When you watch TV or scroll through social media, it’s hard not to notice the impactful commercials from Shriners Hospitals for Children. Two familiar faces—Alec Cabacungan and Kaleb-Wolf De Melo Torres—have become icons in these emotional and inspiring ads. Their stories are unforgettable, and their appearances spark a common question: Do Alec and Kaleb get paid for commercials?
This article breaks it all down in a clear and thoughtful way—from child actor laws to nonprofit ethics, and even behind-the-scenes industry insights. If you’ve ever wondered how it all works, you’re in the right place.
Do Alec and Kaleb Get Paid for Commercials? Understanding the Basics
Let’s start with the most common version of this question that’s circulating online.
Yes, Alec and Kaleb are likely compensated for their roles in the Shriners Hospitals for Children commercials, but the specifics of their arrangements are not publicly disclosed. However, in the world of advertising, even non-profit organizations often pay child actors, either financially or through support services.
Both boys are considered Patient Ambassadors, which means they represent the organization not only in ads, but also at events, interviews, and media appearances.
They are not just patients. They are the faces of a national brand, and being a brand ambassador—especially for an organization as large and visible as Shriners—comes with responsibilities, protections, and typically, compensation.
Do Alec and Kaleb Get Paid for Commercials 2020: A Look Back at Their Early Appearances
In 2020, the Shriners commercials featuring Alec and Kaleb were widely circulated, with many running multiple times per day across national networks.
That year, interest in their roles surged as people spent more time watching television during the pandemic. According to various talent agents and industry professionals, child actors featured in national spots like these typically receive payment, even if the spot is for a charitable cause.
Industry norms in 2020 would have included:
- Flat day rates or residual payments for recurring commercial airings
- Travel and accommodations paid for by the organization
- Possible long-term ambassador contracts or non-monetary compensation
Though there’s no official financial disclosure, we can safely assume they were fairly compensated, either monetarily or through comprehensive support.
Do Alec and Kaleb Get Paid for Commercials 2021: Continuing the Campaign
The momentum of the campaign continued into 2021, with new commercials airing that featured updated footage of Alec and Kaleb as they grew older.
Many viewers asked again, “Do Alec and Kaleb get paid for commercials in 2021?”
By this point, Alec had become a regular spokesperson, even giving interviews outside of the commercials. That suggests a more formalized relationship with Shriners Hospitals. Kaleb, too, appeared more frequently and with greater involvement in promotional media.
Standard practices for 2021 would have included:
- Ongoing compensation through stipends or fees
- Appearances at live events and fundraisers, which often include honorariums
- Compliance with child labor laws like the Coogan Law, ensuring a portion of earnings go into a trust
So while no public pay figures exist, it’s clear they weren’t just volunteering—they were contributing to a multi-million dollar fundraising effort, and most likely being recognized for it.
Do Alec and Kaleb Get Paid for Commercials? Reddit Users Weigh In
If you’ve searched this question online, you’ve likely come across the Reddit threads asking: “Do Alec and Kaleb get paid for commercials? Reddit wants to know!”
Redditors often speculate on whether these commercials exploit sick children or whether the families are well-compensated. Some users argue it’s unethical if the children aren’t paid, while others assume they’re paid generously due to the visibility of the campaign.
From what we can gather through Reddit discussions and professional insights:
- Most Redditors believe the boys are being compensated
- A few users who claim to have industry ties confirm that Shriners likely pays at least a modest stipend or salary
- The lack of official statements feeds speculation, but no one has presented evidence of exploitation
It’s a hot debate on forums like Reddit, but most people agree that Shriners Hospitals is a reputable organization, and it would be surprising if Alec and Kaleb weren’t compensated fairly.
How Child Actors Like Alec and Kaleb Are Typically Paid in Commercials
Let’s dig deeper into what compensation usually looks like for child actors, especially those in non-profit commercials.
1. SAG-AFTRA Union Rates
If the commercial is unionized, child actors are guaranteed minimum payment standards, often ranging from $500 to $1,200+ per day, plus residuals.
2. Residual Payments
If the commercial airs repeatedly (as Shriners ads do), residuals may be paid per airing or in bulk packages.
3. Non-Monetary Support
For ambassadors like Alec and Kaleb, compensation could also include:
- Medical support
- Educational scholarships
- Paid travel and housing for appearances
4. Legal Protection
Both boys likely have Coogan accounts—trusts required by law in many states to protect a portion of child actor income until they’re adults.
So while we don’t have access to their contracts, we can safely assume they’re not working for free.
Why Do People Ask If Alec and Kaleb Get Paid for Commercials? A Closer Look
The question keeps coming up for a few important reasons:
- The commercials tug at emotions—they feel personal and vulnerable.
- They’re aired by a non-profit, which makes viewers think all participants might be volunteers.
- There’s no public discussion about payment, which leads to speculation.
But here’s the bottom line: whether it’s a non-profit or a Fortune 500 brand, labor is labor—especially when it involves children.
Organizations like Shriners are highly respected and legally bound to ensure fair treatment. If Alec and Kaleb are being featured in long-running commercials and public events, it’s very likely that compensation is involved.
Behind the Scenes: Anecdotes from the Commercial Industry
Let’s look at some real-life examples.
Case 1: A child actor in a national non-profit commercial filmed for one day and was paid $1,200, plus travel expenses. The campaign ran for 6 months, and they received an additional $2,000 in residuals.
Case 2: In another case, a child working with a healthcare non-profit didn’t receive direct payment, but the organization paid for two years of therapy sessions and offered a college scholarship.
These real stories support the idea that compensation can come in many forms—and the form depends on the goals of both the actor and the organization.
How to Become a Child Commercial Actor Like Alec and Kaleb: A Step-by-Step Guide
Interested in getting your child involved in commercials? Here’s how to get started:
Step 1: Get Photos and a Resume
Use natural light, simple clothes, and a clear headshot.
Step 2: Find a Talent Agent
Seek licensed agents who specialize in young performers.
Step 3: Sign Up for Casting Sites
Websites like Casting Networks, Actors Access, and Backstage are great places to start.
Step 4: Prepare for Auditions
Practice scripts, maintain confidence, and focus on personality.
Step 5: Understand the Legal Side
Your child may need:
- A work permit
- A Coogan Trust Account
- Limited working hours (usually 3–6 hours/day max)
Being prepared legally and emotionally is just as important as talent.
Are Alec and Kaleb Considered Actors or Ambassadors?
That’s a great question.
While neither Alec nor Kaleb are traditional actors in TV shows or movies, they’re doing the work of brand ambassadors—sharing their personal stories and representing an organization.
Their consistency, presence, and professionalism qualify them as professional spokespeople, even if their roles are tied to their real-life medical journeys.
And yes—spokespeople, especially ones who appear regularly on national TV, are usually paid.
Conclusion: Do Alec and Kaleb Get Paid for Commercials? Here’s the Final Word
So, do Alec and Kaleb get paid for commercials? Most likely, yes—though their specific compensation details are private.
Based on:
- Common industry practices
- Legal protections for child performers
- The scale and reach of the Shriners campaign
…it’s reasonable to conclude that Alec and Kaleb are compensated fairly for their appearances, time, and efforts.
