The role of Kevin Arnold in the television series The Wonder Years propelled Fred Savage to national attention, earning him two Golden Globe nominations and two Primetime Emmy nods by age thirteen. This early television success established a career trajectory that spanned four decades, evolving from child actor to a prolific director and producer in American entertainment.
Early Career and Education
Born in Chicago in 1976 to parents Joanne and Lewis, Savage spent his early years in Glencoe, Illinois, before relocating to Southern California. He attended Brentwood School in Los Angeles and later graduated from Stanford University in 1999 with a bachelor's degree in English. His initial screen appearances included the series Morningstar/Eveningstar and films like The Boy Who Could Fly. He gained early recognition as the grandson in the 1987 film The Princess Bride.
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Savage starred as Kevin Arnold in The Wonder Years from 1988 to 1993. Following the show's conclusion, he appeared in films including Little Monsters, The Wizard, and Austin Powers in Goldmember. His later television acting credits include lead roles in the sitcoms Working and Crumbs, as well as supporting parts in The Grinder and the Netflix series Friends from College. He also provided voice work for animated projects such as Oswald and Family Guy.
Directing and Producing Credits
Beginning in 1999, Savage transitioned into directing, helming episodes for Nickelodeon and Disney Channel series such as Drake & Josh, Hannah Montana, and Wizards of Waverly Place. His prime-time work includes directing Modern Family and 2 Broke Girls. He also served as a producer for It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia and Party Down. In 2007, he directed his first feature film, Daddy Day Camp.
Professional Misconduct Allegations
Throughout his career, Savage faced several claims of inappropriate behavior. In 1993, a lawsuit alleging sexual harassment against Savage and co-star Jason Hervey was settled out of court. In 2018, a costume designer from The Grinder filed a complaint alleging assault and battery; Fox reported that an internal investigation cleared him of wrongdoing. In 2022, Savage was terminated from his role as producer and director on The Wonder Years reboot following an investigation into misconduct allegations.
Fast facts
- Born: 1976, Chicago
- Education: Stanford University, Brentwood School
- Breakthrough Role: Kevin Arnold in The Wonder Years
- Directorial Film Debut: Daddy Day Camp (2007)
- Spouse: Jennifer Lynn Stone
- Citizenship: United States
Questions readers ask
What is Fred Savage's educational background?
He attended the private Brentwood School and graduated from Stanford University in 1999 with a degree in English.
Why was he fired from The Wonder Years reboot in 2022?
He was fired from the position of executive producer and director following an investigation into allegations of inappropriate conduct.
Achievements
- Began acting as a young child
- Starred in 'The Princess Bride'
- Cast as Kevin Arnold on 'The Wonder Years' at age 12
- Among the youngest Emmy-nominated lead actors ever
