The Parent Trap (1961)

Last Updated on: January 20th, 2024

Here is everything you need to know about the amazing movie The Parent Trap (1961) including casting, reviews, fun facts and more. I hope you find this listing informative and helpful!

The Parent Trap (1961) Description

The Parent Trap 1961

“The Parent Trap” is a classic family comedy film released in 1961, directed by David Swift and produced by Walt Disney Productions. It stars Hayley Mills in a dual role, playing identical twin sisters Sharon McKendrick and Susan Evers.

The story revolves around Sharon and Susan, who meet at a summer camp and discover that they are long-lost twin sisters separated at birth when their parents, Margaret Carey (played by Maureen O’Hara) and Mitch Evers (played by Brian Keith), divorced. Excited to meet each other, the twins decide to switch places and reunite their estranged parents, who are unaware of each other’s existence.

As they carry out their plan, the twins face various humorous and challenging situations, attempting to bring their family back together. They also work to thwart the attempts of their father’s new girlfriend, Vicky Robinson (played by Joanna Barnes), to marry him.

“The Parent Trap” is a heartwarming and charming film that captivated audiences with its engaging story and adorable performances by Hayley Mills. The film’s success cemented Mills’ status as a child star and earned her a special Academy Juvenile Award for her exceptional acting.

The movie was well-received by both critics and audiences and became one of Disney’s most beloved and enduring classics. It is known for its iconic scenes, memorable quotes, and the theme song “Let’s Get Together,” performed by Hayley Mills. The film’s portrayal of family love, reconciliation, and the importance of communication resonated with viewers of all ages.

“The Parent Trap” has been remade several times over the years, but the 1961 version remains the most cherished and celebrated among fans. Its legacy as a heartwarming and timeless family film continues to endure, making it a beloved part of Disney’s cinematic history.



The Parent Trap (1961) Fun Facts

  • The movie was remade in 1998 and starred Lindsay Lohan.
  • The movie was the 6th biggest film of 1961.


The Parent Trap (1961) Cast
  • Hayley Mills: Sharon McKendrick/Susan Evers
  • Brian Keith: Mitchell “Mitch” Evers
  • Maureen O’Hara: Margaret “Maggie” McKendrick
  • Joanna Barnes: Vicky Robinson
  • Charlie Ruggles: Charles McKendrick
  • Cathleen Nesbitt: Louise McKendrick
  • Una Merkel: Verbena the housekeeper
  • Leo G. Carroll: Reverend Dr. Mosby
  • Linda Watkins: Edna Robinson
  • Ruth McDevitt: Miss Abbey Inch
  • Crahan Denton: Hecky the ranch foreman
  • Nancy Kulp: Miss Grunecker
  • Frank De Vol: Mr. Eaglewood


The Parent Trap (1961) Crew
  • Director: David Swift
  • Producer: Walt Disney and George Golitzen
  • Music: Paul Smith, Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman




Additional Details

  • Movie Studio:
  • Year Released: 1961
  • Type of Movie: Live-Action
  • Box Office: $25.1 million
  • Awards: Nominated Academy Award
  • IMDB Link

The Parent Trap (1961) Trailer:




Related Song(s):


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About the Author

Craig Smith
I am founder and editor of DisneyNews.us. My passion for all things Disney goes pretty far back to my first trip to Walt Disney World in the mid-80's. I have since returned to the magical place more than 20 times. I started this site when I came to the realization that I spent a significant portion of my day reading articles about Disney and watching Disney content with my 8-year old, so it made sense that I would start sharing some of what I read and see and building a little community around it. Other interests include 80's nostalgia, vintage toys, video games, LEGO, Star Wars and tech gadgets. Other sites include DMR and VideoGamesStats.com.