From Waldo To Peter Allen: 7 Surprising Facts About Blake McIver Ewing's Life After Child Stardom

Few child actors navigate the transition to adult careers with the grace and artistic integrity of Blake McIver Ewing. As of December 2025, the former star of *The Little Rascals* and *Full House* has firmly established himself as a prominent figure in the world of live theater and cabaret, a significant pivot from his early days in Hollywood. His career is a fascinating case study in reinvention, highlighted by a major 2024 stage role and a candid discussion about the complexities of growing up in the spotlight.

Ewing, who once charmed audiences as the precocious Waldo in the 1994 film *The Little Rascals* and Michelle Tanner's friend Derek S. Boyd on the beloved sitcom *Full House*, is now focusing on directing and performing in theatrical productions across New York and Los Angeles. Most notably, he starred as the legendary performer Peter Allen in OFC Creations’ production of *The Boy From Oz* in September 2024, proving his enduring talent and versatility on stage. This article dives deep into the life, career, and surprising current projects of the actor who has openly embraced the title of a "recovering child actor."

Blake McIver Ewing: Full Biography and Profile

Blake McIver Ewing, born Blake McIver, is an American actor, singer, director, and writer who gained fame in the 1990s as a highly in-demand child star. His career trajectory has taken him from mainstream film and television to a celebrated presence in the world of cabaret and theatrical arts.

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• Full Name: Blake McIver Ewing (also known as Blake McIver and Blake Ewing)
• Date of Birth: March 27, 1985
• Age: 40 (as of March 27, 2025)
• Birthplace: Los Angeles, California, United States
• Parents: Bill Ewing and Susan McIver
• Sibling: Brother, Zack Ewing (also an actor)
• Notable Child Roles: Waldo in *The Little Rascals* (1994), Derek S. Boyd in *Full House* (1992–1995)
• Adult Career Focus: Live Theater, Directing, Cabaret Performance, Voiceover Work
• Recent Major Role: Peter Allen in *The Boy From Oz* (September 2024)
• Personal Life: Openly gay
• Self-Description: "Recovering Child Actor" (Used in his social media bio)

The Little Rascals to Full House: The Iconic Child Roles

Ewing’s early career was defined by two distinct, yet equally memorable, television and film characters that cemented his place in 90s pop culture history. His ability to portray characters with both a sophisticated edge and a comedic flair made him a standout among his peers.

Waldo in The Little Rascals (1994)

In the 1994 film adaptation of *The Little Rascals*, Blake McIver Ewing took on the role of Waldo, a character who was originally a shy, poetry-reading boy in the classic *Our Gang* shorts. Ewing’s interpretation, however, transformed Waldo into a pompous, wealthy, and dramatically over-the-top rival for Alfalfa’s affections toward Darla. Waldo's catchphrases, including his memorable delivery of "I'm the boy with the money," instantly became iconic. The film remains a nostalgic favorite, and the character of Waldo is perhaps the role most casual fans immediately associate with Ewing.

Derek S. Boyd in Full House (1992–1995)

Simultaneously, Ewing was a recurring presence on one of the biggest sitcoms of the era, *Full House*. He played Derek S. Boyd, a friend of Michelle Tanner (played by the Olsen twins). Derek was often portrayed as a talented singer and performer, a character trait that mirrored Ewing’s real-life aptitude for music. His appearances on the show, which ran from 1992 to 1995, further solidified his reputation as a versatile young performer capable of holding his own alongside established stars.

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A New Spotlight: Directing, Cabaret, and The Boy From Oz

The transition from a high-profile child actor to a working adult artist is notoriously difficult, but Ewing has successfully navigated this shift by embracing the world of live performance and directing. He has openly discussed the challenges of "recovering" from child stardom, a term he uses to describe the process of finding an authentic career path outside the confines of early fame.

The Pivot to Theatrical Direction and Cabaret

Ewing’s passion for the stage is evident in his current focus. He has spent considerable time directing live theater, showcasing his skills behind the scenes. Before the pandemic, he directed a show featuring Jackie Cox, a popular contestant from *RuPaul’s Drag Race*, demonstrating his involvement in the vibrant, contemporary theater and cabaret scene. This work allows him to explore complex narratives and artistic expression in a more intimate setting than mainstream Hollywood often provides.

His work in cabaret is particularly significant, allowing him to connect directly with audiences through music and storytelling. This form of performance is deeply personal and often allows artists to explore themes of identity and personal history, which aligns with his candid nature regarding his past.

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Starring in The Boy From Oz (2024)

The most recent and significant update to Blake McIver Ewing’s career is his starring role as Peter Allen in the musical *The Boy From Oz*. This production, which opened the OFC Creations’ 2024-2025 season in September 2024, marks a major return to the spotlight for the actor in a leading, adult role. Peter Allen, the subject of the musical, was an Australian singer-songwriter and entertainer known for his flamboyant stage presence and hits like "I Go to Rio" and "Arthur's Theme (Best That You Can Do)."

Taking on the role of Peter Allen is a demanding task that requires immense vocal talent, charisma, and dramatic depth. Ewing’s performance in *The Boy From Oz* is a testament to his evolution as a performer and his commitment to the craft of musical theater.

Voiceover Work and The Legacy of Child Stardom

Beyond the stage, Ewing has maintained a successful career in voice acting, a field that allowed him to focus on his craft while prioritizing a more private life. This career path was a strategic choice, especially as he became an adult, giving him the flexibility to pursue other artistic endeavors.

Embracing the "Recovering Child Actor" Label

Ewing’s decision to label himself a "Recovering Child Actor" is a powerful statement about the unique psychological and professional challenges faced by those who grow up in the industry. This phrase highlights the need to redefine oneself after a childhood spent performing and the process of healing from the pressures of early fame. By being open about this, he joins a growing number of former child stars who are speaking out about the complexities of their experiences, offering a more nuanced perspective on the glamorous façade of Hollywood.

His current work—directing, performing cabaret, and starring in challenging musical roles like Peter Allen—shows that his recovery is not about leaving the arts, but about taking control of his narrative and choosing projects that are creatively fulfilling on his own terms. Blake McIver Ewing’s story is one of successful artistic evolution, proving that a childhood spent in the public eye can lead to a rich and authentic adult career in the arts.