*Casper* was a major box office success, grossing nearly $291 million worldwide. Its enduring legacy is underscored by plans for a theatrical re-release in 2025 to celebrate its 30th anniversary. During this nostalgia-infused moment in cinema history, Sawa finds himself in a unique position – a beloved actor associated with a film that has transcended its era and continues to be cherished by new generations.

Now, as Sawa embarks on a new chapter in his career, he is eager to establish a different connection with audiences through his latest role in *Coven Academy*. This new Disney series, set in a magical boarding school in New Orleans, allows Sawa to step into the shoes of Mr. Cole, a warlock professor. In this role, he hopes to resonate with younger viewers in a way that mirrors the profound impact *Casper* had on him.

Sawa’s transition into another supernatural role indicates a deeper embrace of the genre that cultivated much of his early fame. He expressed enthusiasm for his character in *Coven Academy*, noting, “I think it’s going to be one of those [shows] that hopefully in 20 years, people will be like, ‘Oh, Mr. Cole.’ And I won’t be able to shake that either.”

In addition to Sawa, the cast of *Coven Academy* features a mix of established and emerging talent, including Tiffani Thiessen, Malina Pauli Weissman, and Malachi Barton. The series aims to capture the imagination of young audiences while allowing Sawa to introduce another memorable character into his repertoire.

As *Coven Academy* begins streaming on Disney+ and Hulu, the actor remains optimistic about the potential for a new generation to become captivated by his work. He acknowledges that *Casper*, while an unforgettable milestone in his career, is just one part of his story. The journey from avoiding the film to embracing its legacy marks a significant evolution in Sawa’s perspective and approach to his craft.

This current stage of Sawa’s career serves as a reminder of the evolution that occurs in the life of an artist. With a successful filmography to look back on, and fresh projects on the horizon, he seems poised to carve out new paths while acknowledging the cherished past that continues to guide him.

As Sawa encourages a younger audience to join him in the magical world of *Coven Academy*, he remains a testament to the idea that every role, no matter how large or small, contributes to the tapestry of an actor’s career. By embracing both his past and present, Devon Sawa is set to continue captivating audiences for years to come.