Milo Ventimiglia Joins 'This Is Us' Cast Celebrating Niles Fitch's Graduation
Milo Ventimiglia recently came together with his 'This Is Us' cast members to honor Niles Fitch's college graduation, where he played the role of young Randall Pearson. The heartwarming reunion showcased the bond shared among the Pearson family both on and off-screen.
Niles Fitch, Milo Ventimiglia, Hannah Zeile This Is Us
Courtesy of Niles Fitch/Instagram
This Is Us star Milo Ventimiglia attended the college graduation of his on-screen son Niles Fitch, proving he will always be Jack Pearson at heart.
Ventimiglia, 46, showed his support for Fitch, 22, who portrayed teen Randall on the NBC drama, at the University of Southern California's ceremony on Tuesday, May 21. Also present was Hannah Zeile, who played teen Kate. The trio took a candid picture together, with Fitch in the center wearing his cap and gown, while Ventimiglia and Zeile, 26, stood on each side.
Zeile took to her Instagram Story to congratulate @nilesfitch with a sweet photo and emojis like a graduation cap, champagne bottle, and red heart.
Even though Mandy Moore couldn't be there in person, she showed her love on Niles Fitch's Instagram. She commented, "Go Niles! Unbelievable. #proudfakemom" under a graduation photo he posted with the caption, "Dad, I did it."
This Is Us aired from 2016 to 2022, following the lives of siblings Kevin (played by Justin Hartley), Kate (played by Chrissy Metz), and Randall (played by Sterling K. Brown). The series also focused on Jack (played by Ventimiglia) and Rebecca Pearson (played by Moore), both in the present and in flashbacks, with Fitch and Zeile often appearing alongside Logan Shroyer, who portrayed teenage Kevin.
After running for six seasons and receiving 39 Emmy nominations and four wins, the cast found it challenging to bid farewell to each other. Ventimiglia, speaking exclusively to We in 2023, expressed his excitement at the possibility of reuniting with his fellow cast members in the future.
"Everyone from This Is Us is amazing," he shared with Us. "Getting back together with him or any of the other cast members, or even people from the many films I've worked on over the past 28, 29 years, would definitely be a great time."
When asked who he missed the most, the actor revealed that it was difficult to say goodbye to Moore.
Milo Ventimiglia, Niles Fitch, Hannah Zeile
Courtesy of Instagram/Hannah Zeile
He shared with E! News in 2022 that her performance was filled with authenticity every day. In their roles as Rebecca and Jack, Mandy and he didn't feel like they were acting, but rather living and evolving within their characters' marriage. This connection made him realize that he would miss her the most.
Their synchronization and deep understanding of their characters led them to assume parental roles on set. Ventimiglia explained to Us in December 2017 that he saw himself as the father figure, while Mandy Moore embodied the motherly role. They both felt a sense of protection not only for their cast but for the entire group. Susan Kelechi Watson, who plays Beth Pearson, even affectionately referred to him as 'Papa Pearson' or 'Papa Bear', a testament to the caring dynamic they shared.
Ventimiglia, known for his roles on popular shows like Gilmore Girls and Heroes, felt a natural connection to his character Jack Pearson right from the beginning.
He expressed that portraying Jack felt instinctual to him. He knows Jack's reactions, personality, and backstory on a deep level. This familiarity allows him to fully immerse himself in the character and bring even more depth to his performance.
Editor's P/S:
Milo Ventimiglia's heartfelt support for his on-screen son Niles Fitch at his college graduation is a testament to the deep bonds formed on the set of "This Is Us." Ventimiglia's presence, alongside Hannah Zeile, symbolizes the enduring family atmosphere that the cast shared during the show's run. The comments and photos shared by the cast members underscore their mutual admiration and affection, highlighting the enduring impact the series had on their lives.
Ventimiglia's portrayal of Jack Pearson resonated deeply with audiences, and his emotional depth and authenticity were crucial to the show's success. His close relationship with Moore on set, described as a "parental role," further exemplifies his commitment to creating a supportive and nurturing environment for the cast. The show's focus on family, growth, and resilience continues to inspire fans, and the cast's ongoing connections serve as a reminder of the lasting power of storytelling.
