David Henrie
David Henrie (born July 11, 1989) is an American actor, writer, and director. Known for Wizards of Waverly Place and How I Met Your Mother, he has transitioned into filmmaking and family life. Explore his journey, works, and reflections.
Introduction
David Clayton Henrie is an American actor, writer, and director who first won public attention in his youth and later expanded into filmmaking and family life. Best known for playing Justin Russo in Wizards of Waverly Place, he also appeared as Ted Mosby’s future son Luke in How I Met Your Mother. Over time, he has branched into writing, directing, and producing, while cultivating a personal life grounded in faith and family.
Early Life and Background
David Henrie was born July 11, 1989 in Mission Viejo, California. Lorenzo James Henrie.
Though born in California, Henrie was raised, at least partially, in Phoenix, Arizona. Roman Catholic faith.
Acting Career & Growth
Early Roles & Breakthroughs
Henrie began acting in television guest roles as a child and adolescent. Providence, Judging Amy, Without a Trace, and The D.A. Monster Makers.
In 2003, Henrie landed a recurring role as Petey Pitt on The Pitts, which gave him more visibility. That’s So Raven and Method & Red.
Wizards of Waverly Place & Disney Era
His most recognizable role came in 2007, when he was cast as Justin Russo, the eldest in a family of wizards, on Disney Channel’s Wizards of Waverly Place. Meet the Werewolves.
Meanwhile, he appeared as Luke Mosby, Ted Mosby’s future son, in How I Met Your Mother.
Film & Later Projects
Henrie moved into film roles in projects such as Little Boy and Walt Before Mickey. 1000 to 1: The Cory Weissman Story and appeared in Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2.
In 2014, he directed a short film Catch, which he also wrote and produced. This Is the Year (2020). Wizards Beyond Waverly Place, reviving his Disney role in a new context.
Personal Life & Values
In April 2017, Henrie married Maria Cahill.
Henrie is open about his Catholic faith, which he credits for providing structure and grounding amid the demands of Hollywood.
In 2018, he was arrested at Los Angeles International Airport for carrying a loaded firearm in a secured zone. He later pleaded no contest to one charge and was placed on probation.
Selected Quotes & Reflections
While well known more for acting and filmmaking than public reflection, here are some remarks and themes associated with Henrie:
-
On professional growth and returning to roots: In discussing Wizards Beyond Waverly Place, he said filming with Selena Gomez “felt like not a day had passed.”
-
On friendship and collaboration: In working with Gomez as co-executive producers, he remarked that the experience deepened their friendship in new ways, since they began to talk professionally, not merely personally.
These statements reflect his sense of continuity, loyalty, and embracing new creative roles while honoring earlier ones.
Lessons & Takeaways
From David Henrie’s life and evolving career, we can draw several lessons:
-
Evolve continually. He began as a child actor, but has steadily expanded into writing, directing, producing, and reviving beloved roles.
-
Stay rooted. His public emphasis on faith and family suggests a grounding amid an often unstable industry.
-
Honor relationships. The continuity with former co-stars (e.g. Gomez) shows the value of sustaining professional and personal ties.
-
Growth through risk. Moving behind the camera and into new genres requires courage—he’s taken that leap.