Editor’s note: Dylan Hoffman gave this interview in September of 2022.

Whether you’ve been keeping tabs on Netflix or if you heard through social media, Sammi Cohen directed the new Netflix movie,  “You Are SO Not Invited To My Bat Mitzvah,” starring Adam Sandler and Idina Menzel. Niles West sophomore Dylan Hoffman also stars in this new film. The film is about two best friends who’ve always dreamed about having epic bat mitzvahs, but a popular boy, played by Hoffman, and middle school drama threaten their friendship.

Hoffman has been acting for six years, following in his mother’s footsteps, as she also worked in the industry. He remembers his first acting role when he was less than 10 years old.

“My first gig was a little commercial in Wisconsin. It was for some health clinic and it was through a casting director local in Chicago. It was something that I signed up for online because my mom knew what she was doing. It was some hospital commercial about skateboarding and it was really fun. I thought I was a big shot back then, but looking back at it now it was definitely a good experience,” Hoffman said. 

He recalls the feeling of being selected to be part of the cast for his upcoming movie, as it is a huge jump into his career from the local commercials.

“It’s always a great feeling once you get something like that because you are putting in all the hard work like auditioning, callbacks, meeting with executives, talking to people, and getting your character all put together that they want to see. After doing all that hard work and finally getting that, it’s very relieving but it feels really good,” Hoffman said.

Actress Dylan Dash, who stars in the film with Hoffman, shared her thoughts about him and this new chapter in his life.

“Dylan Hoffman is one of the MVPs of the next generation of actors. I am excited to follow his journey and see how far his hard work takes him. I am beyond proud thus far,” Dash said.

In addition to acting, Hoffman also plays football. His passion for the sport keeps him busy and helps him connect with many people.

“I love football. It’s truly the only real sense of community and brotherhood I’ve ever felt or had. I started playing freshman year going into it not sure what to expect, but it ended up being one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Coach Torresso and the current senior class basically built the program from the ground up, and I am humbled and grateful to be a part of what I think is the best group of young men in this building. Football for me isn’t just about the game, it’s about so much more than that,” Hoffman said.

Sophomore Yusuf Hashlamoun, a close friend of Hoffman’s, describes the connection that they started as a result of football.

“I just met Dylan last year mainly from football, and it didn’t take us long to get close. Dylan is a hardworking young man. We have similar interests and like to push each other to do our best. He is very charismatic and does his best at whatever he has to do. Dylan is a very likable person who you can click with very well,” Hashlamoun said.

Hoffman has goals that he wants to achieve as he continues his acting career. By setting these goals, he aims for success and hopefully international fame.

“My goal is to continue acting throughout my career. Hopefully, make it big. The movie I just did was definitely my big break, but my goal is to continue acting and continue it as a career. I want to get very successful and just make people know my name,” Hoffman said.

Watch “You Are SO Not Invited To My Bat Mitzvah,” now on Netflix to see Niles West’s rising celebrity.