McKenna Grace has established an excellent career as a child actress, smoothly transitioning from child roles to more serious and mature performances. She has starred in horror movies, dramas, action-adventures, and even legacy sequel films, solidifying her versatility. Here’s a rundown of her best movies and television shows, including box office hits, awards, and audience reception.
1. Ghostbusters: Afterlife (2021)
Role of McKenna Grace: Phoebe Spengler
Worldwide Box Office: $204.3M Grossed
Awards: Nominated – Critics’ Choice Super Award for Best Young Actress in a Film
This legacy sequel to the original Ghostbusters follows a teenage girl, Phoebe (McKenna Grace), who discovers her connection to the legendary Ghostbusters team. She is joined by her brother (Finn Wolfhard) and teacher (Paul Rudd) as they uncover the secrets left behind by her late grandfather, Egon Spengler. Grace delivers a tour-de-force performance, balancing intelligence and vulnerability while shouldering much of the film’s emotional weight.
“Is this safe?”
– Phoebe, Ghostbusters: Afterlife
2. Captain Marvel (2019)
Role of McKenna Grace: Young Carol Danvers
Worldwide Box Office: $1.13B Grossed
This Marvel Cinematic Universe hit features McKenna Grace as young Carol Danvers in flashback scenes. Though brief, her role adds depth to Carol’s backstory, showcasing her struggles with self-esteem and determination before becoming an iconic superhero.
“I’m kind of done with you telling me what I can’t do.”
– Young Carol Danvers, Captain Marvel
3. Gifted (2017)
Role of McKenna Grace: Mary Adler
Worldwide Box Office: $43M Grossed
Awards: Nominated – Critics’ Choice Movie Award for Best Young Performer
In this moving drama, Grace plays a child prodigy caught in a custody battle between her grandmother and uncle (Chris Evans). Her natural and emotionally compelling performance amazed audiences, proving her ability to hold her own alongside industry veterans.
“I thought of things that made me sad.”
– Mary Adler, Gifted
4. I, Tonya (2017)
Role of McKenna Grace: Young Tonya Harding
Worldwide Box Office: $53.9M Grossed
Awards: Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress (won by Allison Janney)
This biographical sports drama narrates the sensational life of figure skater Tonya Harding. McKenna Grace portrays young Tonya, depicting her troubled childhood and abusive upbringing, which fueled her drive to succeed. Her performance plays a crucial role in setting the dramatic tension of the film.
“There’s no such thing as truth. It’s bullshit. Everyone has their own truth, and life just does whatever the f* it wants.”**
– Tonya Harding, I, Tonya
5. Annabelle Comes Home (2019)
Role of McKenna Grace: Judy Warren
Worldwide Box Office: $231.3M Grossed
As part of The Conjuring franchise, this film follows Judy Warren, the daughter of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren. Alone at home, Judy faces the terrifying Annabelle doll. Grace’s performance perfectly balances innocence and bravery, making the supernatural threat feel more personal and sinister.
“I sometimes see things, like how my mom sees things.”
– Judy Warren, Annabelle Comes Home
6. The Haunting of Hill House (TV Series, 2018)
Role of McKenna Grace: Young Theodora Crain
This Netflix horror series masterfully weaves past and present timelines. McKenna Grace portrays young Theodora Crain, a telekinetic child who experiences the horrors of Hill House. Her performance helps capture the fear and trauma from a child’s perspective, adding emotional depth to the show.
“They can spill.”
– Young Nell Crain, The Haunting of Hill House
7. Young Sheldon (TV Series, 2018–Present)
Role of McKenna Grace: Paige Swanson
In this Big Bang Theory spin-off, Grace plays Paige Swanson, a fellow child prodigy and intellectual rival to Sheldon Cooper. Her character explores the challenges of high intelligence, including loneliness and the pressure to succeed. Her dynamic with Iain Armitage (Sheldon) adds a unique layer to the series.
“Him being so young isn’t, like, weird?”
– Paige Swanson, Young Sheldon
8. The Handmaid’s Tale (TV Series, 2021–Present)
Role of McKenna Grace: Mrs. Keyes
Awards: Nominated – Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series
Grace delivers a chilling and powerful performance as Mrs. Keyes, a young wife trapped in a tyrannical society. Behind her seemingly obedient demeanor, she harbors deep resentment and secretly fights against her oppressors. This role marks her transition into more mature dramatic performances.
“I’m actually terrified.”
– Esther Keyes, The Handmaid’s Tale
9. The Bad Seed (2018)
Role of McKenna Grace: Emma Grossman
This psychological thriller casts Grace as a seemingly perfect young girl hiding a dark secret. Her portrayal of a manipulative sociopath is both unsettling and captivating, showcasing her ability to take on complex horror roles.
“It doesn’t matter how I feel. He’s dead anyway.”
– Emma, The Bad Seed
10. A Friend of the Family (2022, TV Series)
Role of McKenna Grace: Jan Broberg (Teen)
Based on real events, this Peacock miniseries follows the shocking kidnapping of Jan Broberg. Grace plays teenage Jan, bringing emotional depth to the character as she grapples with psychological trauma. Her performance was widely praised for its sensitivity and authenticity.
“Tell me anything and everything that you think I should know.”
– Jan Broberg, A Friend of the Family
11. Designated Survivor (TV Series, 2016–2019)
Role of McKenna Grace: Penny Kirkman
Grace plays the daughter of an unexpected U.S. President (Kiefer Sutherland) in this political drama. Though a supporting role, her character adds emotional weight to the series, portraying the struggles of a child adjusting to life in the White House after a national tragedy.
“Dad, what’s wrong?”
– Penny Kirkman, Designated Survivor
12. Fuller House (TV Series, 2016–2020)
Role of McKenna Grace: Rose Harbenberger
In this Netflix Fuller House spin-off, Grace plays Rose, the quirky daughter of Steve’s fiancée. Her character adds humor and charm to the show, staying true to its nostalgic appeal.
“I’m here now. What do you say? Let’s get this little brainwashing party started, huh? Woohoo!”
– Rose Harbenberger, Fuller House
13. Malignant (2021)
Role of McKenna Grace: Young Madison Lake
In James Wan’s horror-thriller, Grace portrays the childhood version of the main character, setting the stage for the traumatic past that fuels the film’s shocking twists. Her performance enhances the eerie atmosphere, making the psychological horror elements even more gripping.
“He’s the devil!”
– Young Madison, Malignant
Conclusion
McKenna Grace is one of Hollywood’s most talented young actresses, seamlessly transitioning from child roles to more complex and mature performances. Whether leading a film, playing younger versions of beloved characters, or diving into horror, drama, and action, she consistently delivers compelling performances. With multiple award nominations and box office successes, Grace’s future in the industry looks incredibly bright. As she continues to take on challenging roles, audiences can expect even more powerful performances from this rising star.
