Former Disney star Joey Bragg, known for his role in 'Liv and Maddie', is making a bold move to reclaim his fame. Bragg, along with fellow 'Liv and Maddie' alumni John Beck and Ron Hart, has penned a screenplay titled 'Dumpster Fire'. This movie is a meta take on the struggles of child actors transitioning to adulthood and the challenges of maintaining relevance in the industry. Bragg's personal experience as a former child star has inspired him to create a story that resonates with his own journey.
The screenplay follows a grown-up kid star who realizes that his best shot at reclaiming fame is through a series of orchestrated public meltdowns. Bragg explains, 'It’s really about, ‘I peaked at 13 and now I’m trying to figure it out.’ When you’re a kid actor, you just do whatever the adults tell you to do. Then, when the show is done, you’re put in the regular industry, and you’re forced to make your own career.'
The idea for 'Dumpster Fire' was initially developed as a TV series, but the team decided to reframe it as a feature film. They have been working on the script and even held a reading at the Lyric Hyperion Theater, inviting fellow kid TV veterans like Jodie Sweetin and Jessica Marie Garcia to participate. The response has been so positive that they are planning a second and third reading in May and June, respectively.
Bragg's decision to create a meta story about his own struggles is a bold move. It showcases his understanding of the challenges faced by child actors and his determination to navigate the industry's complexities. As he prepares to take on a new role behind the camera, Bragg is setting an example for other former child stars who are looking to reboot their careers. His screenplay is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of personal experiences in shaping art.
