david henrie
David Henrie balances Disney roots with new roles

Who Is David Henrie? Inside the American Actor and Writer’s Journey from Disney Stardom to Creative Storytelling

From teen sitcom fame to emerging as a thoughtful storyteller behind the camera, David Henrie has grown into one of Hollywood’s most versatile creative talents. With a career that spans acting, screenwriting, and directing, he continues to captivate audiences while staying true to his values.

Quick Bio

Full NameDavid Clayton Henrie
Date of BirthJuly 11, 1989
Place of BirthMission Viejo, California, USA
Age (as of 2025)35 years old
Height5 ft 11 in (180 cm)
WeightApprox. 77 kg (170 lbs)
ProfessionActor, Writer, Director
Known ForWizards of Waverly Place, This Is the Year
SpouseMaria Cahill (m. 2017)
ChildrenPia, James, Gemma
Notable SiblingLorenzo James Henrie (actor)
EducationCheyenne Traditional School (Arizona)

Early Life and Family Background

david henrie

David Henrie was born on July 11, 1989, in Mission Viejo, California, and raised in Phoenix, Arizona. His parents—Linda Henrie, a talent manager, and James Henrie, a former producer—encouraged his creative interests from a young age. With strong religious roots and a close-knit family, David grew up surrounded by values of discipline, humility, and ambition. He shares a deep bond with his younger brother Lorenzo James Henrie, who also found success in the entertainment industry.

Education and Early Interests

David’s early education took place at Cheyenne Traditional School in Arizona, where he balanced academics with a growing fascination for performance. Whether it was acting out scenes at home or writing short stories, he was drawn to the rhythm of storytelling. His early passions also included sports—especially hockey—and watching classic films that fueled his desire to one day work in front of the camera and eventually behind it.

Early Career and First Screen Appearances

At just 13 years old, Henrie landed his first acting gig in the series Providence (2002), followed by a role in The Pitts (2003). These small but significant appearances built a foundation for his on-screen confidence. Soon after, he made guest appearances in shows like Judging Amy, NCIS, Cold Case, and That’s So Raven, where he played Larry, one of Raven’s quirky classmates. His standout humor and expressive presence hinted at a promising future in television comedy.

Breakthrough with Disney and Wizards of Waverly Place

David’s major breakthrough came in 2007 when he was cast as Justin Russo, the book-smart older brother in Disney Channel’s Wizards of Waverly Place. Alongside Selena Gomez, he helped the show become a staple of 2000s teen TV, winning an Emmy Award for Outstanding Children’s Program. His character’s dry wit and intellectual charm resonated with viewers of all ages. Interestingly, David didn’t just act—he also wrote two episodes of the series, foreshadowing his transition into screenwriting.

Other Notable TV Roles

In addition to Disney Channel success, Henrie also appeared on How I Met Your Mother as Luke Mosby, the son of protagonist Ted Mosby. Though his role was non-speaking, he appeared in nearly every season-opening and finale sequence. Other appearances included Jonas, The Suite Life on Deck, and a recurring stint on That’s So Raven. His ability to adapt to both drama and comedy made him a reliable figure on young adult television.

Film Career and Directorial Work

As his television work matured, David turned to the big screen. He starred in dramas like Little Boy and Walt Before Mickey, where he portrayed a young Walt Disney. He also appeared in box-office comedies like Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2. But Henrie’s most personal project came in 2020 when he co-wrote and directed the coming-of-age indie film This Is the Year. The project was a passion-driven tribute to films like Can’t Hardly Wait, showcasing not just his understanding of the genre but his emotional intelligence as a storyteller.

Voice Acting and Other Projects

Henrie expanded his talents through voice work in international films and animated features, including The Secret World of Arrietty, where he voiced Shō in the English version. He also appeared in A Tale Dark & Grimm, blending dark fantasy with voice performance. From faith-based dramas like 1000 to 1: The Cory Weissman Story to indie films like Cardboard Boxer, David showed a deliberate approach to choosing roles that resonate with depth and meaning.

Age and Physical Appearance

david henrie

As of 2025, David Henrie is 35 years old and remains an emblem of polished professionalism. Standing at 5 feet 11 inches with an athletic build and weighing approximately 77 kilograms, he presents a clean-cut image with his green eyes, dark brown hair, and sharp facial features. His relaxed style and warm demeanor make him a fan favorite both on and off the screen.

Personal Life and Relationships

david henrie

Known for his grounded nature, David has kept his romantic life sincere and relatively private. He was once linked to Lucy Hale and briefly rumored to be dating Selena Gomez, though the two remain close friends. In 2017, he married Maria Cahill, a former Miss Delaware. The couple now has three childrenPia, James, and Gemma—and often share glimpses of family life through social media. David’s devotion to his Catholic faith plays a significant role in his personal and professional decisions.

Public Image and Industry Reputation

Within the entertainment industry, David Henrie is known for his professionalism, humility, and creative curiosity. He’s regarded as a multitalented figure who evolved gracefully from child star to thoughtful director. His advocacy for faith, family values, and positive messaging has set him apart in an industry often dominated by superficial trends. He’s admired for maintaining long-standing relationships in Hollywood and for consistently engaging with fans in meaningful ways.

Recent Work and Future Endeavors

Following his directorial debut, Henrie starred in the sitcom Underdeveloped (2023) and continues to pursue projects that align with his belief in storytelling with substance. He’s reportedly working on new scripts, including family-oriented films and animated features. With increased interest in producing and directing, he’s poised to become a creative force not just in front of the camera, but behind it as well.

Legacy and Cultural Impact

Having risen to prominence during Disney Channel’s golden era, David Henrie helped define a generation of programming that was both fun and heartfelt. His growth from teenage actor to creative storyteller reflects a commitment to longevity and craft. With his evolving career, he continues to influence younger artists looking to balance fame with artistic integrity. His legacy is one of transformation—built not just on fame, but on purposeful creativity.

Conclusion

From lovable wizard to accomplished writer and director, David Henrie has crafted a multifaceted career defined by integrity, intelligence, and passion. As he continues to create meaningful work across platforms, his journey stands as a blueprint for young actors seeking long-term fulfillment. Whether writing screenplays, directing indie features, or raising his family, Henrie remains an artist deeply committed to telling stories that matter.

FAQs

Who is David Henrie?
David Henrie is an American actor, writer, and director best known for playing Justin Russo in Wizards of Waverly Place and Luke Mosby in How I Met Your Mother.

How old is David Henrie?
He was born on July 11, 1989, making him 35 years old as of 2025.

Is David Henrie married?
Yes, he married Maria Cahill, a former Miss Delaware, in 2017. They have three children together: Pia, James, and Gemma.

What are David Henrie’s most famous roles?
He’s widely recognized for Wizards of Waverly Place, How I Met Your Mother, and his directorial debut This Is the Year.

Has David Henrie worked behind the camera?
Absolutely. He directed and co-wrote This Is the Year and continues to explore filmmaking and producing.

What is David Henrie’s religious background?
He is a devout Catholic and often speaks publicly about his faith and family values.

What is David Henrie’s height and appearance?
He stands at 5 ft 11 in (180 cm) with an athletic build, green eyes, and dark brown hair.

Does David Henrie have siblings in the industry?
Yes, his younger brother Lorenzo James Henrie is also an actor, known for roles in Fear the Walking Dead and Star Trek: Picard.

For More Information Go To:- Hollywood Magazine

Mesfin is a versatile writer passionate about news, media, celebrity buzz, entertainment, business, tech, and beyond. With a keen eye for trends and a love for storytelling, he brings fresh, engaging perspectives to every topic he explores.