It’s been 30 years since Matilda first arrived on cinema screens, and the cast of the beloved childhood classic have reunited for a special anniversary celebration in London.

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Danny DeVito, Mara Wilson, and Pam Ferris were among the familiar faces who came together at the Royal Albert Hall on October 30, 2026, marking three decades since the film’s original release.

More than 5,000 fans attended the event, which featured a special screening of the 1996 film accompanied by a live orchestra performing its original soundtrack.

And for those who grew up watching the story of a gifted young girl standing up to her horrible parents and terrifying headmistress, seeing the cast together again was a particularly nostalgic moment.

The celebration formed part of the Royal Albert Hall’s Films in Concert series, with 81-year-old DeVito returning to the spotlight to host the occasion. The actor – who directed the original film and played Matilda’s dishonest father Harry Wormwood – narrated proceedings from a leather armchair beside the podium.

Meanwhile, the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra performed David Newman’s original score live as the film played.

But the biggest attraction was undoubtedly the reunion of the actors who brought Roald Dahl’s famous characters to life.

Mara Wilson, who played Matilda Wormwood, attended alongside Pam Ferris, whose portrayal of the fearsome Miss Trunchbull remains one of the film’s most memorable performances.

Kiami Davael, who played Matilda’s best friend Lavender, also returned for the celebration. They were joined by Jacqueline Steiger, who portrayed Amanda Thripp, and Kira Spencer Hesser, who played Hortensia.

Released in 1996, Matilda was based on Roald Dahl’s novel about an extraordinarily intelligent young girl who discovers she possesses telekinetic powers.

Living with parents who fail to appreciate her inteligence, Matilda eventually finds support in her kind-hearted teacher, Miss Honey, while standing up against the cruelty of her school’s headmistress.

The film has remained a favourite among generations of viewers, making the anniversary celebration an opportunity for fans to revisit the story alongside the people who helped create it.

Following the event, Wilson shared her excitement on Instagram, reflecting on the experience of reuniting with her former co-stars.

Writing on Instagram, she said: “Matilda 30th Anniversary Celebration at Royal Albert Hall in London! Five thousand Matilda fans! I still cannot believe it! What a joy to celebrate with people who mean so much to me, with whom I share so many wonderful memories. Jaki, Kiami, Pam, Kira, David Newman, and of course, Uncle Danny, I love you all.”

While filming Matilda, Wilson was dealing with an incredibly difficult situation in her personal life.

Her mother was battling cancer, and DeVito and his wife, Rhea Perlman, helped look after the young actress during that period.

Sadly, Wilson’s mother died before the film was released. DeVito subsequently dedicated Matilda to her memory, adding an emotional significance to a film that already meant so much to those involved.

Three decades later, Wilson’s continued affection for the actor shows how their connection has endured long beyond their time working together – still referring to him as “Uncle Danny”.

Although several of the film’s biggest stars attended the anniversary celebration, one familiar face was noticeably absent.

Embeth Davidtz, who portrayed the beloved Miss Honey, was unable to attend the reunion.

However, she made sure to acknowledge the occasion by leaving a heartfelt comment on Wilson’s Instagram post, writing: “So so sad I couldn’t be there! You all look wonderful!”

The images and videos from the event quickly hit social media, and fans of the movie flooded comments sections. “This made my whole day, love you all so much,” one person wrote.

A second added: “THIRTY YEARS?!? Ahhhh this movie meant so much to me as a kid.”

Yes, thirty years after they first brought the story to life, the friendships formed during filming have clearly lasted. And judging by Wilson’s emotional message, being reunited with her Matilda family was every bit as meaningful for the actors as it was for the thousands of fans watching.

Featured image credit: Instagram/MaraWilson