Where Are the Original Willy Wonka Film Child Stars Now?

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory fans are eagerly anticipating the release of the new Willy Wonka film, set to be a massive hit this Christmas. Starring Timothée Chalamet, the film is a prequel to the famous Roald Dahl story, focusing on the chocolate-maker's younger days. But what happened to the young stars of the original Charlie and the Chocolate Factory film? Let's take a look at where they are now.

Peter Ostrum – Charlie Bucket

Peter Ostrum, who played Charlie Bucket, the lucky lad from a poor family, chose to shy away from the limelight after the film's release. Instead, he pursued a career in veterinary medicine, working with horses and cows. Now 66, he lives in Glenfield, New York with his wife and two children.

Julie Dawn Cole – Veruca Salt

Julie Dawn Cole, who played the spoilt brat Veruca Salt, continued to act after the film. She landed roles in various TV shows, including Emmerdale, and even qualified as a fitness instructor. Now 66, she released a memoir about her time filming Willy Wonka and worked as a trained psychotherapist. She was married to fellow actor Nick Wilton but they divorced in 2002.

Denise Nickerson – Violet Beauregarde

Denise Nickerson, who portrayed gum-obsessed Violet Beauregarde, had a challenging life after the film. She suffered a severe stroke in 2018 and passed away in 2019. Before her death, she worked as an accountant and had two marriages, both ending in divorce. Her family set up a GoFundMe page to help cover her funeral expenses.

Michael Bollner – Augustus Gloop

Michael Bollner, who played gluttonous Augustus Gloop, left the showbiz world soon after the film. He pursued a career as a tax lawyer in Germany and revealed that the film wasn't as well-known there until the Johnny Depp version was released in 2005. Now 65, he enjoys a quiet life outside of the entertainment industry.

Paris Themmen – Mike Teevee

Paris Themmen, who portrayed TV-loving Mike Teevee, continued to work in the entertainment industry. He appeared in various TV shows and founded a travel company called Access International. Now 64, he occasionally acts, runs a photography business, and is married to Nikki Grillos.

Although the original child stars of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory took different paths after the film's release, their roles in the beloved classic will always be remembered.