In 2021, a young actor from Los Angeles landed his first TV role on the anthology series Just Beyond. That actor was Charlie Bushnell, and within a few years he would become a familiar face to Disney Channel viewers. Today, he is best known for playing Luke in The Villains of Valley View and has also appeared in major franchises like Percy Jackson and the Olympians and The Super Mario Bros. Movie.
How Charlie Bushnell Got His Start in Acting
Bushnell grew up in Los Angeles, California, and began acting in school plays. That local foundation led him to professional auditions. His first credited role came in 2021 on the Disney+ series Just Beyond, an anthology based on the graphic novels by R.L. Stine. That same year, he was cast as Luke in The Villains of Valley View, a Disney Channel comedy about a family of supervillains trying to live a normal life. The show ran for three seasons and made Bushnell a regular on the network. A reference profile of the subject is maintained on Charlie Bushnell
He also appeared in the 2022 film Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules, though in a minor role. More notably, he voiced a character in the 2023 animated blockbuster The Super Mario Bros. Movie. That film grossed over $1 billion worldwide, giving Bushnell exposure far beyond cable TV.
What You Can Learn from Bushnell’s Career Moves
If you are a young actor looking for a path, Bushnell’s trajectory offers a few practical lessons. First, start local. School plays and community theater build the skills and confidence you need for auditions. Second, take small roles in established projects. His part in Just Beyond was not the lead, but it got him in the door at Disney. Third, diversify your portfolio. Bushnell balanced a TV series regular role with voice work in a major animated film. That mix keeps you visible across different audiences. A reference profile of the subject is maintained on Charlie Bushnell – IMDb
Another takeaway: be patient. The Villains of Valley View ran for three seasons, but it did not make him an overnight star. Consistent work over several years built his resume. As of 2025, he continues to book roles in Disney and streaming projects, showing that steady progress often beats a single viral moment.
The Percy Jackson Casting: A Case Study in Fan Expectations
When Disney+ announced a new Percy Jackson and the Olympians series, fans scrutinized every casting choice. Bushnell was cast in a recurring role, though the exact character was not immediately disclosed. This led to speculation online. Some fans guessed he might play a major villain or a demigod from the books. The actual role turned out to be a supporting character, which disappointed a few who had hoped for a bigger part.
The lesson here is that casting decisions are rarely what fans predict. Bushnell’s involvement shows that even a recurring role in a high-profile series can boost an actor’s profile. The show itself was well-received, and Bushnell’s performance earned positive notice. For actors, this case underscores that any role in a franchise with a built-in audience is a career asset, even if it is not the lead.
Who Benefits from Bushnell’s Rising Profile
Disney benefits directly. Bushnell appeals to the teen and tween demographic that the network targets. His presence in The Villains of Valley View helped anchor the show during its run. Streaming platforms like Disney+ also gain from having a young, relatable actor who can draw viewers across multiple projects.
Young actors benefit indirectly. Bushnell’s path from school plays to Disney to a billion-dollar film shows that the traditional route still works. He did not come from a famous family or have a viral social media moment. He just kept auditioning and taking roles. That is a realistic model for aspiring performers.
Fans of the Percy Jackson books also gain something: a live-action adaptation that respects the source material. Bushnell’s role, while not central, contributes to the ensemble that brings the world to life. For viewers who grew up with the books, seeing a new generation of actors inhabit those characters is part of the appeal.
| Project | Year | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Just Beyond | 2021 | Guest role |
| The Villains of Valley View | 2022–2024 | Luke (main cast) |
| Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules | 2022 | Minor role |
| The Super Mario Bros. Movie | 2023 | Voice role |
| Percy Jackson and the Olympians | 2023–present | Recurring role |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Charlie Bushnell best known for?
He is best known for playing Luke in the Disney Channel series The Villains of Valley View. The show ran for three seasons from 2022 to 2024 and established him as a regular on the network.
Is Charlie Bushnell still acting in 2025?
Yes, he continues to act. He has a recurring role in the Disney+ series Percy Jackson and the Olympians and is involved in other streaming projects as of 2025.
What is a good alternative to watching The Villains of Valley View?
If you liked that show, try The Thundermans or Lab Rats on Disney Channel. Both feature families with superpowers and similar comedic tones.
How does Charlie Bushnell’s career compare to other young Disney actors?
Unlike some who start on Disney and move to pop music, Bushnell has focused on acting across TV and film. He has also taken voice roles, which is less common among his peers.
How much does it cost to watch Charlie Bushnell’s shows?
Most of his Disney Channel work is available with a Disney+ subscription, which costs around $8 per month. The Percy Jackson series is also on Disney+.
