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Today β€” 8 January 2025News

See what the 'Cheaper by the Dozen' cast is up to now, over 20 years later

8 January 2025 at 06:35
composite image of alison stoner in cheaper by the dozen and the actor on a red carpet today
"Cheaper by the Dozen" came out in 2003.

Disney; Kevin Winter/Getty Images

  • It's been over 20 years since "Cheaper by the Dozen" (2003) hit theaters.Β 
  • Steve Martin, Bonnie Hunt, and Richard Jenkins have continued their successful careers.
  • Hilary Duff, Tom Welling, Ashton Kutcher, and Alyson Stoner have all become big names.

Β "Cheaper by the Dozen," a remake of the 1950 family comedy, was released in 2003.Β 

The film starred Steve Martin and Bonnie Hunt as Tom and Kate Baker, who have 12 children together.Β 

Here's what the cast of "Cheaper by the Dozen" is up to now, over 20 years later.

Steve Martin, who starred as Tom Baker, has continued his successful career in the entertainment industry.
steve martin cheaper by the dozen
Steve Martin played Tom Baker in "Cheaper by the Dozen."

20th Century Fox; CRAIG SJODIN/Getty Images

Steve Martin played Tom Baker, a college football coach who has 12 kids with his wife, Kate.Β 

Martin was a well-established entertainer before he took on the role. He was best known for his work as a comedian and comedic actor on shows like CBS' "The Sonny and Cher Comedy Hour" in the 1970s and in films like "Parenthood" (1989) and "Father of the Bride" (1991).

After the film, he continued solidifying his legacy as a writer, comedian, actor, and musician.Β 

In addition to writing for and hosting various award shows, he continued to be a host and special guest on NBC's "Saturday Night Live." He also continued to act, starring in films like "Cheaper by the Dozen 2" (2005),Β  "The Pink Panther" (2006), "Baby Mama" (2008), and "It's Complicated" (2009).

In 2007, he earned a Kennedy Center Honors β€” a lifetime achievement award for the performing arts.

Martin has also had a successful music and comedy career, earning five Grammy awards for his comedy recordings and bluegrass albums.

In 2016, he was nominated for two Tony awards for his work on the score for the Broadway musical "Bright Star."

Recently, Martin returned to his famous role in the short "Father of the Bride Part 3 (ish)" (2020) and released the book "A Wealth of Pigeons: A Cartoon Collection" with illustrator Harry Bliss.

The actor also stars alongside Maritn Short and Selena Gomez on Hulu's "Only Murders in the Building."

Bonnie Hunt starred as Kate Baker, and she's still working as an actress, writer, producer, and comedian.
bonnie hunt cheaper by the dozen
Bonnie Hunt played Kate Baker in "Cheaper by the Dozen."

20th Century Fox; MARIO ANZUONI/Reuters

Bonnie Hunt played Kate Baker, Tom's wife and the mother to their 12 children.Β 

Like Martin, Hunt was well-established in the entertainment industry prior to her role in "Cheaper by the Dozen." She starred in films like "Beethoven" (1992) and "Jumanji" (1995), and she voiced characters in films likeΒ  "A Bug's Life" (1998) and "Monster's Inc." (2001).

She also starred on several TV shows, like CBS's "Bonnie" from 1995 to 1996 and ABC's "Life With Bonnie" from 2002 to 2004

In 2005, she returned as Kate in "Cheaper by the Dozen 2." After the film, she continued her work in Hollywood as a host on her talk show "The Bonnie Hunt Show" from 2008 to 2010.Β 

She also continued voice acting in animated movies such as the "Toy Story" films and shorts, the three "Cars" movies, "Monsters University" (2013), and "Zootopia" (2016).

In more recent years, she starred on Showtime's "Escape at Dannemora," appeared in "The Ultimate Playlist of Noise," and voiced her characters on the Disney+ series "Monsters at Work," "Cars on the Road," and "Zootopia+."

The actor is currently an executive producer of the podcast series "Going Reno."

Richard Jenkins, who starred as Shake McGuire, is an award-winning actor.
richard jenkins cheaper by the dozen
Richard Jenkins played Shake in "Cheaper by the Dozen."

20th Century Fox; Arthur Mola/Invision/AP

Richard Jenkins appeared in "Cheaper by the Dozen" as Shake McGuire, a colleague and friend of Tom.

Like Martin and Hunt, Jenkins had a long acting career before the film. He is well-known for his role as Nathaniel Fisher on HBO's "Six Feet Under" from 2001 to 2005.

Following his role in "Cheaper by the Dozen," he continued to appear in a variety of hit films, including "Burn After Reading" (2008), "Step Brothers" (2008), "Let Me In" (2010), "Jack Reacher" (2012), and "The Cabin in the Woods" (2012).Β 

He was nominated for an Oscar for his role in "The Visitor" (2007) and won an Emmy for his role on the HBO limited drama series "Olive Kitteridge" (2014). Jenkins was also nominated for an Oscar, Golden Globe, and Screen Actors Guild Award for his supporting role in "The Shape of Water" (2017).

Jenkins starred on Epix's "Berlin Station" from 2016 to 2019, and he was in "Kajillionaire" (2020), "The Last Shift" (2020), and "Nightmare Alley" (2021).Β 

Most recently, the actor appeared on Netflix's "Dahmer β€” Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story" and voiced a character in "If" (2024).

Piper Perabo starred as Nora, the Baker family's eldest daughter.
piper perabo cheaper by the dozen
Piper Perabo played Nora Baker.

20th Century Fox; MARIO ANZUONI/Reuters

Piper Perabo starred as the oldest Baker, Nora, in "Cheaper by the Dozen."

Prior to the film, Perabo made a name for herself starring as Violet Sanford in "Coyote Ugly" (2000).

Along with starring in "Cheaper by the Dozen 2," she went on to appear in films such as "The Prestige" (2006), "Because I Said So" (2007), "Beverly Hills Chihuahua" (2008), "Looper" (2012), and "Angel Has Fallen" (2019).

Most recently, Perabo appeared in "Spontaneous" (2020).Β 

On TV, Perabo has appeared on USA Network's "Covert Affairs," Showtime's "Penny Dreadful: City of Angels," Paramount Network's "Yellowstone," and Showtime's "Billions."

Ashton Kutcher, who is now a successful actor, producer, and activist, starred as Nora's boyfriend.
ashton kutcher cheaper by the dozen
Ashton Kutcher had a supporting role in the film as Hank.

20th Century Fox; Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP

Ashton Kutcher played Nora's boyfriend Hank, a self-obsessed actor, in "Cheaper by the Dozen."Β 

Kutcher became a household name thanks to his roles on Fox's "That '70s Show" from 1998 to 2006 and in the film "Dude, Where's My Car?" (2000).

The same year "Cheaper by the Dozen" was released, Kutcher also started his own production company, Katalyst.Β 

Following his role as Nora's boyfriend, Kutcher continued to act, starring in films such as "The Butterfly Effect" (2004), "What Happens in Vegas" (2008), "No Strings Attached" (2011), and "Jobs" (2013).

He also worked on shows like CBS's "Two and a Half Men" from 2011 to 2015 and Netflix's "The Ranch" from 2016 to 2020.

Beyond acting, he has established himself as an entrepreneur by investing in companies like Skype, Foursquare, Airbnb, and Uber. He's also an activist known for cofounding the human-rights organization Thorn, a nonprofit that works to combat child sexual exploitation, in 2009.

Recently, Kutcher appeared in "Vengeance" (2022) and "Your Place or Mine" (2023), and he reprised his role on Netflix's "That '90s Show."Β 

Tom Welling continued his career on TV after starring as Charlie Baker.
tom welling cheaper by the dozen
Tom Welling starred as Charlie Baker.

20th Century Fox; Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images for A Sense of Home

Tom Welling played the second-oldest Baker kid in "Cheaper by the Dozen."Β 

Welling made it big by starring as Clark Kent on The CW's "Smallville" from 2001 to 2011.

He's also appeared in a handful of films, including "Cheaper by the Dozen 2," but the bulk of his career has been on TV.Β 

In recent years, Welling starred on Fox/Netflix's "Lucifer," played Vincent Corbo on Viaplay's "Professionals," and appeared as Samuel Campbell on The CW's "The Winchesters."

His most recent credits were in "Clear Cut" (2024) and "Mafia Wars" (2024).Β 

Hilary Duff expanded her career after starring as Lorraine Baker.
hilary duff cheaper by the dozen
Hilary Duff played Lorraine Baker.

20th Century Fox; Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP

Hilary Duff was at a peak in her career when she played Lorraine, Baker kid number three.

She got her big break starring on the Disney Channel's "Lizzie McGuire" from 2001 to 2004. She also appeared in films like "Casper Meets Wendy" (1998), "Cadet Kelly" (2002), and "Agent Cody Banks" (2003).

After appearing in "Cheaper by the Dozen," Duff went on to star in a variety of popular films, including "A Cinderella Story" (2004), "Raise Your Voice" (2004), "Cheaper by the Dozen 2" (2005), and "Material Girls" (2006).

She's also starred on TV Land's "Younger."

Over the years, Duff made a name for herself in the music industry. She released her first pop album, "Metamorphosis," in 2003 and released a few more studio albums from 2004 to 2015.

In 2023, Duff and her husband, Matthew Koma, released a cover of the Third Eye Blind's "Never Let You Go" with the music group RAC.

The actor most recently starred on Hulu's "How I Met Your Father."

Kevin G. Schmidt played Henry Baker, and he's acted in a few projects since.
kevin schmidt cheaper by the dozen
Kevin G. Schmidt played Henry in "Cheaper by the Dozen."

20th Century Fox; Albert L. Ortega/Getty Image

Kevin G. Schmidt played Henry, Baker kid number four, in "Cheaper by the Dozen."

Although Henry is still Schmidt's most well-known role, which he reprised in "Cheaper by the Dozen 2," he appeared in a few other films, like "Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel" (2009).

He also worked on CBS's "The Young and the Restless" from 2008 to 2012 and Cartoon Network's "Unnatural History" in 2010.

More recently, he appeared in "Randy's Canvas" (2018).

Alyson Stoner is still dancing and acting. She's also made a name for herself online.
composite image of alison stoner in cheaper by the dozen and the actor on a red carpet today
"Cheaper by the Dozen" came out in 2003.

Disney; Kevin Winter/Getty Images

Child dance star Alyson Stoner played Sarah, Baker kid number five.

They started their career as a dancer for Missy Elliott before starring in "Cheaper by the Dozen." After the film, Stoner continued to act in film and on television.

They worked on shows like the Disney Channel's "Mike's Super Short Show" from 2002 to 2007, "The Suite Life of Zack and Cody" from 2005 to 2007, and "Phineas and Ferb" from 2007 to 2015.

The actor also starred in both the "Camp Rock" and "Step Up" film franchises.Β 

They continued her dance career by performing with artists like Eminem, Kumbia Kings, Outkast, and Will Smith. Recently, they danced during Missy Elliot's 2019 MTV Video Music Awards performance.Β 

Stoner has dabbled with music over the years, recently releasing their own song, "Stripped Bare."Β 

Stoner is also active on social media, with 1.2 million followers on Instagram and over 660,000 YouTube subscribers. They use those platforms to promote self-love and share their own dance videos.Β 

In recent years, the star has continued voicing Isabella in the "Phineas and Ferb" franchise.Β 

Jacob Smith played Jake Baker, but he is no longer is active in the entertainment industry.
jacob baker
Jacob Smith played Jake Baker.

20th Century Fox; jonathanjacob77/Instagram

Jacob Smith played Baker kid number six, Jake.

Before the film, Smith playedΒ Owen Salinger on Fox's "Party of Five" from 1998 to 2000.Β 

Following his role in "Cheaper by the Dozen," Smith only appeared in a handful of projects, including "Troy" (2004) and "Cheaper by the Dozen 2" (2005).

He has had a couple of guest appearances on TV shows like "Miracles" and "Without a Trace." According to IMDb, he hasn't acted in anything since 2006.

Morgan York played Kim Baker.
morgan york cheaper by the dozen
Morgan York is trying to get published as a YA author.

20th Century Fox; morganyorkwrites/Instagram

Morgan York starred in "Cheaper by the Dozen" as Kim, Baker kid number seven.

After "Cheaper by the Dozen," York starred in "The Pacifier" (2005) and "Cheaper by the Dozen 2" (2005).

Her last credited acting role was as Sarah on the Disney Channel's "Hannah Montana" from 2006 to 2010.

In 2020, York posted a life update on Instagram that said she's currently working as an editor in the book-publishing industry. She's also trying to get several of her own books published.

"The publishing world is complicated, so I'm not published or agented yet, but not for lack of trying. So far I've written six YA fantasy books," she wrote in the caption.

In more recent years, she's posted samples of her work on her blog.

Liliana Mumy continued to act in films and on television after playing Jessica Baker.
liliana mumy cheaper by the dozen
Liliana Mumy played Jessica Baker.

20th Century Fox; Charley Gallay/Getty Images for Nickelodeon

Liliana Mumy starred as Kim's twin sister Jessica, Baker kid number eight.

Prior to starring in "Cheaper by the Dozen," Mumy starred in "The Santa Clause 2" (2002).

After the film, Mumy went on to appear in "Cheaper by the Dozen 2" as well as "The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause" (2006).

The bulk of Mumy's work since "Cheaper by the Dozen" has been in voice acting for animated films, shorts, and series.

She's voiced roles in "Mulan II" (2004), the "Lilo and Stitch" shows and films, Disney's "Sofia the First" from 2015 to 2018, Nicktoons' "Bravest Warriors" from 2012 to 2018.

In recent years, the actor has been voicing Leni in Nickelodeon's "The Loud House" franchise.

Forrest Landis played Mark Baker, but he's no longer in the spotlight.
mark baker
Forrest Landis played Mark Baker.

20th Century Fox; itsfordog/Instagram

Forrest Landis starred as Mark, Baker kid number nine, in "Cheaper by the Dozen." This was his first professional acting role.

Outside the "Cheaper by the Dozen" films, Landis' most well-known role is from the 2005 film "Flightplan." He also appeared on a handful of television shows including NBC's "ER," NBC's "LAX," and Showtime's "Weeds."

Per IMDb, his last acting credit was in the 2008 film "Spy School."

Blake Woodruff played Mike Baker, but the actor has laid low in the entertainment industry over the past few years.
mike baker
Blake Woodruff played Mike Baker.

20th Century Fox; _blakewoodruff_/Instagram

Blake Woodruff appeared as Mike, Baker kid number 10.

After "Cheaper by the Dozen," Woodruff also played Noah Newman on "The Young and the Restless," the same role that his "Cheaper by the Dozen" costar, Schmidt, took over in 2012.

His other film credits include "Cheaper by the Dozen 2," "Whisper" (2007), and "Victor Crowley" (2017).Β 

Brent and Shane Kinsman played identical twins Nigel and Kyle Baker, but neither of them have acted in years.
baker twins
Brent and Shane Kinsman played Nigel and Kyle Baker.

20th Century Fox; brentkinsman7/Instagram

Brent and Shane Kinsman rounded out the Baker's dozen as identical twins Nigel and Kyle.

After the "Cheaper by the Dozen" films, the brothers appeared in the film "Knocked Up" (2007) and played twins on ABC's "Desperate Housewives" from 2004 to 2011.Β 

Neither Kinsman has acted since 2011, and both appear to have left the entertainment industry.Β 

This story was originally published on April 25, 2020, and most recently updated on January 8, 2025.Β 

Read More:

Read the original article on Business Insider

THEN AND NOW: The cast of 'Modern Family' 16 years later

8 January 2025 at 06:34
ariel winters modern family then and now
Ariel Winters started on "Modern Family" when she was a child.

Getty/Frederick M Brown/Amanda Edwards

  • ABC's "Modern Family" aired in 2009 and ended in April 2020 after 11 seasons.
  • Actors Ty Burrell and SofΓ­a Vergara made names for themselves in the US because of "Modern Family."
  • Many of the stars haven't acted much since "Modern Family" ended.

ABC's "Modern Family" first aired in 2009.

The popular family sitcom ended in April 2020 after 250 episodes and 11 seasons.

Here's what the cast has been up to in the 16 years since "Modern Family" made its debut.

Ty Burrell made audiences laugh as Phil Dunphy.
ty burrell
Ty Burrell's character's goofy persona made him a fan favorite.

Getty/Jon M. Heller

Burrell played the dad-est dad of all the dads, Phil Dunphy, on the show. His character became known for his goofy and lovable humor.

Prior to this role, Burrell had appeared in a few movies and shows.

Burrell's sense of humor is now his trademark.
Ty Burrell in 2021
Ty Burrell is still cracking jokes.

Araya Doheny/Getty Images

If anything, his humor became a signature of both Dunphy and Burrell and has carried over into his side projects.

Famously, Burrell voiced Bailey in "Finding Dory" (2016), and he was also in a series of humorous Gain detergent commercials that almost felt like a subplot of a "Modern Family" episode.

Recently, he voiced a character on Fox's comedy "Duncanville." The actor is currently set to star in "Tightrope!" β€” a Roku comedy executive produced by Bryan Cranston.

Julie Bowen found her niche as Claire Dunphy.
julie bowen
Julie Bowen found fame as this now-iconic character.

Getty/Jason Meritt

Before starring as Claire Dunphy, Bowen made the rounds on a variety of television series, including "ER," "Weeds," and "Ed."

She hadn't landed the job that would be her claim to fame β€” until "Modern Family" aired.

Bowen is still in the industry.
Julie Bowen in 2024
Julie Bowen has taken on multiple roles since "Modern Family."

Monica Schipper/Getty Images

Since "Modern Family" debuted, she's won two Emmy awards for outstanding supporting actress in a comedy series.

In 2021, she wrapped up voice work on Disney's animated "DuckTales" series and appeared in "Curb Your Enthusiasm" and the movie "Mixtape."

In 2024, she was in the Peacock series "Hysteria!"

Ariel Winter played the uber-intelligent Alex Dunphy.
Ariel Winter
Ariel Winter had a few voice-acting roles while appearing on "Modern Family."

Getty/Frederick M Brown

Winter started on the show as middle child and girl genius Alex Dunphy when she was 11 years old.

As she made her way through her teen years as the practical perfectionist on "Modern Family," she lent herself to other big-name shows as a voice actor, like "Phineas and Ferb" and "Sofia the First."

Winter was pursuing her college degree but has paused her studies.
Ariel Winter
Ariel Winter started on "Modern Family" as a kid.

Christine Bartolucci/Variety via Getty Images

Winter began pursuing her college degree at UCLA in fall of 2017, according to Entertainment Tonight.

She paused her studies after a few months, but did say, "I think education's really important. I love being there. I love learning," Winter said. "I will continue to keep learning."

She's been in a few movies since "Modern Family," including "The Quarry" and "Bully."

In recent years, she's spoken about her choice to leave Los Angeles β€” and, in 2022, she purchased a mansion in Tennessee.

Sarah Hyland played the rebellious oldest Dunphy.
Sarah Hyland
Sarah Hyland's character made a lot of interesting choices.

Getty/Frazer Harrison

Hyland played the troublemaking Haley Dunphy, who had a few mishaps throughout the series, including an underage-drinking arrest.

Before landing her part on "Modern Family," the actor appeared in a number of small roles in TV shows, like "Law & Order," and TV movies, including "Annie" (1999).

Hyland has continued performing.
Sarah Hyland in 2024
Sarah Hyland has done some work in the music industry.

Michael Buckner/Variety via Getty Images

In the past few years, Hyland has created viral videos with Boyce Avenue on YouTube, covering popular songs like "Closer" by The Chainsmokers and "Don't Wanna Know" by Maroon 5.

She also performed the catchy song "Don't Think Twice, It's Alright" on the television remake of "Dirty Dancing" in 2017.

According to her Instagram bio, she's also the cofounder of the vitamin-infused chocolate brand Sourse.

Nolan Gould starred as Luke.
Nolan Gould
Nolan Gould played the youngest Dunphy kid.

Getty/Jason Meritt

Like Winter and Rico Rodriguez, Gould started on the show at just 11 years old.

As the youngest child in the Dunphy family, Luke started out as a rambunctious and dim-witted kid who was often the center of mischievous antics.

As the series has progressed, however, he's shed his playful ways and the writers have progressively leaned into Luke's lack of intelligence, much like his older sister, Haley.

Gould has shown off his academic chops.
Nolan Gould in 2024
Nolan Gould hasn't acted much since "Modern Family."

Christine Bartolucci/Variety via Getty Images

Even though his "Modern Family" character is famously not bright, the actor is actually very intelligent.

Gould graduated with a GED at just 13 and told Ellen Degeneres in 2013 that his IQ was 150. He's also a member of high-IQ society Mensa International.

He has acted in a handful of projects since "Modern Family" wrapped β€” recently, he was on an episode of "Grey's Anatomy" and in a few films, including Camp (2023) and "The Nana Project" (2023)

Ed O'Neill owned his role as everyone's favorite (and brutally honest) patriarch.
ed o'neill
Ed O'Neill played the patriarch of the families.

Getty/Frazer Harrison

As the patriarch of the Dunphy-Pritchett clan, O'Neill's character, Jay Pritchett, was problematic at worst and simply ignorant at best during the beginning of the series.

Over the course of the show, Jay became more accepting of the other characters β€” especially those most different from him.

Prior to this role, the actor appeared in many films but was perhaps most known for playing Al on the series "Married ... With Children" for over a decade.

O'Neill's performance is sure to remain iconic.
Ed O'Neill in 2024
Ed O'Neill is an actor.

Phillip Faraone/WireImage

O'Neill has taken on just a few roles since "Modern Family" ended, including one on FX's "Clipped."

SofΓ­a Vergara became memorable as Gloria on the show.
Sofia Vergara
"Modern Family" helped SofΓ­a Vergara rise to fame in the US.

Getty/Evan Agostini

Before "Modern Family," Colombian-American actor Vergara had small roles in various American television shows and movies and even hosted two shows on UnivisiΓ³n in the late 1990s.

Once she owned the role of Gloria Delgado-Pritchett, she became a household name in the United States.

The show helped make Vergara a household name in the US.
Sofia Vergara in 2025
SofΓ­a Vergara has even been the face of CoverGirl.

Earl Gibson III/GG2025/Penske Media via Getty Images

Since then, she's been the face of CoverGirl, been nominated for both Emmys and Golden Globes, and has starred in successful movies like "Hot Pursuit" and "Chef."

She spent years on Forbes' list of the highest-paid television actresses in America. She's also been a judge on "America's Got Talent" and host on "Extra."

In 2024, she lent her voice to "Despicable Me 4" and starred in the Netflix limited series "Griselda."

Rico Rodriguez played Manny Delgado, a kid wise beyond his years.
Rico Rodriguez
Rico Rodriguez embraced Manny's wit and charm.

Getty/Angela Weiss

When 11-year-old Rodriguez was introduced as the unbelievably mature Manny Delgado at the start of the show, his wisdom and class hilariously mismatched the young kid on the screen.

Rodriguez hasn't done much acting since.
On Right: Rico Rodriguez in 2022
Rico Rodriguez played Manny on "Modern Family."

Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images

Since then, Rodriguez has had small roles in several small projects over the years but hasn't acted in a major production since "Modern Family."

Before starring in "Modern Family," Jesse Tyler Ferguson was on Broadway.
jesse tyler ferguson
"Modern Family" was one of Jesse Tyler Ferguson's first big acting roles.

AP Photo/Dan Steinberg

Before he played lawyer Mitchell Pritchett on "Modern Family," the actor had a successful theater career, originating the role of Leaf Coneybear in "The 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee."

Ferguson has returned to his theatrical roots.
Jesse Tyler Ferguson in 2024
Jesse Tyler Ferguson has been on Broadway.

Maya Dehlin Spach/FilmMagic

Ferguson and his character Mitchell Pritchett share the same love of theatre and film.

In years since the show first aired, he's taken on off-Broadway roles in "The Tempest" and "Spamalot" and again originated a Broadway role as Sam in "Fully Committed" in 2016.

He also appeared in Taylor Swift's music video for "You Need to Calm Down."

Recently, he released a cookbook with recipe developer Julie Tanous and was in a Broadway revival of "Take Me Out," which opened in 2022.

In 2023 he appeared in the movie "Cocaine Bear."

Eric Stonestreet became the star of the show as Mitchell.
Eric Stonestreet
Eric Stonestreet's character is known for being bubbly.

Getty/Alberto E. Rodriguez

The chronically optimistic, bubbly, and caring Cameron Tucker on "Modern Family" brought Stonestreet from guest-star status to recognizable TV star.

Before he landed the role, Stonestreet was most recognizable as Ronnie Litre on "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation" and as a hotel desk clerk in "Almost Famous."

He has two Emmy awards for his role on the show.
Eric Stonestreet in 2022
Eric Stonestreet was a star on "Modern Family."

Bruce Glikas/WireImage

Stonestreet won two Emmys for his role in "Modern Family."

He's also done voice work for a few shows, including "You're Not a Monster" and "Sofia the First."

In recent years, he appeared in the comedy "American Auto."

Aubrey Anderson-Emmons started the show very young.
Aubrey Anderson-Emmons
Aubrey Anderson-Emmons was a little kid when "Modern Family" began.

Getty/Alberto E. Rodriguez

Anderson-Emmons played Lily Tucker-Pritchett, who Cam and Mitchell adopted in season one of the show.

Although twins Jaden and Ella Hiller originally played Lily, Anderson-Emmons took over the role when she was 4 years old.

Anderson-Emmons hasn't done much acting since.
Aubrey Anderson-Emmons in 2024
Aubrey Anderson-Emmons has built herself quite a following on social media.

Paul Archuleta/Getty Images

She has not acted in major projects since the show wrapped in 2020.

She's built up a fairly large following on TikTok and is fairly active on social media.

Read the original article on Business Insider

Trump asks US Supreme Court to block Friday's hush-money sentencing

8 January 2025 at 06:17
Donald Trump
Trump recently signaled openness to raising the federal minimum wage, but that's likely to hit GOP resistance.

Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images

  • President-elect Trump has asked the US Supreme Court to block Friday's hush-money sentencing in NY.
  • Wednesday's request seeks "to prevent grave injustice and harm to the presidency."
  • The court asked for a response by Thursday from Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg.

Lawyers for Donald Trump have asked the US Supreme Court to block the president-elect's Manhattan hush-money sentencing, currently set for Friday.

Justice Sonia Sotomayor is assigned to handle emergency applications from New York for the court.

The 525-page application filed by Trump on Wednesday morning refers to presidential immunity more than 300 times. Sotomayor, nominated by President Barack Obama in 2009, issued a scathing dissent of the high court's July 1 opinion granting presidents broad immunity from prosecution.

Trump's 11th-hour bid to avoid sentencing comes one day after a New York appellate judge nixed a similar stay, rejecting arguments by a defense lawyer that presidential immunity from prosecution extends to presidents-elect. Defense lawyers on Wednesday also filed an application with the state's highest appellate court seeking to block Trump's sentencing.

The nation's highest court has asked prosecutors with the office of Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg to file response papers by 10 a.m. Thursday. A spokesperson for Bragg declined comment, saying, "We will respond in court papers."

Trump is seeking "to correct the unjust actions by New York courts and stop the unlawful sentencing in the Manhattan D.A.'s Witch Hunt," Trump spokesman Steven Cheung said. "The Supreme Court's historic decision on Immunity, the Constitution, and established legal precedent mandate that this meritless hoax be immediately dismissed."

This is a breaking story; please check back for developments.

Read the original article on Business Insider

Trump asks Supreme Court to block hush money sentencing

8 January 2025 at 05:58

President-elect Trump is asking the Supreme Court to halt Friday's sentencing in his New York hush money case, according to a new court filing.

Why it matters: If the high court intervenes, it could hand Trump another legal win by delaying the hearing or blocking the lower court from proceeding with levying a punishment for his historic felony conviction.


Catch up quick: Trump's legal team made the request to the Supreme Court after Judge Juan Merchan denied his latest bid to halt his sentencing. An appeals judge rejected his request to dismiss his conviction, as well.

  • Merchan has said he does not intend to sentence Trump to jail time β€” but the president-elect's legal team is demanding to have his sentencing stopped altogether.
  • Trump is scheduled to be sentenced just days before his presidential inauguration.

Editor's note: This is a breaking news story. Check back for updates.

California wildfires driven by rare combination of climate change factors

8 January 2025 at 05:49

At least three destructive, fast-moving wildfires were burning in the Los Angeles metro area early Wednesday.

  • Tens of thousands of people evacuated, some having run on foot to flee oncoming flames.

The big picture: The wildfires are the result of an unheard-of combination of factors at this time of year β€” the worst high wind event in Southern California since 2011, plus some of the driest conditions on record for early January.

  • Downtown LA has received just 0.16 inches of rain since May 6 of last year, making it the second-driest period on record for May 6 to Dec 31, according to the National Weather Service.
  • January is typically during the region's wet season.
  • Bone-dry conditions in Southern California contrast with the northern parts of the state, where atmospheric rivers have squelched fire risks.
  • Even worse, the region had an unusually hot summer that dried out vegetation even further.

Threat level: Warnings for "particularly dangerous situation" red flag fire weather conditions and "extremely critical" risk continue across Southern California through late Wednesday as at least four significant fires burn in the LA metro area.

  • Whipped by powerful Santa Ana winds gusting up to 99 mph, particularly in hilly terrain, the fires forced chaotic evacuations in parts of the area, particularly related to the Palisades Fire.
  • High winds are affecting the wildfires, with gusts of 50 to 70 mph and higher in some lower elevations. Burbank Airport, for example, gusted to 84 mph.
  • Near the Palisades Fire, winds have reached 98 mph, with 90 mph winds not far from the Eaton Fire near Altadena, Calif.
  • UCLA climate scientist Daniel Swain referred to the high winds as an "atmospheric blow dryer" for its effects on trees and other vegetation.

Context: Climate change is intensifying hydroclimate extremes, both wet and dry, including weather whiplash events where California see-saws between the two.

  • With dry conditions lasting later into the fall, that means Southern California is more vulnerable to dry high wind events, Swain noted.
  • "Climate change is increasing the overlap between extremely dry vegetation conditions later in the season and the occurrence of these wind events," he said in an online briefing.

What they're saying: Alex Hall, also with UCLA, said the hydroclimate situation plus the strong winds have suddenly created a precarious situation.

  • "Southern California has experienced a particularly hot summer, followed by almost no precipitation during what is normally our wet season," he said.
  • "And all of this comes on the heels of two very rainy years, which means there is plenty of fuel for potential wildfires."

What's next: More wind-driven wildfires may yet erupt before this event is over.

Go deeper:

Wind-driven fires in Los Angeles area engulf homes, force evacuations

Biden still thinks he would have beaten Trump

8 January 2025 at 05:48

President Biden insisted in a new interview out Wednesday that he could have beaten President-elect Trump in the 2024 election, even as he admitted he was unsure that he had the stamina for another term.

Why it matters: Since Democrats' defeat, Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris' teams have reportedly blamed each other for the outcome.


Reality check: Biden's assessment that he could have beaten Trump would have required overcoming low approval ratings, a disastrous debate performance that raised questions about his mental fitness, and voters' persistently bleak views of the economy.

  • Many Democrats have expressed anger at Biden's decision to seek reelection initially despite polls showing voters across the political spectrum expressing concerns about his age.

What he's saying: "It's presumptuous to say that, but I think yes," Biden told USA Today when asked if he believed he could have won.

  • Biden added that his belief was based on polling he had seen.
  • However, Biden was more circumspect when asked if he had the vigor to serve another four years in office, admitting: "I don't know."
  • "Who the hell knows? So far, so good. But who knows what I'm going to be when I'm 86 years old?" the president added in the interview, which was conducted Sunday.

Flashback: Biden has been defiant about his decision to drop out of the race.

Zoom out: Biden covered a wide range of topics in his USA Today interview, including the fact that he is still considering whether to issue preemptive pardons for figures like former Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.) and former health adviser Anthony Fauci, whom could be targeted by Trump.

  • Biden said the decision would come down to who Trump appoints to key administration roles, but noted that he had urged Trump during their Oval Office meeting to not "go back and try to settle scores."
  • Trump, he added, had complimented some of the Biden administration's economic achievements. "He thought I was leaving with a good record," Biden said.

Go deeper: Timeline: Key moments that led to Biden's historic withdrawal

Anti-DEI shareholder proposals have tripled since 2020

8 January 2025 at 04:00
Data: Esgauge, Conference Board. Note: Includes proposals for employer information report disclosures and diversity in workplace, board and executive. Chart: Axios Visuals

Anti-DEI shareholder proposals have surged over the past few years.

Why it matters: These measures are a somewhat obscure but important piece of the pushback against corporate diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts β€”Β programs meant to broaden a company's hiring pool of candidates and make employees from different backgrounds feel more welcome.


The big picture: Corporate diversity efforts are quickly falling out of fashion, especially as President-elect Trump heads back to the White House.

  • Companies, like Meta, that used to tout their diversity efforts are now rapidly running away from them.

Zoom in: Anti-DEI proposals typically ask public firms to scrutinize their DEI policies to see if they pose legal, financial or reputation risks.

  • There were 13 anti-DEI proposals at Russell 3000 firms last year, according to research provided to Axios by yhe Conference Board.
  • The number of anti-DEI proposals is still a fraction of the pro-DEI proposals, but has more than tripled since 2020.
  • The companies targeted were biggies like Alphabet, Apple, Coca-Cola, Starbucks and Boeing, which dismantled its DEI department last year.

Zoom out: Critics say DEI pushes companies to hire less-qualified candidates. They blame the three-letter acronym for all kinds of things (plane crashes, domestic terrorism, infrastructure collapse).

  • Their opposition got a huge boost in 2023, after the Supreme Court overturned affirmative action at the university level.
  • After the ruling came down, scrutiny of company programs grew, and some groups began filing lawsuits against corporations for, effectively, discriminating against white people in hiring.
  • Of 70 senior executives recently surveyed by the Conference Board, 69% said the ruling negatively affected their DEI efforts.

State of play: Over the holidays, Costco grabbed headlines when it put out a robust defense of its DEI efforts,Β in response to one of these proposals from a conservative think tank called the National Center for Public Policy Research.

  • "Our efforts at diversity, equity and inclusion remind and reinforce with everyone at our Company the importance of creating opportunities for all," Costco's board of directors wrote.
  • "We believe that these efforts enhance our capacity to attract and retain employees who will help our business succeed."

The other side: Stefan Padfield, executive director of the Free Enterprise Project, part of the group that filed the Costco proposal, claimed the company's DEI program institutionalizes racism.

  • He called Costco's diversity efforts "neo-racism."

Where it stands: These proposals almost always get voted down, but the point isn't to win votes, says Andrew Jones, senior researcher at the Conference Board.

  • The idea is to "bring scrutiny to DEI and amplify broader opposition," he says. Those efforts appear to be working.
  • Earlier this week, McDonald's was the latest major company to announce it was scaling back its DEI efforts.

I paid over $2,000 for a first-class flight on Alaska Airlines. Unfortunately, it wasn't much better than economy.

8 January 2025 at 06:04
first class on alaksa airlines
Even the nicest plane I flew on during my round-trip Alaska Airlines trip wasn't worth it.

Jamie Davis Smith

  • I usually fly economy, but I splurged on a first-class Alaska Airlines ticket to Hawaii.
  • The round-trip flight cost over $2,000, but the amenities really let me down.
  • It definitely wasn't worth it for me β€” I hope I actually get a first-class experience someday.

I travel often and have only flown economy. However, faced with long-haul flights from the East Coast of the US to Hawaii, I decided to spring for first-class tickets.

I was traveling without my family, so I thought it might be my only chance to see what it's like at the front of the plane without shelling out for multiple tickets.

After looking at different itineraries, I picked a round-trip flight on Alaska Airlines that cost over $2,000. I'd never flown with the airline before, but I excitedly hit buy on the nonrefundable first-class tickets.

I thought the luxury experience would be worth the investment. Instead, in my opinion, what I got wasn't much better than economy.

Unfortunately, I should've done my research.
jamie posing in front of an alaska airlines plane
I was bummed that I wouldn't be able to use any lounges.

Jamie Davis Smith

My first incorrect assumption what that my first-class ticket would automatically get me access to an airport lounge. I thought this would be especially nice since my itinerary included a layover in each direction.

Unfortunately, there weren't Alaska lounges at any of the four airports I flew through during my trip, and you have to be an Alaska Lounge+ member to access any of the airline's partner lounges.

To make things worse, I assumed the first-class seats would be as nice as those I've seen on other airlines. My heart sank when I learned that Alaska Airlines' first-class seats don't recline much and don't have seat-back screens.

I'd been looking forward to a deep recline to help me sleep and zone out while watching movies and catching up on emails throughout my 18-hour travel day.

At this point, I wondered if it would've been better to fly economy on a different airline, but it was too late to change my ticket.

Still, I tried to look on the bright side.
first class seat on an alaska airlines plane
Although they didn't recline, the seats were pretty comfortable.

Jamie Davis Smith

When I boarded my first flight, I was cautiously optimistic.

I was glad to see my first-class chair was noticeably bigger than a typical economy seat. Plus, it had plenty of padding to make it more comfortable.

Unfortunately, the seats reclined even less than I expected. I also didn't get a pillow or an amenities kit, just a blanket, which is what I'm used to on longer economy flights on other airlines.

Unfortunately, things only got more boring from there.
back of a first-class seat on alaska airlines
There wasn't even anywhere for me to hang my tablet to watch movies.

Jamie Davis Smith

I packed a tablet with a big screen so I could watch movies and TV shows through Alaska's app, which seemed to have a pretty good selection. However, there wasn't a tablet holder on the seatback for either of my flights there.

Because I had only one tray table, I had to choose between watching movies or using my computer to catch up on emails. Given the limited space, things got even tighter when the food came out.

I also had to pay an extra $32 ($8 on each leg of my flight) for WiFi.

I subsisted on snack boxes throughout the long flights there.
mediterranean tapas box with yogurt, fruit, and bread on an airplane
I didn't get an entrΓ©e on either of my first two flights.

Jamie Davis Smith

When it was time to eat, I was hoping for a hot meal. I left my house at 4 a.m. without breakfast and was starving.

I waited to see what would be on my tray, only to discover that because I had not selected a meal in advance (which I didn't know was a thing), I was stuck with a snack box and a couple of mediocre sides.

I got the same snack box (sans entrΓ©e) on my second flight, leaving me hangry when I landed.

As I deplaned, I longingly thought about the delicious food I had on a recent Turkish Airlines flight in economy.

The return flight was slightly better but still far from luxurious.
tablet on the back of an airplane seat
I finally had somewhere to put my tablet on my first flight home.

Jamie Davis Smith

When it came time to board my first flight home, I was happy to see that the plane was nicer.

This time, I had a tablet holder on the back of my seat so I could watch from a comfortable distance and save some tray space.

The seats didn't recline more than the other plane, but they did have footrests. My flight left at 11 p.m., and I was so tired that I dozed off easily.

Unfortunately, I was soon disappointed again when I boarded my connecting flight. The plane was an older model without a tablet holder.

I had at least preordered a meal for this leg, which was better than the snack box.

I'm looking forward to having a better first-class experience someday.
jamie on an alaska airlines flight in first class
I won't be flying first class on Alaska Airlines again.

Jamie Davis Smith

I can't totally blame Alaska for my underwhelming first-class experience.

If I had done some research before booking, it would've been much clearer that the airline is known for its no-frills planes. However, it still felt like I was paying first-class prices, so I think some disappointment is appropriate.

I won't be flying first class on Alaska again, but I hope to have a real, luxurious experience on another airline in the future.

Alaska Airlines did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Read the original article on Business Insider

TikTok breaks down 3 big trends that brands should watch for in 2025

8 January 2025 at 06:01
TikTok influencer Jools Lebron sparked the "very mindful, very demure" trend, with many brands jumping on the bandwagon.
TikTok influencer Jools Lebron sparked the "very mindful, very demure" trend, with many brands jumping on the bandwagon.

The Hapa Blonde/GC Images

  • TikTok published its global "What's Next" trends report for marketing creatives on Wednesday.
  • It advised marketers to try out AI tech and hire a wider set of creators to reach niche communities.
  • TikTok also dove into how marketers should change how they talk about life stages with consumers.

TikTok shared on Wednesday the culture and technology trends it thinks will shape the creative side of marketing in the coming year.

The company is encouraging marketers to lean into artificial intelligence as a creative tool, hire a wider set of influencers to reach niche communities, and adjust how they speak to a new crop of consumers who view life stages differently than their predecessors. The trends are laid out in TikTok's 2025 "What's Next" report.

Business Insider spoke to Cassie Taylor, TikTok's global creative solutions and trends lead, and several marketing partners who had early access to the report about where TikTok marketing is heading next.

TikTok's deep dive into global trends did not address the elephant in the room: its app could be pulled from US app stores as early as January 19, as mandated by a divest-or-ban law. If that does happen, TikTok would still operate in other markets. Brands would likely shift their US attention to other short-video products, such as Instagram reels or YouTube shorts. Taylor declined to comment on a potential ban.

Here are BI's key takeaways from the 36-page report:

1. AI is a marketer's friend, not a foe (hopefully)

Last year, TikTok announced a bunch of new generative-AI tools for marketers inside a creative suite called Symphony. The product allows creatives to generate ad scripts and trend summaries and translate and dub videos into new languages, among other offerings. One of Symphony's more striking features helps brands use AI-generated avatars built from the likenesses of influencers or paid actors. That tool remains in limited use, Taylor said.

Some influencers and marketers have expressed nervousness about the potential for generative AI to take away jobs. TikTok acknowledged that uncertainty in its report. Still, the company wrote that marketers can gain a "creative edge" if they embrace AI.

"Even a few years ago when we started to see different apps come out with AI, it was a little bit of, 'Do we like this? Do we not like this?' Should we be worried about it?'" Taylor said. "It's now been around just enough time from a trend perspective for people to really see its value."

Bridget Jewell, an executive creative director at Dentsu Creative who sits on a creative partner council for TikTok, said the agency uses TikTok's Symphony suite to come up with video ideas and identify trending sounds.

"It's the tool that allows us to think about things differently," Jewell said.

2. Work with influencers to connect with niche communities

Marketers go back and forth on whether to hire celebrities and mega influencers for reach or to work with creators who have more targeted audiences. TikTok is betting the latter will take off in 2025.

"As communities seek trusted voices, more people are becoming creators, from quiet reviewers to quirky characters," the company wrote in its report. "It's not about the loudest voice, but increasing the number of creators, sometimes even by 50% β€” to drive impact at scale."

Working with creators who know how to speak to a specific community can help a brand build trust, Taylor said.

"I'm not saying there isn't a time and place for a mass message," Taylor said. "What I'm saying is people will build a relationship with you on TikTok if you're talking to them like the community."

Jamie Gersch, chief marketing officer of the fashion brand Rothy's, told BI the company looks to work on campaigns with influencers who are already engaging with its products on social media.

"The in-house team is living and breathing on the platform and finding people that are naturally talking about us and love us," Gersch said.

3. Brands should treat life stages differently for modern consumers

Marketers should rethink the way they talk about traditional life milestones like buying a home when they speak to TikTok users.

These milestones can induce "FOMO and anxiety about falling behind," the company wrote. It pointed to users on the app who have shared their struggles with student debt and homeownership.

Instead of posting videos that value classic life stages, brands could lean into other goals TikTok users have shown they care about, like improving mental health or going on a hike.

"People are getting married later. People are moving abroad as a milestone. People are having different career goals," Taylor said.

Read the original article on Business Insider

Brooke Shields says she's happier than ever with herself at 59. Here are 3 lessons she's learned about aging well.

8 January 2025 at 05:48
Brooke Shields in 1979 vs. 2023.
Brooke Shields in 1979 vs. 2023.

Images Press /Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty IMages

  • Brooke Shields, 59, has been in the limelight since she starred in the movie "Pretty Baby" at 11.
  • She told Real Simple society is obsessed with youth, but with age comes experience.
  • Here life lessons include not being afraid to age, having strong friendships, and loving yourself.

At 59, Brooke Shields doesn't like being called "aged."

"People imprint onto me what they remember from a certain era of my life, and they're attached to that," she told Real Simple.

But the actor and model, whose career started at age 11 when she appeared in the controversial 1978 movie "Pretty Baby," hopes that this will change with the release of her new book, "Brooke Shields Is Not Allowed to Get Old."

Shields said she is embracing aging, which feels "rebellious" because "our society has become so myopically focused on youth."

Brookes doesn't want people to "lose sight of the value that comes with age and experience and time," she said.

Here are three lessons she has learned in her 59 years.

Brooke Shields poses for a studio photo.
Brooke Shields in 1983.

CBS via Getty Images

Friends are important

Shields said that she wouldn't be alive today without her friends.

She sees spending time with friends as self-love. "I leave either knowing a bit more about myself or remembering something I liked about myself through them," she said.

Plus, "it's really important to have friends so it's not all on your partner," she said.

Friendships are important for our physical and mental well-being. Professor Rose Anne Kenny, a gerontologist at Trinity College Dublin and lead researcher on the The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing, thinks friendship is just as important as diet and exercise for longevity.

Love yourself

"It's kind of a clichΓ©, but God, you really have to learn early to love yourself," Shields said, adding: "There's just such freedom in finding all the ways you like yourself."

She said part of that is finding a sense of humor about yourself that isn't self-deprecating β€” which she used to be. But "after 30, 40 years, you start to believe your self-deprecation, and that's dangerous," she said.

Business Insider has previously reported on what it means to love yourself.

Brooke Shields, with Andre Agassi, Kenny "Babyface" Edmonds, Bruce Willis, Demi Moore and Elton John.
Brooke Shields, Andre Agassi, Kenny "Babyface" Edmonds, Bruce Willis, Demi Moore and Elton John in the '90s.

KMazur/WireImage

Don't fear aging

Shields wants her daughters, aged 21 and 18, not to be "terrified" of aging because "there's something to be said" about life at 59.

"I feel like more of a new person now than I've ever felt," she said, adding: "I'm a bit more in my own life and skin. I'm sitting with myself more. I don't bore myself." This is because she's no longer focused on age-related milestones, such as having children, she said.

Plus, she said she couldn't have launched her hair care business in her 20s, without the life experience she now has.

"I think a life experience is the biggest gift we can be granted," she said.

BI has previously reported on other people who started businesses in their 50s and older.

Read the original article on Business Insider

I compared the signature burgers at McDonald's and Burger King. The Whopper easily beat the Big Mac.

8 January 2025 at 05:42
big mac and whopper side by side
I preferred the Burger King Whopper over McDonald's Big Mac.

Erin McDowell/Business Insider

  • One could argue that fast-food chains are defined by their signature burgers.
  • I compared the Big Mac and the Whopper with cheese to find out which burger came out on top.
  • Burger King's Whopper impressed me with its flame-grilled patty and fresh toppings.

Practically every fast-food chain has a signature burger … and some are better than others.

I decided to compare the most famous burgers from the two biggest burger chains in the US: McDonald's and Burger King.

I tried the McDonald's Big Mac and the Burger King Whopper with cheese to determine which classic fast-food burger is best based on taste and value.

Every fast-food chain is striving for value in 2025, amid price hikes and a competitive market with other brands. Even casual dining establishments like Chili's and Applebee's are fighting to offer customers the best deals.

On Tuesday, McDonald's announced it would be introducing a new value meal on the heels of its highly popular $5 value combo, in which customers can order any full-price menu item and get an additional menu item β€” with choices ranging from a six-piece chicken nugget to a double cheeseburger β€” for $1.

Here's how the McDonald's Big Mac stacked up against the Burger King Whopper.

First, I tried the Big Mac from McDonald's.
mcdonalds big mac
The Big Mac came in a cardboard box.

Erin McDowell/Business Insider

The Big Mac, often considered the most iconic fast-food burger, has been a McDonald's menu staple since 1967. Created by Pittsburgh franchise owner Jim Delligatti, the original Big Mac featured a triple-decker burger and sold for just 45 cents.

It was launched nationwide in 1968 and soon became the chain's signature item.

The Big Mac is topped with cheese, shredded lettuce, and a signature sauce.
mcdonalds big mac
The burger came topped with lettuce, pickles, and Big Mac sauce.

Erin McDowell/Business Insider

The Big Mac consists of two 1.6-ounce beef patties, pickles, shredded lettuce, chopped onions, a slice of American cheese, and Mac sauce, all sandwiched between a sesame seed bun.

Similar to a club sandwich, a third bun is also placed in the middle of the sandwich.

It cost me $7.69, excluding tax, at my local McDonald's in Brooklyn, New York.

There was a generous serving of pickles and shredded lettuce on the burger.
mcdonalds big mac
The burger could have used a touch more sauce.

Erin McDowell/Business Insider

The Big Mac is unique in that the top beef patty doesn't have any cheese or sauce on it β€” all of that goodness is toward the bottom of the burger.

I thought that the lettuce overpowered the burger, and overpowered the cheese, meat, and sauce flavors. I was hoping for a tangier kick from ketchup and mustard, or just more Big Mac sauce.

The extra bun made the burger taste dry.
mcdonalds big mac
I thought the burger could have benefitted from removing the third bun.

Erin McDowell/Business Insider

The burger tasted noticeably dry, likely because the toppings were unevenly distributed, making it bottom-heavy. The cheese and Big Mac sauce were concentrated at the bottom, leaving the dry bun and patty to dominate the first bites with little flavor or moisture.

I liked the tanginess of the pickles and the sauce. I just wish their flavor was more prevalent.

While I recognize the Big Mac's iconic status on the McDonald's menu, it's far from my favorite. Next time, I'll stick with a Quarter Pounder.

Burger King's signature Whopper has been around for decades.
burger king whopper
The Whopper has been around since 1957.

Erin McDowell/Business Insider

Burger King's iconic Whopper has been a staple since 1957, debuting just four years after the chain's founding. Priced at 37 cents, it offered a larger, premium option compared to the chain's original 18-cent burger.

What sets the Whopper β€” and all Burger King burgers β€” apart is their flame-grilling, which gives them a unique smoky flavor.

The Whopper is a classic cheeseburger.
burger king whopper
Both burgers came served on a sesame seed bun.

Erin McDowell/Business Insider

A standard Whopper comes with a quarter-pound beef patty, pickles, onions, lettuce, tomato, ketchup, and mayonnaise on a sesame seed bun.

I opted to order mine with cheese for a closer comparison to the Big Mac. At my local Burger King in Brooklyn, it cost me $8.49, excluding tax, putting it at 80 cents more than the Big Mac I tried.

The burger was piled high with lettuce, tomato, and condiments.
burger king whopper
The burger came with pickles, onions, lettuce, tomato, ketchup, and mayonnaise.

Erin McDowell/Business Insider

From the start, it was clear this burger was going to be bursting with flavor. Thick layers of ketchup and mayonnaise oozed from the sides, while the oversize bun managed to hold everything together.

This burger stood out as my favorite for its taste and texture.
burger king whopper
This burger impressed me with its smoky flavor and size.

Erin McDowell/Business Insider

The lettuce, tomatoes, and onions were incredibly fresh, adding a satisfying crunch to the burger, and the cheese added a punch of rich flavor to each bite.

The patties had a smoky, savory flavor, giving the sandwich a just-grilled taste. I also appreciated the patty's shape β€” larger in diameter but flatter than other burgers β€” making it easier to eat.

All of the elements felt well-balanced, with not one single ingredient overpowering the others, like I felt happened with the shredded lettuce on the Big Mac.

Overall, I had to give the win to the Burger King Whopper.
big mac and whopper side by side
I preferred the Burger King Whopper over McDonald's Big Mac.

Erin McDowell/Business Insider

I much preferred the flavors of the Whopper with cheese and thought it was more balanced. It tasted like a classic cookout burger, and the flavor of every ingredient came through in each bite.

I also thought the Whopper was worth the slightly higher price tag. It was more flavorful and was a large-sized fast-food burger for under $10 β€” something that's becoming increasingly rare these days as prices rise.

Read the original article on Business Insider
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