'Home Alone' star Daniel Stern who earned millions from special contract reveals new career

VENTURA, CALIFORNIA: Daniel Stern, the actor beloved for his role as Marv Murchins, one of the bumbling Wet Bandits in the iconic 'Home Alone' films, has traded Hollywood fame for a tranquil life on his farm in Ventura, California.

Now a farmer, Stern is reflecting on his journey from the silver screen to the fields in his latest book, 'Home and Alone', according to Fox News.

Daniel Stern's life of tangerines and art

Daniel Stern recently took to TikTok to share glimpses of his serene post-Hollywood lifestyle, which includes raising cattle, growing tangerines, and creating sculptures.

In one video, he showcased his process of juicing and freezing tangerines to gift to friends.

Not just a farmer, Stern is also a talented sculptor. He proudly displayed a recent creation, a striking sculpture of a woman lounging in a chair.

Daniel Stern recalls a career he almost left behind

Daniel Stern’s journey to becoming a household name nearly did not happen.

In a recent interview with The Los Angeles Times, he revealed that his role in 'Home Alone' was almost recast due to his initial decision to back out over contract disputes.

“I got a call saying they had redone the shooting schedule and needed me for eight weeks instead of six,” Stern recalled.

“When I asked if they’d increase my pay proportionally, they said no,” he added.

Producers cast another actor but ultimately asked Stern to return after just a few days of rehearsals. He then accepted the request, a decision he describes as life-changing.

Daniel Stern's challenging negotiation for 'Home Alone' sequel

Following the massive success of the first 'Home Alone' movie in 1990, Daniel Stern entered lengthy negotiations for the sequel, 'Home Alone 2: Lost in New York'.

The actor revealed in his memoir that while he was initially offered $600,000, double his original salary, his co-stars Joe Pesci and Macaulay Culkin were making significantly more.

Culkin, the franchise’s lead, reportedly secured $5 million plus 5% of gross box office profits, while Pesci earned between $2 million and $3 million.

Determined to secure a fair deal, Stern fired his agent and took over negotiations himself, ultimately landing $1.5 million and 1% of the gross profits.

“I knew they couldn’t do the movie without me, but I didn’t want to be too greedy,” Stern admitted.

Daniel Stern's gratitude for an iconic 'Home Alone' role

Despite his ups and downs, Daniel Stern remains grateful for his time in the 'Home Alone' films.

The actor described the joy of being part of a holiday tradition for millions around the world.

“How many people are stopped by perfect strangers who say, ‘I love you. My family loves you. You bring us joy,’” Stern said.

“It’s something I’ll always treasure,” he shared.