Child stars, where do they go? It’s a question that often crosses our minds as we flip through channels, reminiscing about the beloved faces that graced our screens during our formative years. We watch them grow up right before our eyes, but what happens when the cameras stop rolling on their most iconic roles? Sometimes, they blossom into even bigger stars. Other times, their paths take fascinating, unexpected turns that leave us wondering, ‘Is that really them?’
Today, we’re diving deep into the life of an actor whose face might be familiar, but whose journey since his breakout role has been anything but predictable. We’re talking about David Faustino, the mischievous, quick-witted Bud Bundy from the unforgettable sitcom “Married…With Children.” For a decade, he was the youngest Bundy, constantly clashing with his older sister Kelly and becoming a household name.
But the years have rolled by, and the fresh-faced kid from the ’80s and ’90s has certainly grown up. You might even find him almost unrecognizable today! So, what exactly has David Faustino been up to since his days as Bud? Get ready, because we’re about to pull back the curtain on the transformations, the challenges, and the surprising ventures that have shaped the man behind one of TV’s most beloved characters.
1. **Embracing the ‘Bud Bundy’ Legacy: How David Faustino Navigates His Most Famous Role**For many actors, portraying a character as iconic as Bud Bundy can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it’s the role that shot them to fame, etching their face into the collective memory of millions. On the other, it can become an inescapable shadow, defining their career for decades to come. For David Faustino, the mischievous youngest child of Al and Peg Bundy, the legacy of Bud is something he’s learned to embrace, even as he’s ventured into new territory.
Faustino candidly shared his perspective on still being called “Bud” by fans, explaining to HipHopDX, “I don’t really care.” He continued, “It just means that people liked the character, and people still love the character.” This kind of genuine appreciation from the audience is a testament to the lasting impact of “Married…With Children,” and it’s clear that Faustino cherishes the connection he still has with those who grew up watching the show.
In fact, the show’s enduring popularity is so profound that Faustino’s very home has become a landmark for Hollywood star tours! Imagine living your everyday life with tour buses stopping outside, microphones blaring, pointing out your house. It’s a unique reality that Faustino had to get used to. He told The New York Times, “Every day, I have a tour bus that comes around my house and stops. You can hear them on their microphone.” His outlook on this constant spotlight is remarkably pragmatic: “If you don’t embrace it,” he wisely noted, “it’s going to destroy you.”
Despite the affection for his past role, Faustino has always had his sights set on what’s next. While Bud Bundy remains his most memorable character, he’s actively sought new acting challenges. He expressed his ambition to LA Weekly in 2007, stating, “I definitely want to do more acting work, no doubt about it.” He added, “I’m excited for that next great role. I don’t know what it will be or when it will be, but I’m definitely open to it.” This desire to keep evolving as an actor shows a commitment to his craft beyond the comfort of past success.
2. **The Near Miss: David Faustino Almost Didn’t Play Bud Bundy**It’s hard to imagine anyone else in the role of Bud Bundy, isn’t it? David Faustino brought a unique blend of sarcasm, wit, and budding (pun intended!) confidence to the character that felt tailor-made. Yet, in a shocking twist of fate, the iconic part almost went to an entirely different actor! Before landing the role that would change his life, Faustino was a working child actor with bit parts on well-known shows like “Little House on the Prairie,” “The Love Boat,” and “Family Ties.”
When the pilot for “Married…With Children” was being cast, Faustino auditioned, but the initial outcome wasn’t what you might expect. He recalled on an episode of “How I Got The Part” that after his first try-out, “I don’t even think I got a callback, actually.” Can you believe it? The producers initially looked in another direction, and another actor was chosen to bring Bud Bundy to life for the pilot episode.
However, destiny had other plans for David. The initial pilot didn’t quite hit the mark, leading the producers to re-evaluate and recast some roles. “It didn’t work out with them, lucky for me, thank God,” Faustino recounted, a moment that undoubtedly shifted the trajectory of his entire career. It was a second chance, a rare opportunity that his new agent seized upon, convincing him to audition once more for the role.
Faustino, with his signature humor, joked about his return to the audition room, saying, “My first performance was so memorable, that they didn’t remember me at all.” This time, however, everything clicked into place. David Faustino secured the part of Bud Bundy, a role he would inhabit for an incredible 259 episodes until the show’s final curtain call in 1997. It’s a compelling reminder that sometimes, the biggest breaks come after an initial setback.
3. **A Brush With The Law: David Faustino’s 2007 Arrest**Even for former child stars who have largely stayed out of the spotlight, personal struggles can sometimes spill into the public eye. In 2007, David Faustino found himself in an unfortunate situation that made headlines: he was arrested in Florida. The charges included marijuana possession, a misdemeanor, and disorderly intoxication. While not the most serious of offenses, such an incident can still cast a shadow over a public figure’s reputation.
Despite the potential legal ramifications, which for a misdemeanor could include up to a year in prison, Faustino and his legal team appeared to approach the situation with a calm demeanor. His lawyer, Michael Rodriguez, downplayed the severity of the charges to Fox News, stating, “It’s not the biggest charge in the world.” This perspective likely aimed to mitigate public concern and frame the incident as a minor lapse rather than a major scandal.
Faustino himself later reflected on the circumstances leading to the disorderly intoxication charge. He openly admitted to LA Weekly, “I took on an attitude that I never ever take on with cops.” He candidly explained the influence of alcohol on his judgment at the time, adding, “But when I was drinking, I thought I was Mr. Big Shot, and they put me in cuffs, and that was that.” This honest admission provided a humanizing insight into the event, acknowledging personal accountability.
After spending a night in jail, the charge of disorderly intoxication was ultimately dropped, a small victory for Faustino. The following year, The Associated Press reported that his legal troubles were officially behind him. Linda Pruitt, a spokeswoman for the State Attorney’s Office, confirmed his successful completion of the terms set forth: “He successfully completed the deferred prosecution agreement, which included a drug treatment program.” His attorney, Rodriguez, was quick to ensure the press understood that Faustino was not afforded special treatment due to his celebrity, emphasizing, “He did what was asked of him, and he fulfilled all of his conditions.” It was a challenging chapter, but one he navigated responsibly.
4. **The Million-Dollar Miss: Why the ‘Married… With Children’ Fortune Passed Him By**When you’re a central figure on a sitcom that ran for a decade and became a global phenomenon, one might assume a lifetime of financial security. After all, “Married…With Children” is one of the most iconic shows in television history, perpetually rerun and loved by new generations. So, it might come as a shock to learn that David Faustino, like his co-stars, didn’t exactly get to live off the show’s massive continued success.
Faustino acknowledged that during the show’s original run, the cast was handsomely compensated. “We all made really good money while we were doing it,” he admitted to Access, adding, “We made great weekly paychecks.” This is certainly what one would expect for a successful network sitcom. However, the modern expectation of actors continuing to earn residuals from syndication and reruns didn’t apply to the “Married…With Children” cast in the same way.
The surprising reason? Faustino explained the unfortunate reality: “We all got screwed over because Fox at the time was not a network; it was a cable network.” This technicality meant a crucial difference in their contracts, leading to the devastating outcome of receiving no residuals from the show’s subsequent broadcast and streaming. It’s a stark reminder of how evolving media landscapes can impact contractual agreements, especially for groundbreaking shows on fledgling networks.
Imagine starring in a show that, as Faustino revealed, “has made over a billion dollars, and we didn’t really get a piece of that.” It’s a staggering sum to have contributed to without seeing a share of the long-term profits. Despite this significant financial miss, Faustino isn’t in dire straits today, thanks to other ventures. Yet, he still yearns for the spotlight. He shared his mixed feelings with LA Weekly, pondering, “I mean, yeah, I’ve made some pretty decent investments, so I feel comfortable financially. But is that enough?” His answer was telling: “No, not really because, you know, I like the attention and the fame. That’s part of the whole package.”
5. **Love, Marriage, and Divorce: David Faustino’s Personal Life Milestones**Beyond the glitz of Hollywood and the enduring fame of Bud Bundy, David Faustino has also experienced the universal ups and downs of personal relationships. His journey into marriage began in a rather unique setting, meeting fellow actor Andrea Elmer at a Los Angeles spiritual center in 1999. It’s a detail that adds a fascinating layer to their origin story, far removed from typical celebrity encounters.
Their relationship blossomed, and by 2004, the couple took the plunge, tying the knot in a chapel in Las Vegas. Marriage, for many, is a significant milestone, a public declaration of love and commitment. However, like many marriages, theirs was not destined to last forever. Just three years after their Vegas nuptials, Faustino filed for divorce in February 2007.
The reason cited for the dissolution of their marriage was the classic “irreconcilable differences,” a common phrase in divorce proceedings that often masks a multitude of complexities. Interestingly, Faustino’s petition to the court also requested that he not be obligated to pay his ex-wife anything. While the specifics of their settlement were not widely publicized at the time, TMZ later posted divorce court documents indicating that Faustino and Elmer had “duly executed a Marital Settlement Agreement.”
Despite the end of their marriage, it appears that Faustino and Elmer managed to maintain a relatively amicable relationship, a rarity in celebrity divorces. Andrea even played herself in Faustino’s web series, “Star-ving,” though with a humorous, fictionalized twist. In the show, her character runs off with rapper Coolio. Faustino, ever the comedian, joked to Access, “Coolio is not screwing my ex-wife, but I’m sure she’s screwing somebody.” He couldn’t resist adding a playful jab: “Coolio is sneaky, though; he could’ve, and I don’t know about it.” It seems even post-divorce, a sense of humor prevailed.
6. **Stepping Behind the Camera: The Rise and Fall of His Web Series ‘Star-ving’**After years in front of the camera, David Faustino decided to take matters into his own hands, channeling his unique experiences as a former child star into a groundbreaking new project. In 2009, he launched “Star-ving,” a web series where he not only starred as a fictionalized version of himself but also co-created, co-wrote, and co-directed. It was a bold move, giving him creative control over his narrative in a way he hadn’t experienced before.
The premise of “Star-ving” was hilariously self-deprecating and directly addressed the struggles and perceptions surrounding former child actors. Each episode opened with Faustino’s narration, setting the tone: “My money’s gone, my mom’s a midget, and my wife left me for my neighbor Coolio.” This exaggerated portrayal of his life was designed to be both comedic and relatable, especially for those familiar with the often-unflattering realities of post-fame life.
The series was a treasure trove of celebrity guest appearances, blurring the lines between fiction and reality. Viewers were treated to cameos from the very rapper mentioned in his intro, Coolio, along with his former “Married…With Children” co-stars, Ed O’Neill and Katey Sagal, and even the infamous Ron Jeremy, among others. Corin Nemec, known from “Parker Lewis Can’t Lose,” was also a key creative partner, co-creating, co-writing, co-directing, and co-starring, adding another layer of meta-commentary on ’90s child stardom.
Faustino described the show’s unique tone to CBS News, explaining, “It’s a really exaggerated, over-the-top, volume turned up to eleven, sort of show about me and what I’m up to.” While undeniably fictionalized for comedic effect, it was rooted in his genuine experiences. “It’s based in reality, meaning it’s a slice of my life,” he stated, “but we take everything, and we just really exaggerate the s*** out of it.” This blend of truth and hyperbole resonated with many viewers.
Despite its innovative concept and critical recognition, “Star-ving” ultimately had a relatively short run, lasting only twelve episodes. However, its impact was undeniable. The series garnered a nomination for Audience Choice Best Show of the Year at the 2010 Streamy Awards, a significant achievement in the burgeoning world of web content. Faustino reflected on its reception to Access, saying, “People really, really love it.” He also acknowledged the expected backlash, adding, “And then there’s, of course, the people who are offended, but that’s to be expected.” It proved to be a memorable, albeit brief, chapter in his creative journey.
After years of navigating the unique landscape of post-sitcom stardom, David Faustino has continuously redefined what it means to be a former child star. From flexing his acting muscles in unexpected ways to discovering a profound passion for fatherhood and music, his journey is a testament to embracing change. Let’s delve further into the vibrant chapters of his life, beyond the Bundy couch, and uncover the diverse roles and passions that have truly shaped him. You might find him almost unrecognizable today, but his story is anything but!
7. **He’s Played Himself a Few Other Times, Too**While “Star-ving” gave David Faustino an incredible platform to explore a fictionalized version of his post-fame existence, it certainly wasn’t the only time he stepped into the role of… well, David Faustino! Our favorite former Bud Bundy has made multiple appearances playing himself, often with a hilarious wink and a nod to his iconic past. Perhaps most famously, he graced two episodes of the hit HBO series “Entourage,” and even reprised the role for the subsequent movie, showing off his comedic timing alongside Hollywood’s elite.
His self-referential roles didn’t stop there. Fans were delighted when he popped up on a 2013 episode of “Modern Family,” sharing the screen once again with his former TV dad, Ed O’Neill, in a truly full-circle moment. He also appeared on an episode of the crime drama “Bones,” where he found himself hilariously embroiled in a murder investigation. These roles allowed Faustino to playfully engage with his public persona, proving his ability to charm audiences both as a character and as himself.
Beyond playing himself, Faustino even dabbled in the world of reality television, joining “Celebrity Boot Camp” in 2001. This show put celebrities through the grueling paces of military training, offering a glimpse into a very different side of the actor. He definitely embraced the challenge, even if it meant a new look! Reflecting on the experience, he proudly shared with Entertainment Weekly, “Because I shaved my head, my hat — my Marine cover — looks really good.” He humorously added, “My pants were a little baggy, though,” showcasing his enduring good humor.
However, there are some lines Faustino simply won’t cross for the camera, no matter the offer. In a revealing moment during an interview with The New York Times, he candidly recounted turning down an appearance on “Celebrity Rehab.” His reason was refreshingly honest: he doesn’t consider himself an addict and wasn’t willing to compromise his personal boundaries for reality TV. “The money is decent,” he acknowledged, “but I don’t want to go on TV and spill my guts,” a powerful statement about maintaining integrity in the public eye.
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8. **If You Don’t Recognize His Face Anymore, You Still Might Know His Voice**Prepare to have your mind blown, because while David Faustino’s face might have transformed over the years, his voice has become incredibly recognizable in a whole new realm! “I’ve had a lot of success in voiceover,” he revealed on a podcast, beaming about his transition. He described it as a “second career” and “a great, great gift,” a true testament to finding new avenues for creative expression in Hollywood. It turns out, you might be hearing him more often than you think!
Faustino has mastered the art of working from home, operating from a professional studio that can connect him instantly to recording sessions anywhere in the world. It’s the kind of flexibility many actors dream of. While the anonymity of voice acting initially presented a challenge to his ego – missing the “flash and flair” of on-camera work – he quickly found a deeper appreciation for the craft. The absence of traditional spotlight eventually became a significant perk, offering a different kind of fulfillment.
Indeed, that shift in perspective solidified when he embraced fatherhood. The voiceover career granted him precious freedom, allowing him to dedicate more quality time to his growing family. It’s a rewarding balance for any working parent, especially in the demanding entertainment industry. He’s lent his distinctive voice to popular shows like “Winx Club” and “Dragons: Race to the Edge,” enchanting a whole new generation of fans.
Perhaps his most famous voice role came as Mako in “The Legend of Korra,” set in the beloved world of “Avatar the Last Airbender.” This role earned him a passionate fan base that continues to astound him. At Comic-Con 2014, Faustino expressed his sheer amazement to ScreenCrush, marveling, “It’s always mind-boggling when you see the amount of fans that are in that ballroom.” He added, “We’re a little tired, but it’s been a blast,” perfectly encapsulating the magic of connecting with such a dedicated audience through his voice.
9. **The Former Bud Bundy Has Children of His Own**Beyond the glitz of Hollywood and the enduring legacy of Bud Bundy, David Faustino embarked on one of life’s most profound journeys: fatherhood. In 2015, he joyfully announced that he and his then-fiancée, Lindsay Bronson, had welcomed their beautiful daughter, Ava Marie, into the world three months prior. Speaking with People magazine, Faustino candidly admitted to the delightful exhaustion that comes with new parenthood, saying, “She’s an amazing baby, but there are some nights that are crazy.”
However, the challenges of sleepless nights were quickly overshadowed by a transformative shift in his perspective. Becoming a father provided him with a new, grounding purpose, moving him beyond the often ego-driven world of entertainment. He reflected, “For me, growing up in this industry and having everything based on ego, it’s great to have something bigger to live for and get outside of myself a little bit.” This newfound depth is something he frequently shares with his followers, often posting adorable photos of Ava on his social media.
In 2022, he shared a heartwarming Instagram snap, showing him hugging his daughter with the caption, “Here’s to my little woman on #internationalwomensday #IWD May you do big thangs [sic] while you’re here.” It’s clear that Ava holds a special place in his heart, inspiring him both personally and publicly. The love and pride he feels as a father shine through every interaction, offering fans a glimpse into his cherished family life.
And for those with eagle eyes on his social media, a delightful surprise was in store! Faustino quietly revealed the arrival of a second child. In November 2021, a casual Instagram video of Ava behind a DJ board included a subtle caption: “Don’t mind pregnant wifey scooting through our vid.” Then, the following February, he formally introduced his son to the world with a picture of a yawning baby, writing, “Introducing Cassius Bronson Faustino. Welcome to planet Earth, little man.” It’s a wonderful new chapter for the star, expanding his already loving family.
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10. **You Might Spot Him Behind a DJ Booth**Remember Bud Bundy’s brief but legendary foray into the world of rap as Grandmaster B? Well, it turns out that David Faustino’s passion for music runs much deeper than a sitcom storyline! As a child star growing up in Los Angeles during the burgeoning hip-hop scene of the early 1990s, Faustino was genuinely immersed in the culture. He even became renowned for throwing a series of legendary rap parties called Balistyx at the historic Whiskey A Go Go. These weren’t just any parties; they were cultural touchstones.
Balistyx attracted iconic figures like KRS-One and N.W.A, creating a vibrant hub for the West Coast hip-hop community. But perhaps its most significant contribution was the rap battles that closed each event. These epic showdowns helped launch the career of a young, aspiring artist named will.i.am. Faustino recalled to LA Weekly, “He took it every night.” He continued, “He won for weeks in a row; people couldn’t beat him. He became a big star at Balistyx, and then Eazy-E signed him.” It’s truly wild to think of Faustino being a part of that pivotal moment in music history!
Today, Faustino’s involvement in music is as robust as ever. He regularly DJs, bringing his eclectic taste and energy to various venues. In a fantastic callback to his roots, he even opened for Method Man in Las Vegas, embracing his old alter ego’s alter ego, Grandmaster B, much to the delight of fans! Beyond the turntables, he also channels his passion into running his own record label, Old Scratch Records, further solidifying his commitment to the music industry.
But wait, there’s more! Faustino isn’t just promoting other artists; he’s creating his own tunes as well. He has released his own music as a rapper, adopting the stage persona of “this little short Italian muthaf***a named Lil’ Gweed,” as he playfully described to HipHopDX. He expressed a renewed passion for his own artistry, stating, “What’s dope is that I’ve been really writing a lot more, which has been so great. It’s been something I’ve been wanting to do but putting off for years.” It’s inspiring to see him fully embracing his creative spirit!
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11. **He’s Disappointed in the ‘Married… With Children’ Reboot News**For many years, David Faustino has been quite vocal about his hopes and dreams for a “Married… With Children” reboot. He’s clearly remained deeply connected to the show that made him a household name. In an interview with HipHopDX, he even tossed around some intriguing ideas for what a modernized version might look like. He envisioned a scenario where the show would cleverly shift its focus to Bud, especially since Faustino is now older than Ed O’Neill was when the original series first premiered.
Faustino shared his creative brainstorming, pondering, “We’ve kicked around the idea of bringing the Bud character back and what would that look like.” He speculated further, asking, “At this age, would he have a kid? Would he still be living in that house? Would Al and Peggy be somehow… they got some money, and they’re gone living in Florida?” These ideas truly show his dedication to honoring the original characters while moving their stories forward for a new generation.
Then, in 2022, exciting news broke: Deadline reported that an animated reboot of “Married… With Children” was actively being shopped around Hollywood! The biggest thrill for fans was the expectation that all four of the original lead actors – including David Faustino – would return to voice their iconic characters. It was a moment of collective anticipation, promising to bring the beloved Bundy family back to our screens in a fresh, animated format.
However, despite his successful career in voice acting, Faustino admitted to The Associated Press that the news came with a touch of disappointment. “At first, I was disappointed because I wanted to do… cause I’m young enough to still play like the father… so I was disappointed in that,” he candidly expressed. He clearly harbored hopes for a live-action return. Yet, ever the pragmatist, he also acknowledged the undeniable silver lining, reasoning, “[Voice acting is] a lot easier work, I’ll tell you that.” It seems even Bud Bundy appreciates a good work-life balance!
David Faustino’s life since “Married… With Children” is a compelling narrative of reinvention and enduring passion. Far from being simply “Bud Bundy,” he has proven himself a multifaceted talent, a dedicated father, and a creative force. His journey reminds us that while iconic roles can define a chapter, they certainly don’t write the whole story. From the recording booth to the DJ deck, and from fatherhood to his candid thoughts on a potential reboot, Faustino continues to captivate and surprise, proving that some stars just keep shining, even if they’re a little “unrecognizable” along the way.
