The production of Home Alone 2: Lost in New York faced an unexpected hurdle in 1991 when Donald Trump, then owner of the Plaza Hotel, conditioned the use of the location on his appearance in the film. Director Chris Columbus revealed that the seven-second scene, where Trump gives directions to Kevin McCallister in the lobby, was included to secure the iconic venue. Initially a practical decision, it later became a point of criticism as Trump’s political prominence grew. The controversy, reignited in 2020, sparked debates about editing the scene in international broadcasts.
Released in 1992, the film grossed over $358 million globally and remains a Christmas classic. Trump’s brief cameo gained notoriety over time, especially after edits in Canadian broadcasts. Columbus noted that the cameo’s approval followed audience applause at a Chicago preview.
- Key locations: Plaza Hotel, New York streets, O’Hare Airport.
- Initial reaction: Audiences applauded the scene in test screenings.
- Financial impact: Global box office exceeded expectations, with strong DVD sales.
- Recent changes: Networks like CBC cut the scene for commercial timing.
Plaza Hotel negotiation
The Plaza Hotel was chosen to capture New York’s Christmas spirit. Trump, the property’s owner, demanded a cameo in addition to location fees, per Columbus.
The team considered alternatives but accepted the condition to avoid delays. The scene’s filming was quick, with Trump playing himself in a casual lobby moment.
Audience reactions in 1992
Test screenings in Chicago surprised the production with applause for Trump’s appearance. This positive response influenced the decision to keep the cameo in the final cut.
The comedic impact, tied to Trump’s fame as a businessman, contrasted with later criticism. The scene fit the film’s light tone without altering the main plot.
Dispute between director and Trump
Columbus refuted Trump’s 2023 claim that the production “begged” for his participation. The director clarified that the cameo was a requirement, not a request from the team.
Trump, in response, credited the film’s success to his presence, emphasizing its Christmas appeal. The exchange gained traction in entertainment media.
The director considered cutting the scene during editing, but early audience support prevailed. Years later, he questioned the decision due to Trump’s political context.
Tim Curry’s set memories
Tim Curry, who played the villain Uncle Hector, shared anecdotes about interactions with the Trump family. Ivanka Trump, then a teenager, showed the cast a room she decorated at the hotel.
Curry described the decor as extravagant, offering a polite response. He also recalled Trump introducing Marla Maples as a “talented actress” during filming.
Trump’s presence on set was brief, focused on his scene and social introductions. Curry maintained professional distance, prioritizing the film’s work.
Edits in international broadcasts
The CBC in Canada cut Trump’s scene in 2014 to adjust commercial timing. The network denied political motives, but the edit sparked debate after 2019 reruns.
In the U.S., the scene remains on platforms like Disney+. Online petitions, backed by Macaulay Culkin, called for its digital removal in 2020.
Macaulay Culkin’s stance
Culkin, now 45, humorously supported requests to remove Trump’s scene in 2021. He suggested replacing it with his aged image but avoids deep commentary on the issue.
The actor, star of the 1990 original, maintains an intact legacy, with the franchise selling over 50 million VHS copies. The controversy doesn’t overshadow his career but fuels discussions on editing classics.
Film’s legacy
Home Alone 2 remains a Christmas staple, with annual broadcasts and cultural memes. Kevin’s New York adventure continues to attract new generations.
Columbus, who later directed Harry Potter films, solidified his career. The Trump controversy hasn’t diminished the film’s impact, which thrives in reruns and DVD sales.
