60 Years After ‘The Sound of Music,’ the Beloved Child Stars Share Their Favorite Behind-the-Scenes Memories, Heartfelt Bonds, and Mischievous Pranks
It’s hard to believe it’s been six decades since Julie Andrews first sang on those rolling Austrian hills, but for the child actors who brought the von Trapp kids to life, those moments remain as vivid as ever. As The Sound of Music turns 60, the surviving young stars — Nicholas Hammond, Debbie Turner, Duane Chase, Kym Karath, and Angela Cartwright — are looking back on what they call the most unforgettable chapter of their lives.
The film, released in 1965, became more than a Hollywood hit. It turned into a piece of cinematic history, the kind of story that families passed down like an heirloom. Its songs — “Do-Re-Mi,” “My Favorite Things,” and “So Long, Farewell” — are as recognizable today as they were then. But for the actors who played the von Trapp children, the real magic happened when the cameras weren’t rolling.
In their conversation with People, the cast shared a flood of memories — from practical jokes on set to heartwarming moments with Julie Andrews, whom they still affectionately call “Mama.” Angela Cartwright, who played Brigitta, laughed as she recalled how playful Andrews was between takes. “She wasn’t just our movie mom,” she said. “She was really looking out for us. She taught us professionalism but also how to have fun.”
Duane Chase, who played Kurt, added that they were “a handful of kids” on a massive production — and that led to a few mischievous moments. One of their favorite stories involves sneaking into the backlot pond and getting caught covered in mud moments before filming. “The crew wasn’t thrilled,” Nicholas Hammond joked, “but Julie just laughed. She said it was exactly what real kids would do.”
Hammond, who played Friedrich, has often spoken about how The Sound of Music changed his life. He remembers the camaraderie that grew among the young cast members — friendships that have lasted a lifetime. “It was an extraordinary experience,” he said. “We were in this beautiful setting, surrounded by mountains, music, and the most wonderful people. It felt like being part of a real family.”
That family feeling never faded. In the years since, the cast has reunited many times, from talk shows to anniversary specials, always slipping back into the same easy bond they had as children. Debbie Turner, who played Marta, says those reunions are emotional but joyful. “We all went our separate ways in life, but when we come together, it’s like no time has passed. We start talking and laughing like we’re back on set again.”
For Kym Karath, who was only 6 when she played little Gretl, the youngest von Trapp, one memory stands out: nearly falling into the lake during the famous boat scene. “Julie saved me from drifting too far,” she recalled. “She was my hero then — and she still is.”
The actors say they remain amazed that a film made in another era continues to touch new generations. “It’s timeless,” Cartwright said. “It’s about family, courage, and love — all the things that never go out of style.”
As The Sound of Music marks its 60th anniversary, its child stars remind fans that behind the polished musical numbers and breathtaking scenery were kids just being kids — laughing, playing, and growing up together under the watchful eye of a woman who embodied grace both on and off the screen. “We didn’t know then how much it would mean to people,” Hammond said. “We just knew it felt special. And now, 60 years later, we understand why.”
