A familiar face from one of TV’s most beloved coming-of-age classics just popped up in New York City.
Dan Lauria, 78, who played stern-but-softhearted dad Jack Arnold on hit ABC series The Wonder Years, was photographed over the weekend with fellow actor Alfred Molina at the Westway Diner in Manhattan. The sighting marks a rare public appearance for the longtime character actor, who has kept a lower profile in recent years while focusing on stage work.
Actors Alfred Molina and Dan Lauria visit Westway Diner on November 14, 2025 in New York CityCraig T Fruchtman/GC Images
Lauria became a household name through The Wonder Years, which ran from 1988 to 1993 and remains one of the most acclaimed shows of its era. Starring Fred Savage as Kevin Arnold and narrated by Daniel Stern, the series won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Comedy Series after only six episodes and earned a Peabody Award for redefining what a sitcom could be.
Lauria’s performance as Kevin’s no-nonsense father — gruff exterior, tender interior — was a key part of the show’s emotional core. The character remains one of TV’s most memorable TV dads.
What Dan Lauria Is Doing Now
Though his on-camera appearances have slowed, Lauria has stayed busy in the theater. He currently stars in the new play Just Another Day, which he also wrote, performing alongside Patty McCormack. Directed by Eric Krebs, the two-hander follows a comedy writer and a sophisticated poet in their seventies who meet daily on a park bench to trade barbs, reminisce about old Hollywood and — despite memory lapses — rediscover the bond between them.
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The play has earned warm praise from audiences and reviewers alike. When Lauria shared a KTLA feature about the show on Instagram, his former co-star Danica McKellar jumped into the comments, writing, “It’s a wonderful play, go see it, everyone!”
McCormack also posted photos from the production, highlighting glowing reviews, adding, “So grateful to all the reviewers who enjoyed our play! It means so very much, and hope it helps to share a deeper understanding and respect for those dealing with dementia ✨🫶🏼.”
McKellar once again cheered them on, commenting, “Loved this play! You’re both terrific in it!! 👏👏👏”
Lauria’s most recent film credit was Reagan (2024), a biographical drama starring Dennis Quaid. Lauria portrayed longtime Democratic Speaker of the House Tip O’Neill, one of Ronald Reagan’s key political counterparts — and, at times, collaborators. The film traces Reagan’s life from childhood through his presidency.
This story was originally reported by Parade on Nov 16, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.