Have you ever pondered what happened to the intrepid band of misfits who embarked on a thrilling quest for treasure back in 1985? "The Goonies" cast, a group of talented kids, lit up the screen and have since charted fascinating and diverse paths, proving that the spirit of adventure extends far beyond the silver screen.
The announcement that "The Goonies" is returning to theaters has stirred a wave of nostalgia, prompting fans to revisit the beloved adventure comedy that captivated audiences with its heartwarming story of friendship and treasure hunts. Released on June 7, 1985, the film instantly achieved cult status, thanks in no small part to the stellar performances of its young cast. But what became of Mikey, Brand, Chunk, Data, Mouth, Andy, and Stef? Where did their journeys lead after the Goonies quest concluded?
The cast of "The Goonies" has continued to experience success in film and television, with some actors becoming household names, while others explored different career avenues entirely. Sean Astin, Josh Brolin, Ke Huy Quan, Corey Feldman, Jeff Cohen, and Kerri Green, among others, have kept busy in the entertainment industry, while some have ventured into new and unexpected fields. These stars may have lit up the screen as kids, but what paths did they forge in the years since, and what do they look like now? Let's take a closer look at the cast and their post-Goonies lives.
Actor | Character in "The Goonies" | Current Age | Career Highlights Post-Goonies | Notable Recent Work | Link to Reference |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sean Astin | Michael "Mikey" Walsh | 53 | Continued acting in film and television; has had significant roles in "Rudy", "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy, and "Stranger Things." | "Stranger Things" (TV Series), "The Sweetest Christmas" | IMDb |
Josh Brolin | Brandon "Brand" Walsh | 56 | Achieved major success in Hollywood, starring in numerous blockbusters; known for diverse roles and critically acclaimed performances. | "Dune" (2021), "Sicario" (2015), "No Country for Old Men" (2007), "Avengers: Endgame" (2019) | IMDb |
Jeff Cohen | Lawrence "Chunk" Cohen | 50 | Transitioned from acting to law; became a successful entertainment lawyer after earning a law degree from UCLA in 2002. | Entertainment Attorney at Cohen & Gardner, LLP | IMDb |
Ke Huy Quan | Richard "Data" Wang | 52 | Made a celebrated return to acting after a long hiatus, winning an Oscar. | "Everything Everywhere All at Once" (2022) | IMDb |
Corey Feldman | Clark "Mouth" Devereaux | 52 | Remained active in acting, music, and other creative ventures. | "Corbin Nash" (2018), "Lost Boys: The Thirst" (2010) | IMDb |
Kerri Green | Andrea "Andy" Carmichael | 58 | Continued acting, with appearances in various films and TV shows. | "Lucas" (1986), "Summer Rental" (1985) | IMDb |
Martha Plimpton | Stephanie "Stef" Steinbrenner | 53 | Continued acting in both film and television, with numerous notable roles and critical acclaim. | "Raising Hope" (TV series), "The Goonies" | IMDb |
The magic of "The Goonies" wasn't just in the grand adventure or the treasure hunt; it was in the camaraderie and the personalities of the young actors who portrayed these unforgettable characters. That is why the movie turned into a cult classic, and remains an enduring favorite across generations. It's a story that continues to resonate with audiences today.
One of the most striking transformations is that of Jeff Cohen, who played the loveable Chunk. After appearing in several episodes of TV shows, Cohen made a significant career shift, leaving acting behind to pursue a career in law. He earned a degree from the UCLA School of Law in 2002 and became a successful entertainment attorney. In fact, he even assisted his former co-star, Ke Huy Quan, who has experienced a major resurgence in his acting career, as seen in the film "Everything Everywhere All at Once" (2022) a role that also earned him an Oscar. Cohen's transition is a testament to the diverse paths that opened up for the cast members of "The Goonies."
Ke Huy Quan's journey, from child actor to Hollywood returnee, is a particularly inspiring story. Having found success in The Goonies as Data, and later in "Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom," Quan took a break from acting before making a triumphant comeback. He reunited with his "Goonies" castmates at various events, including a hand and footprint ceremony at the famed TCL Chinese Theatre in Los Angeles. His recent achievements highlight the enduring impact of "The Goonies" cast on the entertainment world.
Josh Brolin, who played the older brother, Brand, went on to achieve tremendous fame in Hollywood, starring in numerous blockbuster hits. Brolin's ability to take on diverse roles is evident in films like "No Country for Old Men" (2007), "Sicario" (2015), and "Dune" (2021), solidifying his status as a versatile and sought-after actor. His journey exemplifies the potential for those who start in their youth to build lasting careers in the entertainment industry.
Sean Astin, known for his role as Mikey, the asthmatic leader, has also sustained a thriving career. Astin's contributions in "Rudy" and "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy have made him a recognizable face and a respected figure in Hollywood. Sean Astin, Jeff Cohen, Ke Huy Quan, Kerri Green, and Corey Feldman, along with other members of the cast, continue to remind us of the long-lasting impact of their collaboration.
Kerri Green, who played Andy Carmichael, made her film debut in "The Goonies" and followed that up with appearances in other popular 80s films. Although she did not continue acting, the memories and experiences of working on the movie continue to bind the cast together. Corey Feldman, another of the original Goonies cast, has remained active in acting and has explored his other artistic interests.
The recent reunions of the "Goonies" cast, including appearances on the red carpet, hand and footprint ceremonies, and other gatherings, highlight the enduring bond of the cast. These reunions are a testament to the friendship that was forged on set all those years ago. The cast's commitment to one another, even after the passage of time, is a heartwarming demonstration of the shared experience of their younger years and the bonds created in the process.
From a successful attorney to Oscar-winning actors, the cast of "The Goonies" have crafted diverse and impactful lives. Their post-Goonies journeys underscore the unpredictable nature of life and the boundless potential of young actors who captured hearts on screen. The legacy of "The Goonies" is not simply the memories of a beloved film, but also the continued success and camaraderie of its cast members, who remind us that, even as time goes on, the spirit of adventure remains.