Peter Billingsley (born April 16, 1971), who has also been credited as Peter Michaelsen and Peter Billingsley-Michaelsen, is an American actor who later expanded his career into directing and producing.
Career overview
Billingsley first became widely recognized as a child actor and remains best known for his lead role in the holiday film A Christmas Story (1983), in which he portrayed the character Ralphie Parker. In addition to that signature part, his early screen work included roles such as Jack Simmons in The Dirt Bike Kid and Billy in Death Valley. During the 1980s he was also familiar to television audiences as "Messy Marvin" in a series of Hershey's chocolate syrup commercials.
Later work
After establishing himself on screen at a young age, Billingsley broadened his involvement in the entertainment industry to include behind-the-camera roles as a director and producer. He continues to be identified with his childhood performances while also maintaining a presence in film and television production.
Notable roles
- Ralphie Parker in A Christmas Story (1983)
- Jack Simmons in The Dirt Bike Kid
- Billy in Death Valley
- Messy Marvin — Hershey's chocolate syrup commercials (1980s)