Kaleb-Wolf De Melo Torres and Alec Cabacungan have become two of the most recognizable faces associated with Shriners Hospitals for Children. Through heartfelt commercials and public appearances, they’ve brought national attention to the organization’s mission of providing medical care to children, regardless of financial circumstances. Their presence in the media has sparked a recurring question online: Do Alec and Kaleb get paid for commercials? This article examines their roles, compensation, and ongoing work in 2025, as well as the impact of Shriners Hospital on their lives.
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Alec Cabacungan was born in 2002 in Oak Park, Illinois. Diagnosed with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (brittle bone disease), Alec has suffered more than 60 bone fractures. He became a patient at Shriners when he was just two months old and has since undergone multiple surgeries. Despite these obstacles, Alec earned his degree in Sports Broadcasting from Northwestern University in 2024 and aspires to work as a professional sports commentator.
Kaleb-Wolf De Melo Torres was born in 2009 in Winnipeg, Canada, and has a similar medical history. They both have Osteogenesis Imperfecta and has experienced over 200 fractures and undergone 11 surgeries. Kaleb continues to receive treatment at Shriners and is widely appreciated for his vibrant and positive attitude, often featured in Shriners commercials.
It’s widely accepted that Alec and Kaleb receive financial compensation for their roles in Shriners commercials. While exact figures are not publicly disclosed, child actors typically earn between $100 to $500 per day for commercial work, with additional earnings from residuals if the content is replayed on various platforms.
Given Alec and Kaleb’s consistent presence across national TV, online media, and promotional campaigns, their pay is likely aligned with — or even exceeds — industry averages. This is particularly true considering their long-term involvement and popularity, which elevates their influence in nonprofit marketing.
Yes, Alec and Kaleb continue to be compensated in 2025 for their appearances in commercials. As both have expanded their reach into brand ambassadorship and influencer work, their value in the advertising and nonprofit sectors has grown significantly.
Shriners Hospitals for Children have played a critical role in both Alec and Kaleb’s lives. As nonprofit institutions, these hospitals provide world-class medical care to children with orthopedic conditions, burns, spinal injuries, and cleft lip and palate — often at no cost to the family.
The hospital’s long-term commitment to Alec and Kaleb includes not only their medical treatments but also their development as advocates and voices for kids living with disabilities. This partnership has proven mutually beneficial, as Alec and Kaleb’s stories have helped raise millions for the organization.
Alec and Kaleb aren’t just advertising faces — they’re symbols of resilience, hope, and advocacy. Their involvement has brought attention to both the realities of living with a rare condition and the resources that make life possible for thousands of children. By sharing their experiences, they challenge stigma and inspire kids facing similar health challenges.
As of 2025, Kaleb remains actively involved in advocacy work. He continues to appear in Shriners’ campaigns and participates in events that raise awareness for children with medical challenges. Kaleb is also focused on his education while undergoing ongoing treatments.
So, do Alec and Kaleb get paid for commercials? Yes — they are fairly compensated, in line with industry standards for child actors and media personalities. However, their motivation goes far beyond money. Their lifelong connection to Shriners Hospitals and their desire to give back drive their work and public appearances. In 2025, both continue to inspire millions with their strength, joy, and dedication — proving that representation, compassion, and advocacy can go hand in hand with meaningful media work.
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