David Clayton Henrie Bio
David Clayton Henrie (born July 11, 1989) is an American actor, writer, and director known for his work in film and television. He gained widespread recognition for his role as Justin Russo in the Disney Channel Original Series Wizards of Waverly Place and its sequel Wizards Beyond Waverly Place. Henrie has also appeared in numerous television programs and films throughout his career, including Little Boy, Walt Before Mickey, and the popular sitcom How I Met Your Mother, where he played Ted Mosby’s future son Luke. In addition to his acting work, Henrie has established himself as a filmmaker, writing and directing several projects including the short films Boo! and Catch and the feature film This Is the Year.
Early Life and Background
David Clayton Henrie was born on July 11, 1989, in Mission Viejo, California, to Linda Henrie (née Finocchiaro) and James Wilson Henrie. His mother worked as a talent manager, while his father was formerly involved in real estate. Henrie is of Italian descent through his maternal grandparents. He is the older brother of actor Lorenzo James Henrie. Raised Catholic, Henrie grew up in Phoenix, Arizona, where he spent his formative years before pursuing an entertainment career.
Path to Acting
Henrie began his professional acting career at the age of 13 when he landed a regular role as Petey Pitt on the Fox sitcom The Pitts. This early opportunity provided him with valuable experience in television production and helped launch his career in the entertainment industry. Following his work on The Pitts, Henrie continued to build his resume with leading roles in Hallmark movies, including Monster Makers alongside Linda Blair and George Kennedy, as well as appearances in Dead Hollywood Moms Society.
He subsequently appeared in the Fox sitcom Method & Red, playing the character Skylar Blaford. During this period, Henrie also expanded his television experience through guest appearances in numerous popular shows, including Providence, Without a Trace, Judging Amy, The D.A., Jack & Bobby, NCIS, House, and Cold Case. Before securing his breakthrough role, he had a recurring role on That’s So Raven as Cory’s friend Larry.
David Clayton Henrie Career
Early Career (2002–2006)
Henrie began his professional career in 2002 and quickly accumulated diverse acting experience through guest roles and supporting parts in television. His early work included regular appearances in sitcoms and Hallmark productions, establishing him as a reliable young performer in the industry. The years spent building his craft through varied roles prepared him for the significant opportunities that would follow.
Breakthrough (2007–2014)
At age 18, Henrie secured the pivotal role of Justin Russo in the Disney Channel Original Series Wizards of Waverly Place. The show premiered on October 12, 2007, and quickly became one of the network’s most popular series. Henrie portrayed Justin Vincenzo Pepé Russo throughout the entire run of the show, which became a defining role in his career. He also appeared in the Wizards of Waverly Place: The Movie in 2009, continuing his work with the series cast.
During this period, Henrie balanced his Wizards of Waverly Place commitments with guest appearances in various productions. He starred in the Disney Channel Original Movie Dadnapped alongside Emily Osment, made cameo appearances in the series Jonas, and voiced characters in other projects. In 2013, he appeared in Grown Ups 2 opposite Taylor Lautner and Adam Sandler. By 2014, Henrie had begun expanding into filmmaking, directing the short films Boo! and Catch.
Notable Works and Milestones
Henrie’s role in Wizards of Waverly Place stands as his most prominent career achievement, earning him recognition with the cast for their ensemble performances. The series ran for multiple seasons and spawned a film adaptation and spin-off. Henrie also contributed writing to the show, penning episodes including “Alex’s Logo” and the series special “Meet the Werewolves.” His work on the series established him as a versatile performer capable of both comedic and dramatic roles.
Continued Work (2015–Present)
In 2015, Henrie demonstrated his range by appearing in multiple film projects. He played Lane, a valet who falls for Paul Blart’s daughter, in Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2. He also co-starred as London Busbee, the older brother of the title character, in the drama Little Boy, and portrayed Rudy Ising in the biographical drama Walt Before Mickey, which depicted the early life of Walt Disney.
In 2018, Henrie took on a new challenge as director, writer, and star of the coming-of-age film This Is the Year. His Wizards of Waverly Place co-star Selena Gomez served as executive producer on the project, and the film held its virtual premiere in August 2020. In 2023, Henrie played the role of Ted in the Tubi original series Underdeveloped.
David Clayton Henrie Personal Life
Henrie married former Miss Delaware 2011 Maria Cahill in April 2017. The couple has three children together: a daughter born in March 2019, a son born in December 2020, and another daughter born in July 2022. Henrie is a practicing Catholic and appears on the American Catholic meditation and prayer app Hallow.
In September 2018, Henrie was arrested at Los Angeles International Airport on allegations of carrying a loaded firearm. He released a statement apologizing for the incident, noting the gun was legally purchased and the act was unintentional. He was subsequently charged with three counts related to firearms possession and pled no contest to one charge, receiving two years probation.
As of 2026, Henrie serves as the host of the EWTN original series Seeking Beauty, with the first six episodes airing between January and February 2026.