The Enduring Legacy Of Beans Even Stevens: What Happened To Steven Anthony Lawrence?

Sienna Stiedemann Jr. 08 Jun 2025

**For a generation of Disney Channel viewers, the name "Beans" instantly conjures images of a bacon-loving, often annoying yet undeniably memorable neighbor from the hit series *Even Stevens*. This character, expertly brought to life by actor Steven Anthony Lawrence, became an iconic part of early 2000s television, embedding himself in the collective memory of countless young fans.** But beyond the antics of the Stevens family's quirky neighbor, lies the real-life story of the child actor who played him – a journey filled with early fame, unexpected challenges, and a remarkable transformation. The character of Beans Aranguren, with his signature love for bacon and his knack for appearing at the most inconvenient times, was a scene-stealer. He was the lovable neighbor boy who was obsessed with bacon, a comedic foil to Louis Stevens' schemes and Ren's organized life. While the show itself was a cornerstone of Disney Channel's programming, it was often the smaller, more eccentric characters like Beans that truly left a lasting impression. Today, we delve into the life and career of Steven Anthony Lawrence, the man behind the legendary *Beans Even Stevens*, exploring his rise to fame, his struggles after the show, and what he's doing now, almost two decades later. *** **Table of Contents** * [The Unforgettable "Beans Even Stevens" Character](#the-unforgettable-beans-even-stevens-character) * [Steven Anthony Lawrence: The Man Behind "Beans"](#steven-anthony-lawrence-the-man-behind-beans) * [Early Life and Career Beginnings](#early-life-and-career-beginnings) * [The Audition That Changed Everything](#the-audition-that-changed-everything) * [Even Stevens: A Disney Channel Phenomenon](#even-stevens-a-disney-channel-phenomenon) * [Life After "Even Stevens": Challenges and Transformations](#life-after-even-stevens-challenges-and-transformations) * [Navigating Financial Struggles and Personal Loss](#navigating-financial-struggles-and-personal-loss) * [Steven Anthony Lawrence Today: A New Chapter](#steven-anthony-lawrence-today-a-new-chapter) * [From Acting to Academia and Podcasting](#from-acting-to-academia-and-podcasting) * [Personal Data and Net Worth of Steven Anthony Lawrence](#personal-data-and-net-worth-of-steven-anthony-lawrence) * [The Enduring Legacy of "Beans Even Stevens"](#the-enduring-legacy-of-beans-even-stevens) * [Conclusion](#conclusion) *** ## The Unforgettable "Beans Even Stevens" Character If you were a fan of the Disney Channel's *Even Stevens* growing up, chances are Beans was one of your favorite characters. His peculiar habits, uninvited appearances, and unwavering devotion to bacon made him a comedic highlight in nearly every episode he graced. Bernard "Beans" Aranguren wasn't just a side character; he was a force of nature, often inadvertently complicating Louis Stevens' elaborate schemes or simply providing moments of pure, unadulterated absurdity. His presence was so distinct that even years after the show concluded, the mention of "Beans from *Even Stevens*" immediately brings a smile to the faces of those who remember him. The character's appeal lay in his childlike innocence mixed with an uncanny ability to be both irritating and endearing. He was the embodiment of that one neighbor kid who just *always* seemed to be around, raiding your fridge or offering unsolicited (and usually unhelpful) advice. This unique blend of traits made Beans an unforgettable part of the *Even Stevens* universe, contributing significantly to the show's lasting charm and comedic success. ## Steven Anthony Lawrence: The Man Behind "Beans" While the character of Beans is etched into pop culture history, the actor who portrayed him, Steven Anthony Lawrence, has a much deeper and more complex story. Steven Anthony Lawrence is an American actor who played Bernard "Beans" Aranguren in the Disney Channel series *Even Stevens*. His portrayal was so convincing that for many, he *was* Beans, a testament to his early acting prowess. However, unlike many child stars who fade into obscurity or remain solely defined by their breakout role, Lawrence's journey has been one of continuous evolution, marked by both personal challenges and inspiring transformations. Learning about the life and career of Steven Anthony Lawrence, who starred as Beans in the Disney series *Even Stevens*, reveals a narrative far richer than just his most famous character. It's a story of navigating the choppy waters of child stardom, dealing with personal adversity, and ultimately forging a new path in life. ## Early Life and Career Beginnings Steven Anthony Lawrence was born on July 19, 1990, in Fresno, California, USA. His entry into the entertainment world began at a remarkably young age. He began his acting career at age 6 on various television series, quickly demonstrating a natural aptitude for performance. Before landing his breakout role on *Even Stevens*, Lawrence had already started building a respectable resume. His other credits include roles on *Married... with Children* and *The Amanda Show*, showcasing his versatility even as a young performer. He has amassed over 30 acting credits throughout his career, which began when he was a kid, indicating a consistent presence in Hollywood before and after his Disney fame. This early exposure to the industry undoubtedly shaped his formative years, preparing him for the intense spotlight that would soon follow with *Even Stevens*. His ability to transition between different comedic roles on various popular shows highlighted his talent and adaptability, making him a sought-after young actor in the late 1990s. ### The Audition That Changed Everything The story of how Steven Anthony Lawrence landed the role of Beans is a classic tale of a child actor finding their perfect fit. Learn about his audition, which, according to Lawrence himself, was less about traditional acting and more about embodying the character's unique essence. Such is the story of Steven Anthony Lawrence, who landed the role of Beans on the Disney Channel sitcom *Even Stevens* (currently, a hidden gem on Disney+) when he was about nine years old. His natural comedic timing and quirky demeanor perfectly aligned with the character of Beans, making him an instant standout during the casting process. It wasn't just about delivering lines; it was about capturing the spirit of a character that would become synonymous with the show's irreverent humor. This role would not only define a significant portion of his childhood but also set the stage for the rest of his public life, intertwining his identity with the beloved *Beans Even Stevens* character for years to come. ## Even Stevens: A Disney Channel Phenomenon To truly appreciate the impact of Steven Anthony Lawrence's role, one must understand the cultural significance of *Even Stevens* itself. *Even Stevens* is an American comedy television series produced by Brookwell McNamara Entertainment that originally aired on Disney Channel from June 17, 2000, to June 2, 2003, airing a total of 65 episodes spanning three seasons. The show quickly became a flagship program for the network, known for its witty humor, relatable family dynamics, and the undeniable chemistry between its lead actors. The series centered on the Stevens family, who live in Sacramento, California, where the two younger children in the family, Ren and Louis, who have opposing personalities, often clash. Ren, played by Christy Carlson Romano, was the overachieving, perfectionist older sister, while Louis, played by Shia LaBeouf, was the mischievous, scheme-prone younger brother. Steven Anthony Lawrence portrayed the iconic character Beans in the hit series 'Even Stevens,' alongside Shia LaBeouf and Christy Carlson Romano, forming a memorable trio of characters that anchored the show's comedic narrative. The dynamic between Louis and Beans, often involving Louis using Beans to get to his cousin and then starting to feel guilty, provided endless comedic opportunities and showcased Lawrence's ability to hold his own alongside more experienced young actors. With Shia LaBeouf, Christy Carlson Romano, Nick Spano, and Tom Virtue, the show built a strong ensemble cast that contributed to its widespread appeal and enduring popularity. The show's success cemented its place in Disney Channel history, and with it, the character of Beans became a household name for young viewers across America. The series not only launched the careers of its young stars but also created a lasting legacy of family-friendly comedy that continues to resonate with audiences through streaming platforms like Disney+. ## Life After "Even Stevens": Challenges and Transformations When *Even Stevens* concluded in 2003, many wondered, "What happened to Beans from *Even Stevens*?" For some child stars, the transition from constant limelight to relative normalcy can be challenging. This is what happened to the 'Even Stevens' star, Steven Anthony Lawrence. Unlike Shia LaBeouf, who continued to act after the show ended in 2003 and achieved significant mainstream success, Lawrence's path took a different turn, marked by personal struggles and a significant transformation. Steven Anthony Lawrence, who played Beans on *Even Stevens*, has openly talked to Vice about his career, family, and baldness, shedding light on the less glamorous aspects of life after child stardom. One of the most striking personal challenges he faced was hair loss. Lawrence began losing his hair at the age of 14, which may have contributed to a decline in his acting opportunities. At around 14 years old, he began to suffer from alopecia universalis, a condition that causes hair loss on the entire body. This physical transformation, occurring during his formative teenage years, undoubtedly impacted his self-perception and career trajectory. Furthermore, his post-show life saw him navigating various unexpected paths. Find out how he went from a child star to a mall worker, a surprising turn for someone who had been on national television. This period of his life speaks volumes about the realities of the entertainment industry and the often-unpredictable nature of a child actor's career. ### Navigating Financial Struggles and Personal Loss Beyond the public eye, Steven Anthony Lawrence also faced significant personal hardships. Learn about his audition, financial struggles, and life after the show, which included navigating the complexities of managing money earned as a child actor. The financial stability often associated with child stardom can be fleeting, and many young performers find themselves unprepared for the economic realities of adulthood. Lawrence's experience highlights the importance of proper financial guidance for child actors and their families. Perhaps even more profoundly, he coped with losing his parents to cancer. This immense personal tragedy, occurring during a period of professional transition, added another layer of complexity to his journey. Dealing with such profound loss while also trying to forge a new identity beyond his famous role speaks to Lawrence's resilience and strength of character. These challenges, though difficult, have undoubtedly shaped the man he is today, contributing to his unique perspective and empathetic approach to his current endeavors. ## Steven Anthony Lawrence Today: A New Chapter Almost two decades after *Even Stevens* first aired, Steven Anthony Lawrence has shocked fans with his transformation. No longer just "Beans from *Even Stevens*," he has embraced new roles and responsibilities that extend far beyond acting. These days, Steven Anthony Lawrence is primarily known for two things: playing Beans on Disney Channel’s *Even Stevens* and, unfortunately, being the butt of the joke when Tyler the Creator used his image in a meme. However, his current life is far more multifaceted and inspiring than a mere internet meme suggests. Steven Anthony Lawrence, who played Beans on the Disney Channel sitcom, has moved on from acting to teaching and hosting a talk show. This pivot showcases a remarkable adaptability and a desire to contribute in different capacities. Here's what Steven Anthony Lawrence is really doing now, demonstrating a commitment to education, public discourse, and even political engagement. ### From Acting to Academia and Podcasting Lawrence's journey into teaching is particularly noteworthy. It reflects a desire to impart knowledge and connect with younger generations in a meaningful way, far removed from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. This shift suggests a mature perspective and a focus on building a sustainable, impactful career outside of the entertainment industry. In addition to teaching, Lawrence has also ventured into the world of podcasting. Beans from *Even Stevens* has a political podcast, offering his insights and perspectives on current events. This move into hosting a talk show and engaging in political discourse demonstrates a keen interest in broader societal issues and a willingness to use his platform, however big or small, to discuss topics he cares about. It's a testament to his intellectual curiosity and his evolution from a character known for his love of bacon to an individual engaging in serious conversations. Interestingly, he was also spotted as a Santa's helper, indicating a willingness to take on diverse roles and connect with people in various community settings. ### Personal Data and Net Worth of Steven Anthony Lawrence For those curious about the man behind the iconic character, here's a snapshot of Steven Anthony Lawrence's personal data and some insights into his professional life: | Category | Detail