Peter Ostrum is a former American actor whose fame is solely linked to his portrayal of Charlie Bucket in the 1971 cult film *Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory*. Cast for the role at the age of twelve, he turned down a contract for additional films after the movie's success, deciding to permanently leave his film career. Ostrum then pursued an academic path, earning a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from Cornell University in 1984. Since then, he has worked as a veterinarian in New York State, specializing in the treatment of large animals, particularly horses and cattle. Although he left acting, he has occasionally participated in reunions and documentaries related to his only film. While his brief career did not earn him any film awards, his performance remains iconic, and his subsequent professional path has earned him the respect of the scientific and veterinary communities.