Former Elf Star Daniel Tay: Unrecognisable 21 Years Later

From Hollywood to Teaching

Elf, one of the most beloved Christmas movies, featured a star-studded cast that captured hearts worldwide. However, while Will Ferrell, the movie's main star, continues to shine in Hollywood, Daniel Tay, who played Buddy the Elf's brother, Michael, has taken a different path.

A New Chapter

Now 31 years old, Daniel Tay left the glitz of Hollywood behind in 2009 to pursue a career in teaching. After his role in Elf at the age of 12, Daniel explored a few other movie roles before enrolling at Yale University and obtaining a BA in Economics.

Teaching and Acting

Currently working as an SAT instructor at Veritas Prep, a test preparation company for graduate schools, Daniel's passion for teaching shines through. Beyond his teaching role, he continues to pursue his love for acting and writing.

Elf's Enduring Legacy

Despite stepping away from Hollywood, Daniel's portrayal of Michael in Elf continues to resonate with audiences, making the movie a perennial Christmas favorite. Elf's success at the box office, grossing $220 million worldwide, solidifies its place in holiday traditions.

Elf Fan Theories

While Elf remains a holiday classic, some intriguing fan theories add new layers to the movie. From sinister theories to connections with other films like Step Brothers, Elf continues to captivate audiences with its charm and creativity.

Watch Daniel Tay in Elf

For a trip down memory lane and to see Daniel Tay's memorable performance, Elf is available for streaming on Prime Video, keeping the spirit of the Christmas classic alive for new generations.