Ross Malinger
41 years old
Who is Ross Malinger?
Ross Malinger is a former American child actor and current automobile salesperson, best known for his role as Jonah Baldwin in the 1993 romantic comedy classic “Sleepless in Seattle” alongside Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan. With a career that spanned the 1990s and early 2000s, Malinger became a familiar face in family films and sitcoms before stepping away from the entertainment industry.
Family & Background
Ross was born to a showbiz family. His father, Brian Malinger, is a producer and sales representative, while his mother, Laura Malinger, also worked as a producer. He has two siblings:
- Tyler Cole Malinger – Actor
- Ashley Malinger – Actress
Growing up surrounded by entertainment professionals, Ross started acting at a very young age. His full name is Ross Aaron Malinger.
Education
Ross Malinger attended Moorpark College in California. After his early success as a child actor, he gradually shifted focus toward education and a more private life.
Ross Malinger’s Acting Career
Ross began acting in the early 1990s, making appearances in both films and television series. His breakout role came in 1993 as Jonah Baldwin in Sleepless in Seattle. His emotional performance as a young boy trying to find love for his widowed father resonated with audiences worldwide.
Notable Film Appearances:
- Kindergarten Cop (1990)
- Sleepless in Seattle (1993)
- Eve of Destruction (1991)
- Toothless (1997)
- Sudden Death (1995)
- Frog and Wombat (1998)
Television Roles:
- Good Advice (1993–1994)
- Nick Freno: Licensed Teacher (1996–1997)
- Recess (1997–1998, voice role)
- Party of Five
- Touched by an Angel
- Without a Trace (2006 – last known role)
Over the years, he accumulated more than 30 acting credits before retiring from Hollywood in the mid-2000s.
Life After Hollywood
After stepping away from the screen, Ross transitioned into the automobile industry and is currently working as a car dealership manager. Unlike many former child stars, Malinger opted for a quiet, grounded life outside the limelight.
Is Ross Malinger Married?
Ross Malinger is known for being very private about his personal life. However, public records confirm he was married to a woman named Kelsey Malinger, but the couple divorced in 2019. The reason for their separation remains undisclosed, and he has since kept his dating life out of the spotlight.
Awards & Recognition
Ross Malinger earned several accolades during his short but impactful career:
- Young Artist Award (1994) – Sleepless in Seattle
- Young Artist Award (1997) – Toothless
- Multiple nominations for his performances in family-friendly films and series
Fun Facts
- He voiced the character TJ Detweiler in the first season of Disney’s Recess.
- Ross’s performance in Sleepless in Seattle helped make the film one of the most beloved romantic comedies of the 1990s.
- Despite fame, he chose a low-key lifestyle, far from the glitz of Hollywood.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Ross Malinger still acting?
No. He stepped away from acting in the mid-2000s and now works in auto sales.
2. What is Ross Malinger doing now?
He currently works as an automobile dealership executive in California.
