As Home Alone continues its annual run as one of the most-watched Christmas movies, the holiday classic carries a strong Montgomery County connection through actor Daniel Stern, with an added local tie through the late John Heard… something we love to feature each holiday season.
Daniel Stern, who memorably played Marv Murchins, one half of the bumbling “Wet/Sticky Bandits,” grew up in Bethesda and attended Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School in the 1970s. Long before international fame, Stern was immersed in Montgomery County’s school and arts scene, experiences that helped shape his future acting career. Although he left B-CC early to pursue acting in New York, he has never shied away from acknowledging his local roots.
Back in June, Stern took to Instagram to reflect on his time at B-CC, sharing a nostalgic post that quickly caught the attention of locals. Along with a video showing off some playful dance moves, Stern wrote, “Unless you went to B-CC High School back in the 1970s, it is probably best if you don’t watch this. This is ‘It’s On The Roof!,’ our fight song. We used to rock that gym when we all chanted it at pep rallies before the football and basketball games.” He jokingly pointed out the “subtle messaging” in the song that went unnoticed at the time, while also poking fun at his “Joe Cocker-inspired dance moves.” The post struck a chord with alumni and MoCo residents who recognized the familiar school spirit.
While Stern’s Montgomery County ties are front and center, Home Alone also features another notable local connection through John Heard, who played Kevin McCallister’s father, Peter. Heard was raised in Washington DC, attended Catholic University, and later spent significant time in Chevy Chase, where his parents lived. Though Heard passed away in 2017, his role remains an essential part of the film’s heart and family dynamic.
