A school bus driver, a teacher, and 22 children found themselves at the heart of one of America’s deadliest wildfires. The Lost Bus, a new movie on Apple TV+, tells their true story of survival from the 2018 Camp Fire in California. The film features an acclaimed cast, including an Oscar winner and his real-life family members. Here is a complete guide to the actors and the real people they portray.
The Heroes at the Heart of the Story
The Lost Bus is based on the non-fiction book Paradise: One Town’s Struggle to Survive an American Wildfire by Lizzie Johnson. It follows the terrifying real-life event where a school bus carrying 22 children had to navigate through the fast-moving Camp Fire. The film is directed by Paul Greengrass, known for his intense, realistic style in movies like Captain Phillips.
The story focuses on the bus driver and a teacher who worked together to get the children to safety. The movie had its world premiere at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival on September 5, 2025. It was released in select theaters on September 19, 2025, and is now available to stream globally on Apple TV+ as of October 3, 2025.
Full List of Cast and Characters
Matthew McConaughey as Kevin McKay
Matthew McConaughey plays the lead role of Kevin McKay, the school bus driver based on the real-life hero. In the film, Kevin is the one responsible for driving the bus and its young passengers through the dangerous flames. McConaughey is an Academy Award-winning actor, known for his roles in Dallas Buyers Club, Interstellar, and The Gentlemen.
America Ferrera as Mary Ludwig
America Ferrera portrays Mary Ludwig, the dedicated school teacher on the bus. Her character is based on the accounts of real teachers who were present, comforting the children and assisting Kevin during the escape. Ferrera is an Emmy Award-winning actress, recognized for her roles in Ugly Betty and her Oscar-nominated performance in Barbie.
Yul Vazquez as Ray Martinez
Yul Vazquez plays Ray Martinez, a Cal Fire division chief. His character is involved in coordinating the firefighting efforts on the ground during the disaster. Vazquez has previously worked with director Paul Greengrass on Captain Phillips and is also known for his roles in Severance and Russian Doll.
Ashlie Atkinson as Ruby
Ashlie Atkinson takes on the role of Ruby, the bus depot dispatcher. Ruby is the vital communication link for Kevin McKay, providing him with critical updates and information as he drives the bus through the fire. Atkinson is known for her roles in BlacKkKlansman and the TV series Mr. Robot.
Levi McConaughey as Shaun McKay
Levi McConaughey, the real-life son of Matthew McConaughey, plays Shaun McKay, Kevin’s son. This marks Levi’s acting debut. He auditioned for the role without initially revealing his famous last name. In the story, Kevin’s desire to return to his son adds a personal layer to his drive for survival.
Kay McConaughey as Sherry McKay
Kay McConaughey, Matthew McConaughey’s real-life mother, plays Sherry McKay, Kevin’s mother. At 93 years old, her inclusion adds a unique generational dynamic to the film. She has previously appeared in the movie Bernie.
Supporting Cast and Real-Life Survivors
The film also features a strong supporting cast that helps expand the story beyond the bus, showing the broader community effort during the fire.
- Kate Wharton as Jen Kissoon, a Cal Fire battalion chief.
- Danny McCarthy as Matt McKenzie, another teacher.
- Spencer Watson as Elliot Hopkins, a responder involved in the fire efforts.
- Nathan Gariety as Toby, in a supporting role.
- Gary Kraus as Sheriff Thomas, the sheriff during the evacuation.
To add authenticity, the film includes cameo appearances from real survivors of the 2018 Camp Fire, who appear as themselves. Their presence creates a direct link between the dramatic film and the actual events that inspired it.
A Personal Touch for Matthew McConaughey
For Matthew McConaughey, this project became a family affair. He shared his thoughts on working with his son and mother.
Matthew McConaughey said: “Just to be in a scene with those two, I never thought that was something that would happen.”
He revealed that he often discusses his roles with his family and that his son Levi was eager to audition once he learned the character had a son.
Also Read: The Lost Bus: The True Story Behind the Movie
