Ryan Grantham is a former Canadian actor known for his roles in hit productions like Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Supernatural, and Riverdale. Once a rising child star, his career took a tragic turn in 2020 when he was convicted of murdering his mother. This article explores his full biography, filmography, family life, and the shocking events that ended his career. From screen success to criminal infamy, discover everything about Ryan Grantham.
Who Is Ryan Grantham?
Ryan Grantham is a former Canadian actor whose early rise to fame was marked by a series of successful roles in film and television. He is best known for his work in “Diary of a Wimpy Kid,” “Supernatural,” and “Riverdale,” and his career in the entertainment industry began at a very young age. However, Grantham’s name has become more widely recognized in recent years for deeply troubling reasons—his 2022 conviction for the murder of his mother shocked the public and has largely defined his legacy. This article provides a comprehensive look at Ryan Grantham’s life, from his early acting career to the tragic crime that brought it all to a halt.
Biography Table
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ryan Grantham |
| Date of Birth | November 30, 1998 |
| Age | 26 (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Squamish, British Columbia, Canada |
| Nationality | Canadian |
| Occupation | Former Actor |
| Active Years | 2007 – 2020 |
| Famous For | Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Riverdale, Supernatural |
| Notable Character | Rodney James in Diary of a Wimpy Kid |
| Conviction | Second-degree murder |
| Sentence | Life imprisonment (Parole eligibility: 14 years) |
| Parents | Mother: Barbara Waite |
| Siblings | One sister (name not publicly disclosed) |
Early Life and Background
Ryan Grantham was born on November 30, 1998, in Squamish, a small town in British Columbia, Canada. From an early age, he showed an interest in acting and performing. He was raised in a middle-class household by his mother, Barbara Waite, who played a supportive role in nurturing his creative ambitions. Ryan was also close to his sister, although her identity has been kept out of the public eye for privacy reasons. His mother enrolled him in acting classes, and it was not long before Ryan began auditioning for television commercials and small roles. Grantham’s early start in acting laid the foundation for what looked like a promising career in the Canadian and American entertainment industries.
Ryan Grantham’s Career in Film
Ryan Grantham’s career began when he was just nine years old. He made his screen debut in a number of short films and minor television roles. His breakout role came when he played Rodney James in the 2010 family comedy “Diary of a Wimpy Kid”, a film based on the popular book series by Jeff Kinney. Grantham’s portrayal of Rodney James, a quirky and socially awkward student, earned him a modest but notable following. This role is still one of the most frequently searched terms related to him, with many fans still referencing “ryan grantham diary of a wimpy kid character” when searching for his filmography. He also appeared in other films, including “Becoming Redwood,” which showcased his ability to take on emotionally complex characters.
TV Shows with Ryan Grantham
In addition to films, Ryan Grantham built a steady television career, appearing in several Canadian and American TV series. Among the most popular tv shows with Ryan Grantham is “Supernatural,” in which he appeared in a guest role during the show’s early seasons. He played the character of Todd, a troubled teenager involved in a paranormal storyline. This episode showcased his dramatic abilities and helped him gain more recognition within the TV industry. Other shows Ryan Grantham appeared in include “iZombie,” “Way of the Wicked,” and “The Secret of the Nutcracker.” These roles, while not leading, helped establish his reputation as a versatile young actor.
Ryan Grantham in Riverdale
One of the more prominent roles Ryan Grantham took on later in his career was in the hit teen drama “Riverdale.” In 2019, he appeared as Jeffrey Augustine, the character responsible for the death of Fred Andrews, played by the late Luke Perry. Though a minor character in terms of screen time, Grantham’s role was critical to the plot. His performance was widely discussed, especially since “ryan grantham riverdale” has become one of the most searched keywords following his criminal case. His appearance in “Riverdale” brought him mainstream attention and placed him on the radar of fans of the CW network series.
Ryan Grantham’s Role in Diary of a Wimpy Kid
In the film “Diary of a Wimpy Kid,” Ryan Grantham portrayed Rodney James, a nerdy and awkward classmate who participates in a school play. This role, though small, remains one of the most recognizable in his acting career. The film was a commercial success and has since become a cultural touchstone for millennials and Gen Z viewers. The popularity of the movie has led many to revisit his character, sparking searches for “ryan grantham diary of a wimpy kid rodney james” and similar terms. Grantham’s performance as Rodney was notable for its comedic timing and relatability, making him a memorable part of the franchise.
Family Background: Ryan Grantham’s Mother
Ryan Grantham’s relationship with his mother, Barbara Waite, was once described as close and supportive. She had been a constant in his life, encouraging his early acting endeavors and ensuring he had access to training and opportunities. Tragically, she became the victim of a horrifying crime that would forever alter how the world sees her son. In March 2020, Grantham shot and killed Barbara while she was playing piano in their home. His journal later revealed that he had planned to commit further acts of violence, including a plot to assassinate Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, though he never followed through. The murder shocked the entertainment industry and the public alike.
Personal Life and Relationship Status
Very little is known about Ryan Grantham’s relationship status during his acting career. He was never publicly linked to any girlfriend or boyfriend, and no romantic relationships were ever confirmed. Whether due to his young age, private nature, or lack of long-term partnerships, Grantham kept this part of his life out of the spotlight. In the absence of any verified information, it appears that he may have been single at the time of his conviction. Many fans have speculated on his mental health and social life, especially in the wake of his crime, but few confirmed details exist.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
The most defining and tragic chapter of Ryan Grantham’s life began in March 2020. After the murder of his mother, he turned himself in to police and confessed. In 2022, he was convicted of second-degree murder, which in Canadian law carries an automatic life sentence with no parole eligibility for at least 14 years. The court also revealed that Grantham had documented his thoughts and intentions in a diary, which became a key piece of evidence. This has led to increased public interest in the phrase “ryan grantham wikipedia” as people seek more information about his crime and its aftermath.
Psychological Evaluation and Mental Health
Following his arrest, Grantham underwent a psychological evaluation. Reports indicated he had been struggling with mental health issues, including depression and suicidal ideation, in the months leading up to the murder. During court proceedings, his defense team argued that he was not in a rational state of mind. While this did not absolve him of legal responsibility, it added complexity to his case. Mental health professionals noted that he had shown signs of remorse and had actively sought psychiatric help in custody, which may play a role in future parole hearings.
Ryan Grantham Appears In: Full Filmography Overview
To understand the range of his talent, here’s a look at the movies and TV shows Ryan Grantham appeared in:
- Diary of a Wimpy Kid (2010) – Rodney James
- Riverdale (2019) – Jeffrey Augustine
- Supernatural (2008) – Todd
- Becoming Redwood (2012) – Young Jack
- Way of the Wicked (2014) – Robbie
- The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus (2009) – Young Anton
- iZombie (2015) – Guest Role
- Riese: Kingdom Falling (2009) – Young Prince
- The Secret of the Nutcracker (2007) – Young Hero
Public and Industry Reactions
Ryan Grantham’s fall from child star to convicted criminal stunned fans and colleagues alike. Many of his former co-stars expressed sadness and disbelief, especially those who had worked with him in “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” and “Riverdale.” His crime has raised ongoing debates about mental health, youth fame, and the pressures of early celebrity. Some continue to revisit his earlier work, while others prefer to distance themselves from it entirely.
Conclusion
Ryan Grantham life story is a sobering tale of potential lost to tragedy. From an early start in successful productions like “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” and “Supernatural” to a career-high role in “Riverdale,” he seemed poised for long-term success. However, his 2020 crime irrevocably changed his path, leaving behind a legacy of grief, regret, and wasted promise. Today, Grantham remains incarcerated, serving a life sentence, with the earliest possibility of parole in 2036. His name, once associated with rising stardom, is now a grim reminder of the darkness that can exist beneath the surface.
FAQs
Q: Who is Ryan Grantham?
A: Ryan Grantham is a former Canadian actor best known for his roles in “Diary of a Wimpy Kid,” “Supernatural,” and “Riverdale,” who was convicted of murdering his mother in 2020.
Q: What movies and shows has Ryan Grantham appeared in?
A: Grantham appeared in “Diary of a Wimpy Kid,” “Riverdale,” “Supernatural,” “Becoming Redwood,” and several others.
Q: What role did Ryan Grantham play in Diary of a Wimpy Kid?
A: He played Rodney James, a student who acts in a school play within the film.
Q: What happened to Ryan Grantham’s mother?
A: His mother, Barbara Waite, was tragically murdered by Ryan in March 2020.
Q: Is Ryan Grantham still in jail?
A: Yes, he is currently serving a life sentence for second-degree murder, with parole eligibility after 14 years.
