Acclaimed actor Tim Curry recently reflected on his time filming the beloved holiday classic “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York” during a visit to The Academy’s Margaret Herrick Library. The actor, now 79, shared his memories of the film and interactions with its young star, Macaulay Culkin, as well as his experiences at the Plaza Hotel in New York City where the movie was shot.
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Curry portrayed Mr. Hector, the concierge of the Plaza Hotel, in the 1992 film, which remains a favourite among audiences. While reminiscing with archivist Louise Hilton, Curry recounted his time at the iconic hotel, revealing that it was not the most enjoyable living arrangement. He noted, “It wasn’t particularly fun,” explaining that his accommodation had a rather uninspiring view—“I had a view of a brick wall.”


Despite the less-than-ideal lodging, Curry spoke warmly of his co-star, describing Culkin as a “very nice kid.” He reminisced about their time shooting together and shared a charming anecdote regarding the young actor. “Mac used to stay up watching late-night movies and fall asleep in the makeup chair,” Curry recalled, fondly remembering the dedication and spirit of the boy who played the mischievous Kevin McCallister.
In an interview with The Guardian earlier this month, Curry elaborated further on his experiences during the film’s production. He highlighted memorable encounters with high-profile personalities, including the then-businessman Donald Trump, who made a cameo appearance in the film. In a pivotal scene, Trump interacts with Culkin’s character, who finds himself lost and in need of direction in the bustling city.
Curry also shared an amusing encounter with Trump’s then-wife, Ivana Trump, when she was managing the hotel. Reflecting on their conversation, he recalled, “She knocked on my door and said, ‘Are you happy in your room? Do you like the way it looks?’” Curry, who admitted to disliking the room’s decor, diplomatically responded while withholding his true feelings.
The actor painted a picture of Trump’s eagerness during the shoot, as he was keen to introduce his then-girlfriend, Marla Maples, to director Chris Columbus. “He said, ‘I’ve got to get Marla to meet Chris Columbus because she’s a brilliant actress,’” Curry shared, adding a playful eyebrow raise, “And I thought: ‘Yeah, I’m sure.’”
Aside from his time on “Home Alone 2,” Curry’s illustrious career spans several iconic roles, showcasing his versatility and talent. He remains a beloved figure in the film and theatre world, best known for his performances in “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” “It,” and “The Three Musketeers.”
As Curry continues to look back on his career, he expresses gratitude for the opportunities he has had and the connections he made along the way. His reflections offer a glimpse into the unique experiences of working on high-profile sets and the memories that linger long after the final cut.
Though much of the glamour of Hollywood can be alluring, Curry’s candid accounts of his time filming remind us that behind the scenes, actors often encounter everyday struggles, just like the rest of us.
With “Home Alone 2” celebrating over three decades since its release, Curry’s reminiscences serve as a warm reminder of the film’s lasting impact on popular culture. As he continues to share stories from his remarkable career, fans remain eager to hear more from this beloved actor, whose charm and talent continue to captivate audiences around the world.
