David Lee Gallagher is an American actor and former model who began his career at age two. He is best known for his roles as Mikey Ubriacco in Look Who’s Talking Now and as Simon Camden in 7th Heaven. His career spans television, film, and video games.
David Lee Gallagher Bio
David Lee Gallagher was born in New York City on February 9, 1985. He began modeling and acting at the age of two, quickly establishing himself as a child actor in commercials and television. His breakthrough came with the role of Simon Camden on 7th Heaven, a part he played for eleven seasons. Beyond his work on television, Gallagher has appeared in numerous films and has provided voice work for popular video game franchises. He graduated from the University of Southern California in 2007 with a degree in film and television studies. He continues to work as an actor and remains active in the entertainment industry.
Early Life and Background
David Lee Gallagher was born in New York City to Elena Gallagher and Darren James Gallagher. His mother is of Cuban descent, and his father is of Irish descent. When Gallagher was an infant, his parents separated, and his mother later remarried Vincent Casey. He grew up with four younger siblings, two brothers and two sisters. His brother Killian was diagnosed with autism at the age of three, which inspired Gallagher to become a supporter and spokesperson for Autism Speaks.
Gallagher grew up in New York and began modeling at age two. He appeared in commercial work for companies such as Tyson Foods and Fisher-Price before transitioning to acting roles. His family later relocated to California, where he attended Chaminade College Preparatory School, graduating in 2003. After high school, he enrolled at the University of Southern California, where he studied film and television production.
Path to Acting
Gallagher began his entertainment career as a toddler, modeling for print advertisements in and around New York City. This early work led to commercial acting roles, and by the age of eight, he had secured a recurring role on the soap opera Loving. He continued building his craft through various television appearances and stage work. At age ten, he performed in a Broadway production of A Christmas Carol, marking his first theatrical experience.
These early experiences helped Gallagher develop his skills as a performer. He balanced his education with acting commitments, attending school while continuing to book roles in television and film. His dedication to both academics and his career demonstrated the discipline that would serve him throughout his professional life.
David Lee Gallagher Career
Early Career (1987–1996)
Gallagher began his professional acting career at the age of two, starting with print modeling before moving into television commercials. He appeared in advertisements for major brands during his early childhood. By age eight, he had transitioned to television with a recurring role on the daytime soap opera Loving. He continued to build his resume with appearances in television films such as Bermuda Triangle.
In 1993, Gallagher made his feature film debut in Look Who’s Talking Now, portraying the character Mikey Ubriacco. The film was a commercial success and provided him with high-profile exposure at a young age. He also appeared in Angels in the Endzone as Kevin Harper. These early film roles established him as a capable young actor in Hollywood.
Breakthrough (1996–2006)
In 1996, Gallagher was cast as Simon Camden in the family drama series 7th Heaven. The show became one of the longest-running family dramas in American television history, airing for eleven seasons on The WB and later The CW network. It became the highest-rated series on The WB and maintained strong viewership throughout its run.
During his time on 7th Heaven, Gallagher grew from a child actor into a young adult on screen. He appeared alongside the Camden family through all eleven seasons, becoming one of the show’s most recognizable cast members. During hiatuses from filming, he pursued additional acting projects, including the film Richie Rich’s Christmas Wish, where he played the title character Richie Rich. He also appeared in Little Secrets and voiced Seiji Amasawa in the English dub of the animated film Whisper of the Heart.
In 2005, Gallagher starred in and co-produced an adaptation of The Picture of Dorian Gray. When 7th Heaven concluded in 2006, Gallagher had established himself as a prominent young actor with a diverse range of credits.
Later Career (2006–Present)
After 7th Heaven ended, Gallagher enrolled at the University of Southern California, where he studied film and television production. He graduated in May 2007 and returned to acting with guest appearances on various television series. He appeared in episodes of Numb3rs, CSI: Miami, Bones, Without a Trace, and Saving Grace, taking on diverse roles that showcased his versatility as an actor.
Gallagher continued working in film with roles in Boogeyman 2 and The Deep End. Since 2002, he has provided the voice of Riku in the popular video game series Kingdom Hearts, reaching millions of players worldwide. In 2012, he co-starred in the film Scared of the Dark, directed by Takashi Shimizu. In April 2024, it was announced that Gallagher and his former 7th Heaven co-stars Beverley Mitchell and Mackenzie Rosman would co-host the rewatch podcast Catching up with the Camdens!, reflecting on their time on the beloved series.
David Lee Gallagher Award Nominations
David Lee Gallagher has received industry recognition throughout his career. He has been nominated five times for the Young Artist Award, one of the most prestigious honors for young performers in Hollywood. These nominations acknowledged his work as a child and teen actor across various film and television projects.
David Lee Gallagher Awards Won
David Lee Gallagher won a Teen Choice Award, recognizing his status as a popular young actor in Hollywood. The award reflected his contribution to 7th Heaven and his work in family entertainment.
David Lee Gallagher Family
Gallagher is the son of Elena Gallagher and Darren James Gallagher. He is of Cuban descent on his mother’s side and Irish descent on his father’s side. He has four younger siblings, including two brothers and two sisters. His brother Killian was diagnosed with autism at the age of three, which prompted Gallagher to become involved with Autism Speaks as a supporter and spokesperson.
Personal Life
David Lee Gallagher has two children. He previously dated actress Megan Fox from January 2003 to February 2004.