Toby Froud, the iconic baby from Jim Henson’s 1986 fantasy classic Labyrinth, reflects on his role, the film’s enduring legacy, and his lifelong connection to its magical world as the movie celebrates its 40th anniversary with a theatrical re-release.
The Legacy of ‘Labyrinth’ and Toby Froud’s Unique Connection
Toby Froud, the son of legendary fantasy illustrator Brian Froud and acclaimed sculptor and puppet maker Wendy Froud, was cast as baby Toby in Jim Henson’s 1986 fantasy classic Labyrinth at just 18 months old. Now 41, Froud has become a living connection between generations of fans, embodying the film’s enduring magic.
Speaking with People, Froud reflects on what it means to be part of Labyrinth, sharing that while he doesn’t have real memories of filming, he has grown up with the knowledge of his role. “I have grown up with the knowledge that I was in that movie and that I was a part of something since I can remember,” he explains.
Growing Up in a World of Fantasy
Froud’s upbringing was steeped in fantasy, with goblins and fairies as a normal part of his life. “I grew up with goblins and fairies surrounding me my whole life,” he recalls. “Labyrinth feels normal to me. The rest of the world is weird.” This unique environment contributed to his calm demeanor on set, as he was surrounded by creatures and puppets from an early age.
On set, Froud was often seen wandering around, unfazed by the elaborate production. His comfort with the fantastical elements of the film is evident in his interactions with the puppets. “I loved the puppets, I squished their noses,” he recalls. “It was very natural.”
The Magic of Practical Effects
Froud’s recent work includes major projects like The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance and Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio. He is currently the Puppet Art Director at Shadowmachine, working on several projects in development. For Froud, stop motion offers a rare magic, as it allows creators to “literally create the world from the ground up and bring characters to life that you couldn’t otherwise bring that way.”
As Labyrinth returns to theaters for a limited time on January 8-11, Froud believes audiences have a rare opportunity to reconnect with the film as it was meant to be experienced. “When you get to see this film on the big screen, you get the grandeur of the world,” he says. “They’re not CG… one of those characters could reach through the screen and touch you.”
A Lifelong Connection to ‘Labyrinth’
Froud’s connection to Labyrinth extends beyond his role as baby Toby. He is a living testament to the film’s enduring legacy, embodying the magic and wonder that has captivated audiences for decades. As the film celebrates its 40th anniversary, Froud’s reflections offer a unique perspective on the film’s impact and his lifelong connection to its fantastical world.
For Froud, being recognized as “the baby from Labyrinth” is a testament to the film’s longevity. “It’s a wonderful thing,” he shares. “Because it shows that [Labyrinth] stood the test of time.”
As the film returns to theaters, Froud is eager to experience it once again. “I love every chance I get to see Labyrinth,” he tells People. His enthusiasm is a reminder of the film’s enduring magic and its ability to captivate audiences across generations.
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