The 2017 film Wonder, based on the novel by R.J. Palacio, captured the hearts of millions with its powerful message of kindness, courage, and acceptance. The story of Auggie Pullman, a boy with Treacher Collins syndrome navigating fifth grade, became a cultural phenomenon, largely due to the incredible performances of its central cast. As of December 2025, fans are looking back at the original film’s stars, especially with the 2024 release of the spiritual sequel, White Bird: A Wonder Story, which features a largely new ensemble, sparking curiosity about the original actors' current careers and why they didn't return.
This article provides the most recent updates on the main cast of Wonder, detailing their latest and upcoming projects for 2024 and 2025. From major studio thrillers to voice acting roles and new directorial ventures, the stars of the heartwarming family drama have been exceptionally busy, solidifying their status as some of Hollywood's most sought-after talents.
The Original Wonder Cast: Full Biography and Current Projects (2024–2025)
The core cast of Wonder delivered performances that resonated deeply with audiences, exploring complex themes of empathy, bullying, and the meaning of true friendship. Here is a look at the main actors and their recent career trajectories, including their latest projects.
- Jacob Tremblay (August "Auggie" Pullman): The young actor who played the film's protagonist, Auggie, has continued a prolific career in Hollywood. In 2024, he starred in the animated feature Orion and the Dark and the thriller Cold Copy. His upcoming slate is packed, including roles in The Toxic Avenger (2025), the drama Queen of Bones (2025), and the sci-fi film Sovereign (2025). Tremblay has also begun exploring work behind the camera, directing a short horror film at Prodigy Camp, marking a new phase in his career.
- Julia Roberts (Isabel Pullman): The Academy Award-winning actress who played Auggie’s fiercely protective mother, Isabel, has recently gravitated toward the thriller genre following the success of Leave the World Behind. Her next major project is the psychological thriller After the Hunt, directed by Luca Guadagnino, which is scheduled for release in late 2025. Roberts will star as a college professor grappling with a difficult situation, continuing her exciting trend of choosing provocative, high-stakes material.
- Owen Wilson (Nate Pullman): Wilson, who played the supportive and comedic father, Nate, is returning to his comedy roots. He is set to star in the upcoming comedy film Rolling Loud, and a new golf comedy titled Stick for Apple TV+. Fans of his earlier work can also anticipate a potential return to the beloved comedy franchise with the announced Focker In-Law in 2026, showcasing his enduring appeal in the comedy world.
- Izabela Vidovic (Olivia "Via" Pullman): Auggie's older sister, Via, was played by Izabela Vidovic. After Wonder, she has continued to work in television and film. She is known for her role in the series Supergirl and has taken on various independent film projects, maintaining a steady presence in the industry.
- Noah Jupe (Jack Will): Noah Jupe, who portrayed Auggie's loyal friend Jack Will, has become one of the most in-demand young actors in Hollywood. His post-Wonder career includes major roles in films like A Quiet Place, Ford v Ferrari, and the upcoming sci-fi feature The End (2025), demonstrating a clear trajectory toward high-profile, dramatic roles.
- Mandy Patinkin (Mr. Tushman): The veteran actor who played the kind-hearted school principal, Mr. Tushman, has continued his successful career in both film and television, most notably in the series The Good Fight and Homeland.
- Daveed Diggs (Mr. Browne): Diggs, who played Auggie's English teacher, Mr. Browne, is a multi-talented actor and musician. He has starred in the TV series Snowpiercer and the film The Little Mermaid (2023), as well as continuing his work in theater and music.
The Curious Case of the Wonder Cast and the White Bird Sequel
The biggest update in the Wonder universe is the release of the spin-off and part-sequel, White Bird: A Wonder Story, which premiered in 2024. This film is based on R.J. Palacio’s novel of the same name and shifts the focus from Auggie to Julian Albans, the former bully from the first film, as he learns about his grandmother's life during the Holocaust.
The core question for fans is: Why did Jacob Tremblay, Julia Roberts, and Owen Wilson not reprise their roles?
The answer lies in the story's structure. White Bird is primarily a historical drama that takes place decades earlier, focusing on Julian's grandmother, Sara, as a young girl. The main narrative is a flashback, making the presence of Auggie and his parents unnecessary for the central plot. The only original cast member to return is Bryce Gheisar, who reprises his role as Julian Albans, bridging the two films as the character who listens to his grandmother's story.
The new cast for the 2024 sequel includes Oscar-winning talent, proving the franchise's continued prestige:
- Helen Mirren as Older Sara / Grandmère.
- Gillian Anderson as Vivienne, Sara's mother.
- Ariella Glaser as Young Sara.
- Orlando Schwerdt as Julian, the boy who helps Sara.
The Enduring Topical Authority of the Wonder Film Universe
The success of Wonder and the subsequent production of White Bird showcase the powerful and enduring topical authority of R.J. Palacio’s universe. The films are not just box office hits but are vital cultural touchstones that explore essential human themes.
The key themes that give the Wonder franchise its lasting relevance include:
- Empathy and Kindness: The central message, "Choose Kind," is a simple yet profound call to action that remains relevant globally.
- Bullying and Acceptance: The film directly addresses the struggles of being different and the importance of acceptance, both from peers and from within oneself.
- The Power of Family: The Pullman family's unwavering support for Auggie is a major pillar of the story, highlighting the strength found in parental and sibling love.
- Resilience and Courage: Auggie's journey is one of immense personal courage, teaching audiences about resilience in the face of adversity.
The decision to follow Julian Albans' story in White Bird demonstrates the franchise's commitment to exploring the ripple effects of kindness and cruelty, expanding the narrative to show how the lessons of empathy apply universally, even in the darkest historical contexts. The introduction of Helen Mirren and Gillian Anderson brings new star power to the universe while maintaining the integrity of the original book's powerful messages.
The original Wonder cast may not have returned for the sequel, but their current projects—from Jacob Tremblay’s diverse filmography to Julia Roberts’ high-stakes thrillers and Owen Wilson’s comedies—prove that their careers are thriving. Their legacy in the Wonder universe, however, remains indelible, forever linked to a story that championed kindness to a global audience. The next few years promise exciting new work from every star who helped bring Auggie Pullman's world to life.
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