Do Alec and Kaleb Get Paid for Commercials? The Truth Behind Their Fame

Introduction: Why Everyone Asks if Alec and Kaleb Get Paid for Commercials

If you’ve seen a St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital commercial, chances are you’ve met Alec and Kaleb. Their bright smiles, heartwarming personalities, and powerful stories have touched millions of viewers across the U.S., UK, and Canada. But with fame comes curiosity. The most common question that pops up online is: do Alec and Kaleb get paid for commercials?

In this deep dive, we’ll explore their journey, answer that pressing question, and look at the larger impact they’ve had on fundraising, advertising, and viewers worldwide.

Who Are Alec and Kaleb?

Before we answer the money question, it’s worth knowing who these remarkable young men are.

• Alec Cabacungan: Born with brittle bone disease (osteogenesis imperfecta), Alec has become a recognizable face of St. Jude’s campaigns. His charisma, humor, and resilience have made him a beloved spokesperson.
• Kaleb Wolf De Melo Torres: Kaleb also battles health challenges and has been featured in commercials alongside Alec. His charm and positivity inspire countless families.

Together, they represent hope and strength — two qualities that make St. Jude’s message resonate so deeply.

The Big Question: Do Alec and Kaleb Get Paid for Commercials?

The Official St. Jude’s Position

According to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, children and families who appear in commercials are not “actors” in the traditional sense. Their participation is voluntary and designed to share real stories of how St. Jude has impacted their lives.

That means Alec and Kaleb are not paid in the way traditional commercial actors are. Instead, their involvement is part of St. Jude’s mission to raise awareness and funds.

So, Do They Receive Anything?

While they don’t earn salaries or commercial fees, families often receive support in other ways:

• Travel and expenses are typically covered by the organization.
• Medical care at St. Jude is provided free of charge to all patients, thanks to donations.
• The exposure gives Alec and Kaleb a platform to become advocates, speakers, and public figures, opening other doors for opportunities.

Why People Wonder About Alec and Kaleb’s Payment

The curiosity about payment isn’t random. Here’s why people ask:

1. They’re on TV constantly. Commercial actors are usually compensated, so viewers assume the same applies.
2. They’ve become household names. With visibility comes assumptions of financial gain.
3. Social media speculation. Online discussions, particularly on Reddit and TikTok, fuel curiosity about whether these inspiring kids are being “exploited” or “fairly compensated.”

The Greater Impact of Alec and Kaleb’s Commercials

Fundraising Powerhouses

St. Jude reports record-breaking donations tied to these commercials. Alec and Kaleb’s appearances humanize the cause, reminding viewers exactly where their money goes.

Public Awareness

Before these commercials, many people didn’t fully understand St. Jude’s mission. Alec and Kaleb changed that, putting a face to the fight against childhood disease.

Representation of Strength

Their stories are not just about illness — they’re about resilience, positivity, and hope. That emotional appeal has an impact far beyond monetary value.

The Ethics: Should Alec and Kaleb Be Paid?

This sparks debate:

• In Favor of Payment:
  • They’re doing advertising work, so compensation seems fair.
  • Their fame generates millions in donations.
• Against Payment:
  • St. Jude’s commercials are about storytelling, not acting.
  • All funds should go directly to research and care.

Most experts agree that the boys’ families benefit significantly through medical care, visibility, and advocacy opportunities — even without direct commercial paychecks.

Life Beyond Commercials: What Alec and Kaleb Do Today

Both Alec and Kaleb have expanded their reach:

• Alec appears on talk shows, sports programs, and public speaking events, often as an ambassador for disability advocacy.
• Kaleb continues to represent St. Jude in newer campaigns while growing his presence on social platforms.

These opportunities showcase how their roles have grown beyond commercials, making them inspirational figures in their own right.

FAQs: Clearing Up the Confusion

Q: Do Alec and Kaleb get paid like actors in commercials?
A: No. They participate as real patients sharing their stories, not as hired actors.

Q: Does St. Jude cover their expenses?
A: Yes, travel and related costs are typically covered.

Q: How do they benefit from being in commercials?
A: They gain exposure, advocacy opportunities, and free medical treatment at St. Jude.

Q: Do Alec and Kaleb still appear in commercials in 2025?
A: Yes, both continue to be featured and remain beloved faces of the campaign.

Conclusion: More Than Just Commercial Faces

So, do Alec and Kaleb get paid for commercials? The answer is no — at least not in the traditional sense. Instead, they gain support, visibility, and a platform that has transformed them into national symbols of courage and hope.

Their work reminds us that sometimes the most powerful commercials aren’t about selling a product — they’re about inspiring humanity to give, care, and believe in a better future.