Disney Discovers Dark Past Of Their Next Big Teenage Superstar

The Walt Disney Company is always looking for another cheery, bubbly face to take lead roles in shows, movies, and other projects. After all, you can't craft a brand that feels magical without the right stars leading the way. That's why Disney executives realized they were in big trouble after casting directors brought in New York teen actor Riley Weston. But they were gambling on a budding young star, never expecting they'd uncover her huge lie once she signed on the dotted line.

The Face of Disney

Disney's Touchstone Television thought it had found the perfect newbie to join its empire in the late '90s. Riley Weston was a cheery, uncontroversial tween brimming with talent and potential, and she stood out to executives. Her whole life, she'd proven she was willing to fight for every opportunity.

A Starving Artist

She was a starving artist in a sea of others just like her. Though Riley Weston was a talent, standing out amongst the hungry wolves was a completely different thing. Interestingly, Riley, who grew up in Poughkeepsie, New York, never had a craving for the spotlight until she moved to New York City.

Social Butterfly

Though Riley — born Kimberlee Kramer — didn't grow up with the dream of being a star, she was a cheerleader at Arlington High School and the winner of the “Most Popular” superlative. She'd grown to be the center of attention, so 18 years old, she moved to the city. The actress began cold-calling casting agents and sending them headshots.

Jobs Here and There

Eventually, she started nabbing work in television commercials, as well as some smaller roles, but she still had to babysit to pay the bills. As Kimberlee Kramer, she appeared in shows like 3rd Rock from the Sun and Who’s the Boss?, as well as films like Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit. But this wasn't enough.