Revisiting an Indie Classic
Nearly 20 years after Little Miss Sunshine became one of the defining indie films of the 2000s, Greg Kinnear is reflecting on the movie’s lasting cultural impact and the iconic yellow Volkswagen bus that fans still obsess over today.
Speaking with Entertainment Tonight correspondent Emily Curl at the premiere of Margo’s Got Money Troubles, Kinnear reminisced about filming the road-trip comedy ahead of its upcoming 20th anniversary. During the conversation, the actor was asked the question longtime fans still wonder about: did he ever buy the famous bus from the movie?
While Kinnear did not confirm owning the vehicle, the discussion reignited nostalgia surrounding the battered yellow van that became one of the most recognizable parts of the film. In Little Miss Sunshine, the constantly malfunctioning bus forced the dysfunctional Hoover family to work together every time it stalled, turning the vehicle into a symbol of chaos, resilience, and family unity.
The Legacy of ‘Little Miss Sunshine’
Released in 2006, Little Miss Sunshine became a breakout independent film success, earning widespread acclaim for its dark humor, emotional storytelling, and unconventional family dynamic. The movie went on to receive four Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, and won Oscars for Best Original Screenplay and Best Supporting Actor.
Kinnear’s performance as Richard Hoover, an overly optimistic motivational speaker struggling to keep his family together, became one of the standout roles of his career. The film also featured acclaimed performances from Steve Carell, Toni Collette, Abigail Breslin, Paul Dano, and Alan Arkin.
Over the years, the movie has remained a fan favorite because of its honest portrayal of failure, ambition, and imperfect family relationships. Its themes continue resonating with audiences long after its original release.
New Project Brings Hollywood Veterans Together
Kinnear also used the premiere event to discuss his latest television project, Margo’s Got Money Troubles, created by acclaimed producer David E. Kelley.
The actor spoke about sharing the screen for the first time with Michelle Pfeiffer, calling the experience especially meaningful given both actors’ long Hollywood careers. The series also stars Elle Fanning and Nick Offerman, creating a high-profile ensemble cast that has already generated significant attention ahead of the show’s debut.
Based on the novel of the same name, the series follows a young mother navigating financial struggles, internet fame, and family complications. The show premieres April 15 on Apple TV+.
Fans Still Love the Bus
Even after two decades, the Little Miss Sunshine bus continues to hold a strange and beloved place in movie history. For many viewers, the vehicle represented more than transportation. It became the physical embodiment of the Hoover family’s dysfunction and determination to keep moving forward despite constant setbacks.
Whether Kinnear ever bought the bus or not, one thing remains clear: the film’s legacy is still very much alive.
