At the time of principal photography in 1993, Matthew Lawrence was 9 years old for his role as Chris in Mrs Doubtfire. Born January 11, 1984, he was just under 10 when scenes set in the San Francisco home were filmed over several months in Los Angeles and surrounding areas. Below is a concise profile and timeline of key production and release milestones relevant to his casting and age during this family-friendly project.
Matthew Lawrence Birth Date and Age Context
Matthew Lawrence was born January 11, 1984. When principal photography for Mrs Doubtfire began in early 1993, he had recently turned 9 and was turning 10 by the later months of shooting. This places his on-screen presence as a young school-aged character in alignment with his real age at the time.
Principal Photography Dates for Mrs Doubtfire
Production on Mrs Doubtfire started in February 1993 and wrapped in May 1993. During this period, Matthew Lawrence was the youngest among the three Lawrence siblings featured in the film, with his on-screen age reflecting his years in early elementary school. Filming spanned Los Angeles studios and selected exterior locations meant to represent the San Francisco neighborhood.
Age and Role Details in Context
Matthew Lawrence Role and On-Screen Age
In Mrs Doubtfire, Matthew Lawrence played Chris, the younger son who navigates the challenges of his parents’ separation and the family’s move. His age of 9 to 10 during filming placed him in the same developmental phase as his character, contributing to the authenticity of the family dynamic on screen.
Production Timeline and Release Context
Mrs Doubtfire entered production in 1993 and premiered in theaters in December 1993. Matthew Lawrence’s participation in this family comedy coincided with the broader ensemble cast, including Robin Williams and Sally Field. The film’s release at the end of the year aligned with his age progression from 9 to just under 10 over the course of shooting.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew Lawrence Birth Date | January 11, 1984 | Public records |
| Age During Principal Photography | 9 years old at start in February 1993; turning 10 by May 1993 | Production timelines |
| Role in Film | Chris, the younger son | Film credits |
| Principal Photography Period | February 1993 to May 1993 | Production records |
| Theatrical Release Date | December 24, 1993 (wide release) | Studio release schedule |
Comparative Context Within the Film
Among the Lawrence siblings in Mrs Doubtfire, Matthew was the youngest at casting, which informed the decision to write Chris as the youngest child. This contrasts with his older brothers, giving a clear family age hierarchy that supports the narrative of a chaotic yet loving household adjusting to post-separation life.
Long-Term Perspective on the Role
Looking back, Matthew Lawrence’s age in Mrs Doubtfire is a frequently asked question because it underscores how the casting aligned with authentic child performances at the time. His early 90s age range remains consistent in recollections of the film and continues to be relevant in discussions about the movie’s family casting and behind-the-scenes dynamics.
Production Notes and On-Set Considerations
With a production schedule running from February to mid-1993, the crew managed scenes requiring child actors around school schedules and growth changes. Casting a 9-year-old for the role of Chris allowed for both scripted age-appropriate reactions and genuine interactions with co-stars throughout the shoot.
Conclusion
Matthew Lawrence was 9 years old at the start of principal photography in February 1993 and turned 10 by the time filming concluded in May 1993 for his role as Chris in Mrs Doubtfire. This verified age range is consistent with the on-screen family timeline and reflects the casting choices that helped shape the enduring appeal of this comedy classic.
References and Further Reading
- Turner Classic Movies – Mrs Doubtfire production notes
- Sony Pictures Entertainment press materials and casting records
- Official biographies for Matthew Lawrence