Boy Meets World’s Maitland Ward Shares How Costar Ben Savage Reacted to Her Porn Career

In a recent and candid interview with E! News, Maitland Ward, known for her role as Rachel McGuire on the beloved 90s sitcom Boy Meets World, opened up about her unexpected career shift from mainstream acting to adult entertainment. What caught many by surprise was the unwavering support she received from her former costar, Ben Savage. Despite Savage’s own high-profile transition into the political arena, he stood by Ward’s side, offering his encouragement and understanding. This revelation not only sheds light on their enduring friendship but also provides a glimpse into the complexities of personal choices and professional paths.

Maitland Ward’s journey from the wholesome world of family-friendly television to the provocative realm of adult entertainment is nothing short of extraordinary. When she first made the decision to transition into this new career, it was met with a mix of curiosity and skepticism. However, Ward remained resolute in her choice, driven by a desire to explore her own sexuality and challenge societal norms. What she didn’t anticipate was the unwavering support she would receive from Ben Savage, who played Cory Matthews, the show’s central character. Despite the potential backlash, Savage’s steadfast friendship proved to be a source of strength for Ward during this transformative period in her life.

Ben Savage’s support for Maitland Ward is particularly noteworthy given his own aspirations in the political sphere. In 2023, Savage announced his candidacy for Congress, a move that garnered significant attention. One might assume that aligning himself with someone in the adult entertainment industry could be politically risky, but Savage’s loyalty to Ward transcended any potential fallout. Their bond, forged over years of working together on Boy Meets World, remained unshaken. Ward’s memoir, My Escape from Hollywood, delves into the intricacies of their friendship, highlighting Savage’s genuine care and understanding.

The camaraderie between Ward and Savage is reminiscent of old friends who have weathered the storms of life together. Despite the divergent paths their careers have taken, their connection remains strong. Ward fondly recalls the days on set when they shared laughs, inside jokes, and a sense of camaraderie that extended beyond the confines of the show. This bond was further solidified during the filming of the show’s finale in 2000 when Savage and the rest of the cast playfully hazed Ward, tricking her into thinking she had to sing in front of a live studio audience. It was moments like these that cemented their friendship and created lasting memories.

While Ben Savage’s character, Cory Matthews, and Maitland Ward’s character, Rachel McGuire, had a sibling-like relationship on Boy Meets World, their real-life connection mirrored this dynamic. Ward often saw Savage as a little brother, and their playful interactions on set reflected this affectionate bond. Despite the initial nerves Ward felt when joining the tight-knit cast, she was welcomed with open arms, and the cast quickly became like a second family. This sense of belonging and acceptance played a crucial role in Ward’s decision to pursue her unconventional career path, knowing she had the support of those who mattered most.

Ben Savage’s career trajectory after Boy Meets World took him in a different direction, but his dedication to acting remained steadfast. Following the show’s conclusion in 2000, Savage pursued higher education and graduated from Stanford University in 2004. He continued to make appearances in various TV shows and films, showcasing his versatility as an actor. In 2014, fans were delighted when Savage reprised his role as Cory Matthews in the Disney Channel spin-off, Girl Meets World. This reunion allowed longtime fans to reconnect with their favorite characters and introduced a new generation to the beloved series.

Savage’s foray into politics began with an unsuccessful bid for a seat on the West Hollywood City Council in 2022. Undeterred by this setback, he announced his intention to run for Congress in 2024. His political ambitions reflect a desire to make a positive impact on his community and bring about meaningful change. Despite the demands of his political career, Savage has remained a steadfast friend to Ward, offering his support and encouragement as she navigates the challenges of the adult entertainment industry. Their friendship serves as a testament to the enduring bonds formed during their time on Boy Meets World.

Maitland Ward’s close relationships with her other Boy Meets World co-stars further highlight the tight-knit nature of the cast. Will Friedle, who played Eric Matthews, has enjoyed a successful career as a voice actor and is happily married to Susan Martens. Trina McGee, who portrayed Angela Moore, continues to act and has maintained a strong friendship with Ward. Rider Strong, known for his role as Shawn Hunter, has also remained active in the entertainment industry and has dabbled in directing. These enduring connections speak to the lasting impact of their time together on the show and the mutual support they offer one another.

William Daniels, who brought the iconic character Mr. Feeny to life, continues to make appearances at fan conventions and recently lent his voice to the film Superintelligence. Betsy Randle, who played Cory and Eric’s mother, has acted in several TV shows and movies since the end of Boy Meets World. The continued success and camaraderie of the cast members underscore the unique bond they share, a bond that extends beyond the confines of the show and into their personal lives. Maitland Ward’s journey is a testament to the power of friendship and the support of those who truly understand and appreciate her choices.

In August 2024, Danielle Fishel, who portrayed Topanga Lawrence, revealed that she had been diagnosed with DCIS, a form of breast cancer. Despite this challenging news, Fishel assured her fans that she would be fine and remained optimistic about her prognosis. Her resilience and determination in the face of adversity serve as an inspiration to her fellow cast members and fans alike. Fishel has also expanded her career as a director and hosts a podcast with her Boy Meets World co-stars, providing a platform for them to share their experiences and insights with a wider audience.

Maitland Ward’s memoir, My Escape from Hollywood, offers readers an intimate look into her life and career. In addition to detailing her transition from acting to adult entertainment, the memoir explores her personal journey, including her relationships with her Boy Meets World co-stars. Ward’s candid reflections provide valuable insights into the complexities of navigating a career in the entertainment industry and the importance of staying true to oneself. The memoir also highlights the support she received from Ben Savage, whose unwavering friendship has been a source of strength and encouragement.

For fans of Boy Meets World, the opportunity to revisit all seven seasons of the show on Disney+ is a nostalgic trip down memory lane. The enduring popularity of the series speaks to its timeless appeal and the lasting impact it has had on viewers. Maitland Ward’s memoir adds another layer to the show’s legacy, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the friendships and experiences that shaped the cast members’ lives. As Ward continues to navigate her career in the adult entertainment industry, she remains grateful for the support of her former co-stars and the enduring bond they share.

In conclusion, Maitland Ward’s journey from Boy Meets World to the adult entertainment industry is a testament to her resilience and determination. The unwavering support she received from Ben Savage and her other co-stars highlights the strength of their enduring friendships. Despite the challenges and societal judgments she faced, Ward remained true to herself and found success in her chosen path. Her memoir, My Escape from Hollywood, offers readers a candid and insightful look into her life and career, shedding light on the complexities of personal choices and the power of friendship. As fans continue to revisit Boy Meets World and follow the cast members’ journeys, the show’s legacy lives on, reminding us of the lasting impact of genuine connections and unwavering support.