Back in 1998, 12-year-old Lindsay Lohan became a household name with her breakout roles as Hallie Parker and Annie James in Disney’s beloved remake of The Parent Trap. Her performance as the mischievous yet lovable twins captured the hearts of audiences worldwide and catapulted her into Hollywood stardom. But, as Lohan recently revealed, even Disney executives didn’t fully grasp her talent at the time.
A Breakthrough Performance
For anyone unfamiliar with The Parent Trap (though how could you be?), it’s the charming tale of identical twins separated as babies who meet at summer camp and plot to reunite their estranged parents. Lohan flawlessly portrayed both sisters, effortlessly switching between Hallie’s laid-back California vibe and Annie’s proper British demeanor.
Related: Actress Wants Justice For One Disney Villain on Film’s 24th Anniversary
Her performance was so seamless that many people, including Disney’s then-CEO Michael Eisner, assumed Lohan actually had a twin.
During a recent appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, Lohan recalled an unforgettable moment from the film’s premiere. Eisner approached her and asked, “Where’s your twin?” Young Lindsay’s response? A cheeky, “Well, you should’ve paid me double because I don’t have one.” Talk about a mic-drop moment! Lohan’s quick wit left Cohen and the audience in stitches, proving she’s always had the charm to match her talent.
View this post on Instagram
From Stardom to Struggles—and Back Again
While The Parent Trap solidified Lohan’s place in Hollywood, her journey hasn’t been without challenges. Her rise to fame in the late 1990s and early 2000s was followed by personal struggles, including battles with addiction and mental health issues, all played out under the harsh glare of the spotlight. But the Mean Girls star has shown remarkable resilience, turning her life around and reemerging as a force to be reckoned with.
In 2014, Lohan moved to Dubai to escape the relentless paparazzi and focus on rebuilding her life. Since then, she’s found stability and happiness, marrying financier Bader Shammas in 2022 and welcoming their son, Luai, in 2023. Fans couldn’t be more thrilled to see Lohan thriving in her personal life while reigniting her acting career.
Related: Disney Releases MAJOR ‘Freaky Friday 2’ Update!
A Career Revival Worth Celebrating
Lohan has returned to the screen in a big way, starring in Netflix hits like Falling for Christmas (2022) and Irish Wish (2024). Her performances have reminded fans of the talent that made her a star in the first place.
But she’s not stopping there—Lohan is gearing up to reprise her role alongside Jamie Lee Curtis in Freakier Friday, the much-anticipated sequel to the 2003 classic Freaky Friday. Scheduled for release in August 2025, the film will explore Anna Coleman’s life as she navigates the complexities of motherhood and a blended family.
A Legacy of Laughter and Nostalgia
Lohan’s delightful anecdote about Michael Eisner at The Parent Trap premiere is a testament to her humor and confidence, even as a child. It’s also a reminder of just how special her career has been. From her impeccable comedic timing to her ability to handle emotionally charged roles, Lohan’s talent continues to shine.
As we eagerly await her next projects, it’s worth reflecting on how far she’s come—from the wide-eyed girl wowing audiences in The Parent Trap to a seasoned actress with a career worth celebrating. Lindsay Lohan’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and a little bit of Disney magic.
What’s your favorite Lindsay Lohan role? Are you excited for Freakier Friday? Let us know in the comments!