Summary
The 2023 Goosebumps reboot features a mix of familiar faces and relatively unknown actors as its main characters.
Justin Long portrays the eccentric and unstable Mr. Bratt, who becomes possessed by the spirit of Harold Biddle, adding a touch of comedy to his usual repertoire.
Rachael Harris, a seasoned comedian, tackles the character of Nora, a mother burdened with guilt, bringing her comedic expertise to the role. Meanwhile, Rob Huebel perfectly embodies the role of Colin, the compassionate guidance counselor.
2023's Goosebumps reboot features a mix of familiar and relatively unknown actors in its main cast. Originally starting as a series of popular children's horror novels in the '90s, Goosebumps eventually made its way to television, providing a launching pad for future stars. Notably, Ryan Gosling made an appearance on an episode of Goosebumps before achieving fame. Another notable figure, Dylan Minnette, starred in the 2015 live-action Goosebumps movie and later became the leading man in 13 Reasons Why.
Given this history, it comes as no surprise that the 2023 Goosebumps reboot has chosen to cast young actors with limited experience in the main roles. The story revolves around a group of teenagers from a small town who find themselves dealing with strange supernatural events following the arrival of a new high school teacher. What they don't know is that their teacher has been possessed by the spirit of a local teenager, a figure who has a mysterious connection to their parents.
Justin Long as Mr. Bratt
Rachael Harris as Nora
The strangest character in the Goosebumps 2023 reboot is portrayed by the most recognizable star. Justin Long, known for his roles in comedies like Accepted and Dodgeball, as well as his voice work in the Alvin and the Chipmunks movies, takes on this peculiar role. Despite his comedic background, Long has also dabbled in the horror genre, starring in the classic 2001 horror film Jeepers Creepers, the 2014 cult horror Tusk, and the sleeper hit Barbarian from 2022. In the reboot, Long impeccably portrays Mr. Bratt, a calm-mannered teacher who transforms into a deranged threat after being possessed by the ghost of Harold Biddle.
In Goosebumps, Comedy veteran Rachael Harris takes on the role of Nora, a mother filled with guilt, whose teenage son, Lucas, is one of the main characters. Although Nora has experienced a tragic loss with the passing of her husband before the events of the series unfold, Harris is primarily known for her outstanding comedic performances in both film and television. She has entertained audiences with her portrayal of Susan Heffley in the Diary of a Wimpy Kid movies, as well as her supporting roles in popular films such as The Hangover, New Girl, and Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb.
Rob Huebel As Colin
Human Giant comedian Rob Huebel takes on a new role as Colin, the understanding guidance counselor in the modern Goosebumps reboot of 2023. Unlike his usual characters, Colin is a kind and compassionate figure who tries to make sense of the crazy events unfolding. This marks a departure for Huebel, who is best known as the "premiere D-bag actor of his generation" according to Entertainment Weekly. From his performances in Little Fockers and The Goldbergs to Big Mouth and Workaholics, Huebel has often portrayed semi-villainous jerks.
Ana Yi Puig as Isabella
In 2023's Goosebumps reboot, Ana Yi Puig takes on the role of Isabella, a seemingly introverted high school student harboring a mysterious secret hidden beneath her quiet demeanor. This marks one of Puig's notable acting endeavors, following her minor appearance in the 2021 film Senior Year. Prior to this, Puig also made a brief appearance in the short-lived revival of Gossip Girl, portraying a character for just one episode.
Zack Morris as Isaiah
Isa Briones as Margot
In Goosebumps 2023, Zack Morris takes on the role of Isaiah, a talented quarterback who holds the hopes and dreams of his town and school on his shoulders. Despite not being American, Morris flawlessly portrays the character and convincingly masters an American accent for this R.L. Stine adaptation. However, a thorough look at his screen CV reveals that Morris is originally from Britain, where he kick-started his acting career on the popular soap opera Eastenders from 2017 to 2022.
Margot, played by Isa Briones, portrays Isaiah's neighbor and potential love interest in Goosebumps 2023. Among the young stars of the show, Briones may be the most recognizable, having previously portrayed Soji, Data's daughter, in Star Trek: Picard. Briones has also appeared in notable productions such as The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story in 2018 and Lonely Boy in 2013. However, it is her role in the Star Trek universe that most viewers will associate her with. While Soji has been well-received, Briones' part in Star Trek: Picard marks her significant role as a human character in this upcoming project.
Goosebumps Supporting Cast & Characters
The supporting cast of Goosebumps 2023 is truly impressive. Notably, YouTuber Miles McKenna takes on the role of James, Isaiah's best friend. McKenna may not have many previous screen credits, but he has been a prominent figure on YouTube for years. His hilarious and relatable videos have gained him a substantial online following. McKenna did make a cameo appearance in the 2018 film Good Girls Get High. Additionally, we have Will Price playing the character Lucas, a laid-back slacker with a tendency for self-destructive behavior. While Price had smaller roles in The Mosquito Coast and The Endgame in 2022, Goosebumps 2023 marks his first major screen role.