Atticus Shaffer: From "The Middle" To Voice Acting & Beyond

Allie Hintz 21 May 2025

Can a young actor, facing significant physical challenges, not only achieve success in Hollywood but also become a beloved figure for millions? The remarkable journey of Atticus Shaffer, a name synonymous with the role of Brick Heck on the hit sitcom "The Middle," proves that resilience, talent, and unwavering spirit can triumph over adversity.

Born in Santa Clarita, California, on June 19, 1998, Atticus Ronald Shaffer has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with his portrayal of Brick Heck, the youngest of the Heck siblings. Beyond his acting prowess, Shaffer's life is a testament to overcoming challenges. He navigates the world with osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), a genetic disorder that affects bone development, a condition also known as brittle bone disease. Despite these physical limitations, Shaffer has carved out a successful career as an actor, voice artist, and content creator.

Attribute	Details
Full Name	Atticus Ronald Shaffer
Date of Birth	June 19, 1998
Place of Birth	Santa Clarita, California, USA
Nationality	American
Known For	Brick Heck in "The Middle," Voice of Ono in "The Lion Guard"
Other Talents	Voice Artist, YouTuber, Gamer, Podcaster
Physical Condition	Osteogenesis Imperfecta (Type IV)
Parents	Ron Shaffer (Father), Debbie Shaffer (Mother)
Current Residence	Los Angeles, California
Descent	Italian, Polish, German, Swiss, French, English
Faith	Christian
Marital Status	Happily married to Elizabeth.
Reference	IMDb

Shaffer's journey began in Santa Clarita, California, where he was born to parents Ron and Debbie Shaffer. He was named after the iconic character Atticus Finch from the novel "To Kill a Mockingbird," a testament to his parents' appreciation for strong moral character. Living in Los Angeles with his parents, Shaffer has consistently demonstrated a strong family bond, which has played a crucial role in his upbringing and career.

The young actor's early life, shaped by his genetic condition, required him to receive home schooling. This did not deter him from pursuing his passion for acting. His career began in 2006 when he was discovered by his manager. Within a year, in 2007, he started to make his mark with minor roles in television series such as "The Class" and "Days of Our Lives."

Shaffer's breakout role came in 2009 when he was cast as Brick Heck in "The Middle." The show, which aired on ABC from 2009 to 2018, was a significant success, and Shaffer's portrayal of the quirky, bookish Brick resonated with audiences of all ages. For nine seasons, viewers watched him grow up alongside his character, experiencing the joys and challenges of adolescence. The role of Brick Heck was a turning point, it provided a platform for Shaffer to display his acting ability and gain widespread recognition. The characters unique traits, from his whispered asides to his love of reading and his social awkwardness, made him a memorable character.

The camera work of "The Middle" rarely features Atticus Shaffer walking, which is directly attributed to his medical condition that affects his ability to walk. He embraces this reality, with the support of his family. By the time "The Middle" concluded, the cast had become household names across America.

Beyond "The Middle," Shaffer has also found success in voice acting. He is known for voicing Ono in the animated series "The Lion Guard," and has lent his voice to other characters in various animated projects, showcasing his versatility as a performer. These voice acting roles highlight his talent and ability to connect with audiences through his vocal performances.

Shaffer's faith is an important aspect of his life, as he identifies as a devout Christian, and enjoys many nerdy hobbies, including video games and storytelling. His desire to become a content creator on YouTube and Twitch illustrates his aspiration to engage with his fans and share his passions in new ways.

His rare genetic disorder, osteogenesis imperfecta, or brittle bone disease, has undoubtedly presented him with physical challenges. However, Shaffer has overcome these hurdles, receiving support from his family and undergoing surgeries to manage his condition. His openness in discussing his struggles and triumphs inspires many.

Shaffer's career has included roles in movies such as "Leaving Barstow" in 2008 where he was "Garon dans le bus," "Hancock: Un jeune enfant", "An American Carol," where he played Timm/Atticus and "Unborn" in 2009, the diverse range of projects testifies to his ability as an actor.

His journey continues to evolve, with upcoming projects as a gamer and podcaster. His story continues to inspire those who face their own obstacles, while demonstrating the ability to achieve in different areas.

Atticus Shaffer's life and career tell a compelling story, a testament to the power of talent, perseverance, and the unwavering support of family. He is not just an actor; he is a role model.