Top 10 Movies and TV Shows Starring McKenna Grace

Mckenna Grace has quickly become a prominent figure in both the film and television industries, brilliantly portraying younger versions of iconic characters while also carving out a unique niche for herself. Beginning her career at the tender age of six in 2012, she featured in early projects such as Crash & Bernstein and The Goodwin Games. However, it was her role as Faith Newman on the long-running soap opera The Young and the Restless that truly propelled her into the spotlight.

Grace not only shone in television but also made waves in prominent films as a child star, with standout performances in Gifted, I, Tonya, and The Bad Seed. Her experience in playing younger counterparts in various series and movies, including young Emma Swan in Once Upon a Time, young Carol Danvers in Captain Marvel, and young Madison Lake in Malignant, has showcased her versatility. However, it was her roles in Ghostbusters: Afterlife and The Handmaid’s Tale that marked her major breakout moments.

10 Fuller House (2016-2020)

Rose Harbenberger

Mckenna Grace made a memorable appearance in Fuller House, a legacy sequel following the beloved Full House. Set against the backdrop of adulthood, it details the lives of D.J. Tanner (Candace Cameron Bure) and Stephanie Tanner (Jodie Sweetin) as they navigate parenting after personal losses. Grace plays the role of Rose Harbenberger, the daughter of C.J. Harbenberger (Steve’s fiancé). Rose becomes inseparable from Max Fuller, D.J.’s son, embodying the essence of a family friend reminiscent of the character Kimmy Gibler.

9 The Young And The Restless (2013-2015)

Faith Newman

Grace’s significant breakthrough role came with the iconic soap opera The Young and the Restless, playing Faith Newman, the daughter of Nick and Sharon Newman. Originally portrayed by babies from 2009 to 2011 and then briefly taken on by Alyvia Alyn Lind, the character became Grace’s from 2013 until 2015, when Lind returned to the role. This pivotal role not only showcased Grace’s talent but also drew attention towards her future opportunities in shows like The Vampire Diaries.

8 Captain Marvel (2019)

Young Carol Danvers

In 2019, Grace entered the Marvel Cinematic Universe as young Carol Danvers in Captain Marvel. This role primarily featured her in flashback scenes, depicting Carol’s childhood experiences before evolving into the superhero. Grace’s prior experience as young characters, including her portrayal of a young Tonya Harding in I, Tonya, lent credibility to her performance. Brie Larson portrayed the adult Carol Danvers, making Grace’s younger version an integral part of the narrative.

7 Designated Survivor (2016-2019)

Penny Kirkman

Grace showcased her dramatic talent in the political thriller Designated Survivor, which aired concurrently with Fuller House. The show revolves around Kiefer Sutherland’s character, Thomas Kirkman, who unexpectedly becomes President after a catastrophic attack. Grace plays his daughter, Penny, a key figure who adds depth to Kirkman’s personal storyline as he navigates the challenges of leadership amidst turmoil.

6 A Friend Of The Family (2022)

Jan Broberg

In 2022, Grace starred in the miniseries A Friend of the Family, a gripping true-crime drama on Peacock. Based on the harrowing true story of Jan Broberg, who was kidnapped in the 1970s, Grace portrayed the older Jan, offering a powerful performance that resonated with audiences. The series, evaluated positively by critics with a 92% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, was crafted with the collaboration of Jan Broberg herself, adding authenticity to the dramatization of her experiences.

5 Young Sheldon (2018-2023)

Paige Swanson

In Young Sheldon, which premiered in 2018, Grace played Paige Swanson— a brilliant young girl and a rival to the genius Sheldon Cooper. Throughout her time on the show, their dynamic evolves from rivalry to a respectful camaraderie as they both navigate the challenges of being gifted children in a conventional educational setting. Grace’s portrayal highlighted her ability to convey complex emotions while maintaining a youthful charm.

4 Annabelle Comes Home (2019)

Judy Warren

Grace ventured into the horror genre with her standout role in Annabelle Comes Home, part of the acclaimed Conjuring Universe. She plays Judy Warren, the daughter of ghost hunters Lorraine and Ed Warren. In this supernatural tale, Judy finds herself facing off against the vengeful spirit of Annabelle when she inadvertently unleashes it while her babysitter is present. Grace’s performance as a young girl confronting her fears was both captivating and unsettling, earning her recognition in the horror community.

3 Ghostbusters: Afterlife (2021)

Phoebe Spengler

Grace’s most significant role arose in the beloved Ghostbusters franchise. She stars as Phoebe Spengler in both Ghostbusters: Afterlife and its sequel, joining a talented cast that includes Finn Wolfhard and Paul Rudd. Phoebe, a highly intelligent granddaughter of Egon Spengler, emerges as one of the new generation of Ghostbusters equipped with the brains and courage to take on supernatural threats. Her pivotal role helped relaunch the franchise for modern audiences, blending nostalgia with fresh new faces.

2 The Haunting Of Hill House (2018)

Theodora “Theo”Crain (Young)

In the critically acclaimed series The Haunting of Hill House, Grace played young Theodora “Theo”Crain, navigating a narrative that traverses two timelines and examines the traumatic effects of childhood on adulthood. The series received remarkable praise, leading to a Certified Fresh rating of 93% on Rotten Tomatoes. Grace’s portrayal of young Theo drew viewers into her character’s complex emotional journey, leaving a lasting imprint on the viewers.

1 The Handmaid’s Tale (2021-2022)

Esther Keyes

In a powerful addition to her filmography, Grace joined the acclaimed Hulu series The Handmaid’s Tale, based on Margaret Atwood’s dystopian novel. Portraying Esther Keyes, a young woman thrust into a grim world stripped of freedom and rights, Grace’s performance earned her a Primetime Emmy nomination. Her character’s storyline, marked by resilience and defiance, underscores Grace’s versatility as an actress committed to compelling storytelling.

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