The child star | Source: Getty Images
Once a beloved child star who captured hearts in Hollywood, this actor’s early success was followed by legal troubles that eventually pushed him out of the limelight. Now, sporting a rugged new look — complete with a beard — he’s nearly unrecognizable as he chooses to live a quieter, more private life away from the public eye.
A former child star who managed to stay out of the spotlight for years, even after a run-in with the law, is now sporting a beard that makes him barely recognizable to his longtime fans. His transformed appearance reflects his low-key lifestyle, far removed from his Hollywood past.
The actor at The Hollywood Reporter 4th Annual Young Star Awards on November 7, 1999 | Source: Getty Images
The actor rose to fame with his memorable role as Forrest Gump’s son, capturing hearts in the iconic film Forrest Gump. His touching performance made him a beloved figure in American cinema, forever linked to one of the most cherished movies of its time.
The child star and Bruce Willis on the set of “The Sixth Sense,” 1999 | Source: Getty Images
His career skyrocketed after his standout performance in The Sixth Sense (1999) alongside Bruce Willis, a role that earned him critical acclaim and solidified his status as a young acting prodigy. Just a year after this breakthrough, he starred with Kevin Spacey and Helen Hunt in Pay It Forward, showcasing his incredible range. He continued his impressive streak by taking the lead role in Steven Spielberg’s A.I. Artificial Intelligence the following year, further cementing his place in Hollywood.
Child prodigy and Bruce Willis on the set of “The Sixth Sense,” 1999 | Source: Getty Image
Chuck Norris and child prodigy on the set of “Walker, Texas Ranger,” 1997 | Source: Getty Images
This early success laid the groundwork for his career. He would become the first millennial to receive an Oscar acting nomination but lost to Michael Caine.
From having an angelic look to a more mature appearance, here is the history-making child star who has significantly transformed through the years.
The Actor in 1994
In 1994, a young Haley Joel Osment charmed audiences with his boyish innocence. Images from that year show him with a cherubic face, framed by light brown hair.
Haley Osment on the set of “Thunder Alley,” 1994 | Source: Getty Images
From his joyful curiosity in commercials to his profound depth in film roles, this young actor displayed an extraordinary ability to convey deep emotions, even at an early age. His remarkable talent captured the hearts of both audiences and critics alike, who praised his unique gift for bringing a sense of sincerity and thoughtfulness to every performance.
Edward Asner and Haley Osment on the set of “Thunder Alley,” 1994 | Source: Getty Images
The child star stumbled into acting purely by chance. At just four years old, he was spotted by a talent scout while shopping at Ikea. Shortly after, he made his first on-screen appearance in a 1993 Pizza Hut commercial. His natural charisma caught the attention of the Forrest Gump director, who approached him for the iconic role that would soon launch his career into the Hollywood spotlight.
Haley Osment and Edward Asner on the set of “Thunder Alley,” 1994 | Source: Getty Images
Playing Forrest Jr. may have been just a small part of five-year-old Haley Joel Osment’s career, but his screen test with Tom Hanks continues to circulate on social media. The heartwarming interaction between the two remains a fan favorite, showcasing the genuine connection that helped make their scenes so memorable.
Haley Osment on the set of “Thunder Alley,” 1994 | Source: Getty Images
Osment in 1997
By 1997, Haley Joel Osment was still active in both TV and film, and his appearance started to show subtle changes from his earlier years. As the award-winning star began to grow into his features, his look became more defined, offering a glimpse of the young adult he was on the verge of becoming. This natural evolution hinted at the future maturity and versatility he would bring to his roles.
Haley Osment holds Sparky the dog at the Genesis Awards on April 5, 1997, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Osment in 1999
When The Sixth Sense premiered in 1999, it marked a turning point for Haley Joel Osment, showcasing his transformation into a serious, thoughtful young actor. His deep-set eyes and solemn demeanor perfectly captured the haunted emotions of his character, earning him widespread praise and solidifying his reputation as a rising star with immense emotional depth.
A headshot of Haley Osment on September 25, 1999, in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images
This role catapulted Haley Joel Osment to global fame, firmly securing his place in Hollywood. Audiences and critics alike were captivated by his ability to convey wisdom beyond his years, leading many to see him as a talented young actor with an old soul, capable of delivering performances far beyond his age.
Haley Osment during the 6th Annual Dream Halloween Benefit at Barker Hangar on October 30, 1999, in Santa Monica, California. | Source: Getty Images
Director M. Night Shyamalan initially worried that Haley Joel Osment might be too much of a “cherub” to fit the role in The Sixth Sense. However, he quickly realized that beneath the boyish charm lay a serious-minded and precocious talent, capable of delivering a hauntingly powerful performance that would redefine his career.
Bruce Willis and Haley Osment at the preview of the film “The Sixth Sense,” on December 8, 1999 | Source: Getty Images
For his final audition—his third—for The Sixth Sense, Haley Joel Osment donned a suit that added a touch of maturity to his youthful demeanor. M. Night Shyamalan was so moved by the boy’s vulnerability and emotional depth that he was brought to tears. Osment’s delivery of the now-iconic line, “I see dead people,” resonated deeply with Shyamalan, solidifying his belief that the young actor was perfect for the role.
Haley Osment attends the Hollywood premiere of “Bicentennial Man,” 1999 | Source: Getty Images
Osment in 2000
At the start of the new millennium, Haley Joel Osment attended the 72nd Academy Awards as a nominee, solidifying his status as one of Hollywood’s top young talents. This prestigious event not only celebrated his remarkable achievements but also showcased his potential to continue making a significant impact in the film industry.
Haley Osment pictured on January 1, 2000 | Source: Getty Images
Hayley Joel Osment and Harrison Ford backstage at the 26th People’s Choice Awards on January 9, 2000, in Pasadena, California. | Source: Getty Images
Haley Osment at the 52nd Annual Writers Guild of America Awards on March 5, 2000 | Source: Getty Images
By this time, Haley Joel Osment’s style had matured significantly. At public events, he presented himself with a polished demeanor, blending his youthful charm with an emerging sophistication that reflected his growth as both an actor and an individual. This evolution added a new layer to his presence in Hollywood, showcasing his ability to adapt to the demands of fame while retaining his genuine spirit.
Angelina Jolie accepts her award from Haley Osment at the Sixth Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards (SAG) on March 12, 2000, in Los Angeles. | Source: Getty Images
Haley Osment during The 72nd Annual Academy Awards – Nominees Luncheon at Beverly Hilton Hotel on March 13, 2000, in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images
Haley Osment at a photocall during the Cannes Film Festival on May 14, 2000, in Cannes, France. | Source: Getty Images
He also returned to school, where he was treated just like any other student, without the celebrity status that followed him in Hollywood. In fifth grade, Osment noted that this experience marked a “shift in gear,” allowing him to navigate life more easily and embrace a sense of normalcy amid his rising fame. This grounding experience helped him balance his burgeoning career with the everyday challenges of growing up.
Haley Osment and film director Yurek Bogayevicz on the set of “Edges of the Lord,” 2000 | Source: Getty Images
Portrait of Haley Osment on the set of “Edges of the Lord,” 2000 | Source: Getty Images
Helen Hunt, Haley Osment, and Kevin Spacey pose at the premiere of “Pay It Forward,” 2000 | Source: Getty Images
The Sixth Sense was deemed unsuitable for kids under 13 at the time, meaning most of Haley Joel Osment’s classmates didn’t have the opportunity to see the Oscar-nominated film. This created a unique dynamic for Osment, as he navigated life in school while his peers were largely unaware of the depth of his cinematic achievements, allowing him to maintain a sense of normalcy despite his early fame.
Theresa Osment, Haley Osment, and Michael Osment at the Los Angeles premiere of “Pay It Forward,” 2000 | Source: Getty Images
Haley Joel Osment at “Hollywood Salutes Bruce Willis: An American Cinematheque Tribute” at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on September 23, 2000, in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images
Haley Osment on the set of “Pay It Forward,” 2000 | Source: Getty Images
Meanwhile, Haley Joel Osment’s sister, Emily Osment, faced “a way tougher path” to fame in her own right. Best known for her role in the popular Disney series Hannah Montana alongside Miley Cyrus, Emily carved out her own niche in the entertainment industry, navigating the challenges of growing up in the spotlight while establishing her identity as an actress and musician.
Kevin Spacey and Haley Osment on the set of “Pay It Forward,” 2000 | Source: Getty Images
Haley Joel Osment explained that his sister had to contend with significant invasions of privacy while starring in Hannah Montana, which deprived her of a normal life. He noted that the pressure was compounded by the need for her to maintain a presence on social media, a challenge he consciously avoided until he was 27 years old. This difference in their experiences highlighted the unique struggles that come with growing up in the public eye, especially in an era increasingly dominated by online scrutiny.
Steven Spielberg, Haley Osment, and Jude Law on the Sunday Calendar on May 6, 2001 | Source: Getty Images
Haley Joel Osment during photocall at the 58th International Film Festival on September 6, 2001. | Source: Getty Images
Haley Osment at Deauville on September 10, 2001 | Source: Getty Images
Osment in 2002
By 2002, Haley Joel Osment continued to work in film, but largely under the radar. Many people no longer recognized him as the child star from The Sixth Sense, allowing him to explore roles and projects without the overwhelming attention that had accompanied his earlier fame. This quieter phase of his career gave him the opportunity to grow as an actor while embracing a more private lifestyle.
Haley Osment attends the premiere of “E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial,” 2002. | Source: Getty Images
Haley Osment at the 30th AFI Life Achievement Award honoring Tom Hanks on June 12, 2002. | Source: Getty Images
Haley Osment during the “Secondhand Lions” press conference at The Four Seasons Hotel on August 10, 2003, in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images
During this time, Haley Joel Osment showcased his versatility by lending his voice to films like The Country Bears and The Jungle Book 2. As he continued to develop his skills, his appearance also began to reflect the changes of adolescence, marking a new chapter in his career. This evolution not only highlighted his adaptability as an actor but also signaled his transition into more mature roles in the future.
Haley Osment, John Goodman and Mae Whitman at the premiere of “The Jungle Book 2,” 2003 | Source: Getty Images
His face became more angular and he had a teenage growth spurt. It made him look very different from the young boy America had first loved.
Haley Osment attends the world premiere of “Open Range,” 2003 | Source: Getty Images
Osment in 2005
Haley Osment at the 2005 Giffoni International Children’s Film Festival – Press Conference at the Cinema Truffaut on July 17, 2005, in Giffoni, Italy. | Source: Getty Images
Haley Osment 2005 Giffoni International Children’s Film Festival – Haley Joel Osment Tribute at the Alberto Forbi Arena on July 17, 2005, in Giffoni, Italy. | Source: Getty Images
Hayley Osment at the team photocall at the Celtic Manor Resort on August 27, 2005, Newport, Wales. | Source: Getty Images
Osment in 2006
The year 2006 proved to be tumultuous for Haley Joel Osment, marked by a highly publicized drunk driving incident that led to his arrest. In mug shots from that time, he appeared as a young man grappling with the consequences of his actions, a stark contrast to the polished public image he had maintained in earlier years.
Following the incident, Osment sustained multiple injuries, including a fractured rib and a shoulder injury. He faced charges for driving under the influence and underage drinking, which served as a turning point in his life and career, prompting reflection and personal growth in the years that followed.
Haley Osment in a mug shot following his arrest in 2006 in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
At 18, Haley Joel Osment made the move to New York to study experimental theater at New York University, eager to embrace the college experience his parents hoped for him. He reflected on his early career, saying, “I did work that practically nobody saw for a long time, which was not a great career move – but, ultimately, it was important for me to figure out whether this was what I truly wanted to do for the rest of my life.” This period of exploration allowed him to grow both personally and artistically, paving the way for his future endeavors in the industry.
Jesse Mc Cartney and Haley Osment at the Playstation 2’s “Kingdom Hearts II” launch party on March 23, 2006, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Osment in 2007
By 2007, Haley Joel Osment was focused on rebuilding his career and image, taking on roles that reflected a more mature perspective. He carefully selected projects that showcased his depth as an actor, moving away from the innocent charm of his youth. This shift allowed him to explore complex characters and demonstrate his growth, proving that he was not just a former child star but a versatile actor ready to take on more significant challenges.
Haley Osment at the Opening Night Curtain Call and Press Room for “A Moon for Misbegotten” on April 9, 2007 | Source: Getty Images
Osment in 2008
In 2008, Haley Joel Osment made his Broadway debut, marking a significant milestone in his career. By this time, his appearance had matured, with the early signs of facial hair giving him a more grown-up look.
His role as a heroin addict in American Buffalo allowed him to delve into dark, complex themes, showcasing his range as an actor. Reflecting on that experience, Osment admitted in a 2020 interview, “That was definitely a very fun period of playing a lot of bad guys,” highlighting his enthusiasm for embracing challenging roles that pushed him creatively.
Haley Osment photographed on November 6, 2008 | Source: Getty Images
This experience also further distanced him from his child-star persona. He agreed that it might have been an act of rebelliousness against his “angelic childhood image.”
Osment in 2012
In 2012, Osment took on the role in the film “Sassy Pants.” It showed his ability to play against type. He looked very different but still had youthful features.
The movie star had a pinch-his-cheeks-cute face which was rounder. Additionally, his body was a lot beefier, than in his youth.
Haley Osment at Fox 5 Studios on July 27, 2012, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
His performance in “Sassy Pants” was as a quirky, unconventional character. It won him praise and showed his willingness to push acting’s boundaries.
Osment in 2014
By 2014, Osment had immersed himself in character roles. The roles leveraged his dramatic skill. His stint in “Sex Ed” showed his comic timing.
Haley Osment at the Moby Los Angeles Photo Exhibition press preview & VIP opening at Project Gallery on February 20, 2014, in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images
Notably, Osment’s look was fuller and he had a well-groomed beard. It matched his shift to more mature and nuanced characters. He looked unrecognizable after gaining weight.
Social media users expressed shock at how Osment looked entirely different than before. They took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to comment on his weight gain.
Haley Joel Osment attends the Variety Studio at Holt Renfrew during the 2014 Toronto International Film Festival on September 7, 2014, in Toronto, Canada. | Source: Getty Images
“Just noticed Haley Joel Osment in the ending credits of ‘What We Do in the Shadows.’ I’m like who? When? Had to google it omg completely unrecognizable,” wrote one person. Another said, “Can we talk about how Haley Joel Osment is almost unrecognizable in this?”
Someone else penned, “Does this man make you wonder why Haley Joel Osment gained so much weight? Almost unrecognizable. Such an incredible actor and now no parts for Haley.”
Haley Joel Osment attends the Los Angeles premiere of “Tusk,” 2014 | Source: Getty Images
However, Osment was okay with appearing different. “I would say it’s fine that it’s unrecognizable. It’s good. […] there’s those sort of roles that give you the opportunity to undergo a transformation like that are really really kind of fun,” Osment lamented.
Osment in 2016
Osment kept appearing in TV and film. This showed his stable career. He had a look that was both friendly and mature. His roles often need a mix of sensitivity and strength. This mix had become a hallmark of his performances.
Haley Osment and Emily Osment attend the 44th AFI Life Achievement Award Gala Tribute honoring John Williams at Dolby Theatre on June 9, 2016, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Osment in 2017
Osment took on roles with serious themes by 2017. They reflected his growth as an actor who can handle complex issues. He presented himself with a neat beard and a polished appearance.
Haley Osment at the Deadline Hollywood Emmy Season Kickoff party on June 5, 2017, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Haley Osment seen on June 5, 2017, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Haley Osment attends the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation’s 3rd Annual Blue Diamond Gala at Dodger Stadium on June 8, 2017, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Osment in 2018
Osment starred in the praised series “Silicon Valley.” The comedy show aired for six seasons from 2014 to 2019 and it won two Primetime Emmy Awards. This stint was a departure from Osment’s previous roles.
Haley Osment on the set of “Silicon Valley,” 2017 | Source: YouTube/Today
During this period, Osment had a full-grown beard. The star revealed that he grew a beard “to try to hide in public. That didn’t really work at all.”
Having grown up in the limelight, Osment’s upbringing is not cliched like that of fellow child stars. He once commented on working as a child saying there is an expectation for negative experiences along the way.
Haley Osment during an appearance on the “Today” show on June 14, 2017 | Source: YouTube/Today
“But I think there are a lot more stories of people who had positive experiences working as children and didn’t have that kind of cliched storyline going forward. And that’s been the case for me,” Osment explained.
Osment in 2020
The year 2020 found Osment reflecting on his career during the lockdown. During this time, his roles were introspective. They mirrored his personal journey from child star to established actor. During this time, he had moved back to his hometown LA after living in NY for 13 years.
Haley Osment is seen on March 1, 2020, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Osment in 2023
Osment’s career continued to thrive in 2023. He had roles in both TV and film. They used his wide acting range. His look was now distinguished as he had a beard and a confident manner. It matched the complexity of the characters he portrayed.
Haley Osment at the SAG-AFTRA Foundation’s 13th Annual L.A. Golf Classic at North Ranch Country Club on June 12, 2023, in Westlake Village, California. | Source: Getty Images
Osment in 2024
As of 2024, Osment remains respected in acting. His current appearance reflects a long journey. He has gone from a child star to a seasoned actor. He has a well-groomed beard and a mature, thoughtful demeanor.
Haley Osment attends the Los Angeles premiere of “Drugstore June,” 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Osment still receives recognition for transforming his abilities and dedicating himself to his craft. “Nice to see a child actor turned out normal,” commented one user. Another wrote, “This guy is still absolutely adorable. He has such a tremendous presence and seems to really have fun with what he does and not take it too seriously.”
“He’s so cute he seems like he would be good at hugging,” one individual expressed. Someone else echoed, “He looks like a huge cuddly teddy bear!!! I just wanna give him a BIG hug!!!!”
“It’s pretty apparent that he grew up to be a very intelligent actor. I see him as the next Phillip Seymour Hoffman,” one social media user stated.
Haley Osment at the Cinespia 20th anniversary screening of “The Sixth Sense” presented by Amazon Studios at Hollywood Forever on October 19, 2019 in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images
In a September 2024 interview with Entertainment Weekly, the child prodigy reflected on his relationship with Willis after “The Sixth Sense” became a hit. “I heard from him a lot after it came out in those subsequent years. He’d leave voicemails at the house from time to time, just checking in. He would just call out of the blue, so sometimes it was in the lead up before travel,” he shared.
Bruce Willis is seen out in his car on September 21, 2024, in Brentwood, California | Source: Getty Images
“We went to Japan together twice, if I remember correctly, to open Sixth Sense in different cities. So he would call ahead of that, and then sometimes I would just come home from school and the answering machine would be blinking and it’d be him going like, ‘Hey, Haley Joel. Just saying hi.’ I need to find those old answering tapes. I know we preserved those,” noted Osment.
Osment also shared that while he knows Willis’ daughters a little, he hasn’t spoken to the actor since the news of his health struggles became public.
Haley Joel Osment is seen on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” on October 1, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Osment was once a child prodigy. Now, he is a versatile actor. He has made bold choices and delivered transformative performances throughout his career.
Most recently, Osment appeared in the 2024 psychological thriller “Blink Twice,” starring alongside Channing Tatum, Zoë Kravitz, and Naomi Ackie. This role, like many of his others, showcases his continued evolution as an actor.
Haley Joel Osmont on August 08, 2024, in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
Each year has marked a big step in his journey. This is true not in his chosen roles but in his physical change. He has become almost unrecognizable from his days as a child star.
