Meet the Cast of Eighth Grade - Learn about the actors in the movie

Based on the most awkward year of your life

Released on January 19, 2018
Comedy Drama

"Eighth Grade," a poignant coming-of-age film, centers around the life of thirteen-year-old Kayla Day, portrayed by the talented Elsie Fisher. As she navigates the often overwhelming experience of contemporary suburban adolescence, Kayla finds herself at a pivotal crossroads. The film captures the emotional roller coaster that is the last week of her eighth-grade year, a time filled with anxiety, self-discovery, and the anticipation of what lies ahead as she braces herself for the transition to high school. With her father, Mark Day, played by Josh Hamilton, offering support yet struggling to connect with her, the film delves into the complexities of adolescent life and parental relationships.

Throughout the film, Kayla grapples with the pressures of fitting in and the desire to be accepted as she faces the everyday challenges of middle school. With social media amplifying her insecurities, Kayla attempts to navigate friendships while dealing with the relatable awkwardness that often accompanies adolescence. In a world dominated by peer approval and digital validation, her journey becomes a heartfelt exploration of the trials and tribulations every young person faces as they strive to forge their identity.

As the final days of middle school unfold, Kayla experiences moments of both triumph and heartache, ultimately culminating in a hopeful outlook as she prepares to step into high school. "Eighth Grade" artfully captures the essence of youth, portraying the humor, sadness, and unpredictability that come with growing up. With its authentic storytelling and relatable characters, the film resonates with audiences, reminding us of the universal feelings of vulnerability and resilience inherent in the transition to adulthood.

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Full Cast of Eighth Grade

Elsie Fisher

as Kayla Day

Elsie Fisher's portrayal of Kayla Day in the coming-of-age film "Eighth Grade" is nothing short of remarkable. As the socially awkward protagonist navigating the treacherous waters of middle school, Fisher delivers a performance that is both authentic and emotionally resonant. Her ability to convey the nuanced struggles of adolescence, from the anxiety of fitting in to the longing for genuine connection, is riveting. Fisher's expressive eyes and subtle shifts in demeanor capture the universal pangs of growing up with an endearing sincerity that transcends the screen. Her character's journey through the trials of young adulthood is depicted with such raw honesty that it's hard not to feel a deep empathy for Kayla, a testament to Fisher's incredible talent. This breakout role showcases Fisher's capacity for dramatic depth and comedic timing, marking her as a young actor with a promising future. Elsie Fisher's embodiment of Kayla Day is a poignant reminder of the complexities of youth, earning her widespread acclaim and establishing her as a relatable voice for a generation.

Josh Hamilton

as Mark Day

Josh Hamilton delivers a nuanced and heartfelt performance as Mark Day in Bo Burnham's poignant film "Eighth Grade." As the single father to 13-year-old Kayla, Hamilton brings a warmth and authenticity to the role, capturing the awkwardness and earnestness of a parent trying to connect with his adolescent daughter. His portrayal is marked by a delicate balance of affection and concern, perfectly encapsulating the struggles of fatherhood in the face of teenage angst and the digital age's complexities. Hamilton's performance is a standout, particularly in his subtle expressions and body language, which convey a deep love and the silent worries he harbors for Kayla's well-being. His scenes are touching and often humorous, providing a realistic and relatable depiction of parenting that resonates with viewers. Hamilton's Mark Day is not just a supporting character; he is the emotional anchor of the film, embodying the unconditional love and patience required to guide a child through the tumultuous times of adolescence.

Emily Robinson

as Olivia

Emily Robinson delivered a nuanced and affecting performance as Olivia in the coming-of-age film "Eighth Grade," directed by Bo Burnham. As Olivia, Robinson portrayed a high school student who befriends the protagonist, Kayla, during a mentorship program. Her character is a beacon of empathy and kindness, offering a gentle contrast to the often confusing and intimidating landscape of adolescence. Robinson's portrayal captured the delicate balance between the confidence of a older student and the lingering insecurities that high school can breed, resonating with the authenticity of teenage experience. Her interactions with Kayla, played by Elsie Fisher, are particularly poignant, as she guides her younger counterpart through the trials of middle school with a mix of wisdom and her own relatable vulnerabilities. Emily Robinson's performance was praised for its warmth and sincerity, contributing significantly to the film's resonant depiction of growing pains and the search for identity.

Jake Ryan

as Gabe

Jake Ryan delivers a noteworthy performance as Gabe in the film "Eighth Grade," portraying the character with a delicate balance of awkward charm and genuine warmth that perfectly encapsulates the trials of adolescence. As the quintessential middle schooler, Gabe navigates the social labyrinth of young teenage life with a mix of hesitance and bravado, embodying the universal struggle of finding one's identity amidst the pressures of peers and personal expectations. Ryan's portrayal resonates with authenticity, capturing the nuanced emotions and insecurities that come with the territory of being a young teenager. His interactions with the protagonist, Kayla, are particularly poignant, highlighting the tentative steps toward connection and the blossoming of first crushes. Ryan's performance is a standout, providing both levity and depth to a film that delves into the complexities of growing up in the digital age.

Daniel Zolghadri

as Riley

Daniel Zolghadri delivers a nuanced and compelling performance as Riley in Bo Burnham's poignant film "Eighth Grade." As the seemingly confident and sociable peer who befriends the introverted protagonist, Kayla, played by Elsie Fisher, Zolghadri's portrayal brings depth to a character that could have easily been reduced to a one-dimensional archetype. His ability to convey a mix of kindness and subtle manipulation adds layers to Riley, making him a memorable figure in Kayla's journey through the treacherous landscape of adolescence. Zolghadri's performance is particularly impressive in the way he balances Riley's charm with an underlying discomfort, hinting at the character's own insecurities and the performative nature of teenage social interactions. His interactions with Fisher are authentic and often cringe-inducing, echoing the awkwardness of real-life teenage experiences, and his presence is a highlight of the film's exploration of the complexities of growing up in the age of social media.

Fred Hechinger

as Trevor

Fred Hechinger delivered a memorable performance as Trevor in Bo Burnham's "Eighth Grade," a film that delves into the trials and tribulations of adolescence. Hechinger's portrayal of Trevor, a friendly and well-intentioned high school student who befriends the shy and socially awkward protagonist, Kayla, is both genuine and endearing. His character serves as a beacon of hope for Kayla, providing guidance and companionship during her challenging transition from middle school to high school. Hechinger's acting captures the nuanced balance between the awkwardness of teenage interactions and the sincere desire to be kind and inclusive, showcasing Trevor's growth from a somewhat oblivious older kid to a thoughtful peer who recognizes Kayla's struggles. His performance is a testament to the complexities of youth, highlighting the impact that small acts of kindness can have on a person's life during formative years. Fred Hechinger's Trevor is a character that resonates with authenticity, adding warmth and depth to the film's exploration of the universal themes of growing up and finding one's place in the world.