Macaulay Culkin Ranks ‘Home Alone 2’ Above the First. But There’s More to the Story

There has long been a debate among “Home Alone” film fans, which is better, the original or sequel. Now the iconic films’ star, Macaulay Culkin, has entered the debate. But his choice is nor for the quality of the film.

Beyond a Salary

Appearing on the latest episode of the YouTube show “Hot Ones” on Aug. 7, the actor didn’t hesitate when asked whether he preferred the 1990 original or its 1992 sequel, “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York.” His answer? The sequel, and for a simple reason: “I got paid more.”

Culkin, who got a star on the Hollywood Walk on Fame in 2023, was just 10 when filming the first movie and 12 for the second. He revealed that his compensation for the follow-up was more than just a bigger paycheck. “I think I own 5 percent of the net, and also 15 percent of the merchandising,” he said, referencing the Talkboy recorder featured in the film. “So if you buy a Talkboy, I’m like, ‘Yeah, I’ll take 15 percent of that, thank you very much!’” he added jokingly, “By the way, buy a Talkboy this Christmas.”

Both films remain holiday staples and box office successes, with Culkin’s portrayal of Kevin McCallister, cementing his status as one of the most famous child stars of the ’90s. The films’ other stars include Joe Pesci, Catherine OHara, John Heard, Daniel Stern. The first “Home Alone” movie grossed $476,684,675 worldwide. Domestically, it raked in $285,761,243, and internationally it earned $190,923,432, according to Box Office Mojo. It had a relatively low budget of $18 million.

“Home Alone 2: Lost in New York” grossed $359 million worldwide, according to the Hollywood Reporter. Domestically, the film earned $173,585,516. Internationally, it made $185,409,334. 

Culkin’s net worth is estimated to be around $18 million.

Forty-four-year-old Culkin, now married to former child actor Brenda Song and a father of two, has leaned into nostalgia in recent years. Last holiday season, he hosted a screening tour called “A Nostalgic Night With Macaulay Culkin,” featuring Q&As where he shared behind-the-scenes stories.