Where Are They Now? The 'Out Of The Box' Cast Reunion And Their Surprising New Careers

The magic of the cardboard box playhouse is still alive in the hearts of a generation, and as of late , the curiosity about the beloved Out of the Box cast has reached an all-time high. For many Millennials and Gen Z viewers, the Disney Channel's Playhouse Disney block was defined by the infectious energy of hosts Tony James and Vivian Bayubay McLaughlin, who taught millions of children about friendship, imagination, and the power of DIY crafts.

The Emmy-nominated series, which ran from 1998 to 2004, was a seminal piece of 90s children's television, but what happened to the creative duo and the rotating cast of young performers after they sang their final "Goodbye Song?" The answers are fascinating and reveal a cast who have continued their creative journeys in music, acting, and the visual arts, including a major star from the hit show Californication and a recent, viral TikTok reunion that sent fans into a nostalgic frenzy.

The Main Hosts: Tony James and Vivian Bayubay McLaughlin

The heart and soul of Out of the Box were the two hosts, Tony and Vivian, who created a safe, imaginative space entirely within the confines of their signature cardboard box playhouse. Their chemistry was undeniable, and their post-show careers have remained firmly rooted in the performing arts.

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Tony James: From Cardboard Boxes to the Nashville Music Scene

Tony James, who played "Tony" on the show, brought his musical talent and boundless energy to every episode, often leading the show's sing-alongs. His biography is a testament to his versatile career in the arts.

• Role on Out of the Box: Host, "Tony" (1998–2004).
• Pre-Out of the Box Career: James was a cast member in the critically acclaimed theatrical sensation STOMP, a high-energy, percussive show that uses everyday objects to create music and rhythm.
• Current Status: Tony James is a highly active professional musician, actor, and voiceover artist.
• Recent Focus: He has moved into the vibrant Nashville, Tennessee creative scene, where he continues to work on various music and theatrical projects.
• Creative Work: James’s work, which includes music and voice-overs, continues to expose young audiences to the joy of music making, a theme he championed on the Disney Channel show.

Vivian Bayubay McLaughlin: From Playhouse Disney to Music Director

Vivian Bayubay McLaughlin, known as "Vivian" on the show, was the co-host who guided viewers through the show's beloved DIY crafts and art projects. Her career has evolved into one focused on nurturing the next generation of performers.

• Role on Out of the Box: Host, "Vivian" (1998–2004).
• Current Status: She is an accomplished actress, singer, and professional music director.
• Teaching and Directing: Vivian now lives in California, where she works as a voice and piano teacher. She also serves as a music director for various schools, community productions, and children's theaters.
• Recent Projects: Bayubay McLaughlin recently led a production of Jim Henson's Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas, showcasing her continued involvement in family-friendly theatrical productions.
• Fan Engagement: She has been featured on the Broadway Podcast Network, discussing her career, and actively participates in the nostalgia surrounding the show, including the viral TikTok reunion.

The Child Cast: Where Are the Young Stars Now?

The unique format of Out of the Box featured a rotating group of child actors who participated in the songs, games, and storytelling. While many only appeared for a single season, three notable cast members went on to pursue careers in the arts, one of whom became a major television star.

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1. Madeleine Martin: The Breakout Star

Madeleine Martin appeared as a series regular on Out of the Box before becoming one of the most recognizable faces from the show's young cast. Her career trajectory is arguably the most famous.

• Role on Out of the Box: Child Cast Member (Series Regular).
• Voice Acting: She voiced the title character, JoJo Tickle, on the popular Playhouse Disney animated series JoJo's Circus (2003–2007).
• Major TV Role: Martin is best known for portraying Becca Moody, the daughter of David Duchovny's character, on the hit Showtime series Californication, which ran from 2007 to 2014.
• Theatre Career: She has also appeared in Broadway revivals, including the Roundabout Theatre Company's production of Picnic.

2. Brandon Zemel: The Solo Music Artist

Brandon Zemel, who appeared in the first season, has followed a path similar to Tony James, focusing on his passion for music in the years since the show ended.

• Role on Out of the Box: Child Cast Member, "Brandon" (Season 1).
• Current Focus: Zemel is currently pursuing a solo music career and is actively working in the studio on his own material.
• Fan Connection: He has remained connected to the show’s legacy by appearing on The Box Cutter, a dedicated podcast that breaks down and analyzes episodes of the classic Disney show, offering a unique, behind-the-scenes perspective for nostalgic fans.

3. Celine Ordioni: The Interdisciplinary Visual Artist

Celine Ordioni, another child cast member, has channeled the show's emphasis on arts and crafts into a sophisticated career as a visual artist.

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• Role on Out of the Box: Child Cast Member, "Celine."
• Current Status: Ordioni is an interdisciplinary artist based in Los Angeles, California.
• Artistic Mediums: Her work delves into various mediums, including installations, with one notable project being a permanent utility box installation in Los Angeles.
• Creative Philosophy: She has spoken about the importance of "stepping out of the box" in her artistic journey, a clear nod to the show that helped launch her creative path.

The Enduring Legacy of 'Out of the Box' and the Cardboard Box Playhouse

The impact of Out of the Box extends far beyond the career paths of its cast. The show, which was a cornerstone of the Playhouse Disney block, is remembered fondly for its simple, yet profound, approach to early childhood education. It was a refreshing change from the high-budget, over-produced children's programming that began to dominate the airwaves. The show's focus on low-cost, accessible DIY crafts—using everyday items like toilet paper rolls, paper plates, and, of course, cardboard boxes—encouraged viewers to use their imagination rather than relying on expensive toys.

The show's core message of friendship, imagination, and creativity continues to resonate today, especially with the rise of nostalgic content on platforms like TikTok and YouTube. The hosts, Tony and Vivian, have embraced this nostalgia, often participating in interviews and social media posts that celebrate the show's enduring appeal. The fact that the cast members, from the hosts to the child actors, have all continued to pursue creative, artistic, and educational careers—from being a musician in Nashville, a music director in California, a star on Californication, a solo music artist, and an interdisciplinary visual artist—proves that the "out of the box" spirit of creativity truly stuck with them.

Whether you remember the "Goodbye Song" or the intricate craft projects, the Out of the Box cast has confirmed that their time in the cardboard playhouse was not just a job, but a foundational experience that shaped their lives and continues to inspire their creative endeavors today.