For anyone growing up in the '80s, Molly Ringwald was an icon. She embodied the teenage angst and awkwardness that we all related to at some point in our lives. Her roles in The Breakfast Club, Sixteen Candles, and Pretty in Pink captured our hearts and made us laugh and cry. Who can forget her heartbreaking rendition of "If You Were Here" in Sixteen Candles?
And now, as Ringwald pushes her late fifties, it's hard to believe that it's been more than three decades since those films were released. But one thing's for certain—she's still just as beautiful and talented as ever before.
Ah, Molly Ringwald. She'll forever be ingrained in our memories as the ultimate '80s teen movie queen. But what's she been up to lately? Well, turns out she's still acting, with recent appearances in Riverdale and The Kissing Booth 2. But that's not all; she's also a published author, with a book of essays titled Getting the Pretty Back: Friendship, Family, and Finding the Perfect Lipstick under her belt.
And if that wasn't enough to make you feel like you're not doing enough with your life, she's also a singer and recently released a jazz album called "Except Sometimes." Molly Ringwald: still cool, still crushing it.
We all had crushes on Anthony Michael Hall back in the ‘80s. Let’s be real, who wouldn’t fall for the geek-turned-stud in Sixteen Candles and The Breakfast Club? And let’s not forget his roles in other Molly Ringwald films, like Pretty in Pink and Weird Science. But as we grew up, so did Hall.
Now, well into his fifties, Hall looks different from his iconic ‘80s self. But hey, time doesn’t discriminate–we’re all getting older. Regardless, we’ll always remember him as the sweet, awkward teenage heartthrob from our favorite coming-of-age flicks.
While his acting career slowed down after his teen era, Hall has stayed busy in the decades since. In his older age, he's taken on more mature roles in TV shows like The Dead Zone and guest spots on shows like Psych and Community. He's also stepped behind the camera to direct TV episodes and a few indie films.
It seems that Hall has carved out an enduring career as a versatile actor and director. His Breakfast Club fame may follow him, but Hall has shown range and longevity that have kept him working steadily to this day.
In the late '80s and early '90s, Sean Astin made his mark on the big screen with a string of beloved films. From playing the plucky Mikey in The Goonies to the determined Rudy in the inspiring sports drama, Astin's early career was full of memorable performances.
But let's not forget his turn as the loyal sidekick Samwise Gamgee in the epic Lord of the Rings trilogy. He may have started out as a child actor, but his talent and dedication have made him a fan favorite for generations to come.
Not only has Sean Astin made appearances in TV shows like Stranger Things and The Big Bang Theory, but he's also directed several short films and even a feature-length movie.
And let's not forget his voice-over work in popular shows like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Justice League Action. It's safe to say that Astin is still keeping busy, and we're excited to see what he has in store for us next.
Ah, the '80s—the era of big hair, neon colors, and Judd Nelson's bad boy charm. Who didn't swoon over him in The Breakfast Club? And even though time has passed, Nelson's talent hasn't diminished. He's been a steady presence on both the silver and small screens since his debut.
But here's the kicker: he's actually a decade older than most of his fellow '80s heartthrobs. Who would have thought that the bad boy all the girls wanted to date was actually an ageless wonder?
Nelson has continued acting in film and TV, with roles in shows like Empire and Billionaire Boys Club. He's also made a name for himself as a voice actor, lending his smooth baritone to characters in animated series like Transformers and Ben 10. Who knew the man who portrayed rebel John Bender would go on to voice the heroic Hot Rod?
Nelson has also dabbled in writing and producing, showcasing his creative versatility. It's clear he's a true Renaissance man, and we can't wait to see what he'll do next!
From her striking looks to her undeniable talent, Mia Farrow quickly became a force to be reckoned with. After getting her start in the classic film John Paul Jones, she went on to star in numerous films and TV shows, like Rosemary's Baby and The Great Gatsby, showcasing her ability to captivate audiences with her dynamic performances.
And let's not forget about her iconic pixie cut; she practically single-handedly made short hair the must-have style of the '60s. Looking back, it's clear that Farrow's early career was a testament to her resilience and unwavering passion for her craft.
Even in her late seventies, she continues to bless us with her talent and grace. Her career in recent years has brought us diverse and compelling roles that truly showcase her range as an actress. From playing a grieving mother in A Rose for Christmas to a quirky grandmother in High Society, Farrow never ceases to surprise and delight us with her performances.
And let's not forget her humanitarian efforts and activism, proving that she's not just a talented artist, but also a compassionate and inspiring human being.
Say Anything cemented Cusack as the dreamiest boombox-wielding object of desire, but it was only the beginning of his illustrious career. With movies like 1408, Grosse Point Blank, and High Fidelity, he became one of the biggest movie stars of the time.
Whether he's playing a haunted writer, a hitman with a heart, or a lovelorn music snob, John Cusack always delivers. The boombox may have brought him into our hearts, but his talent and charisma kept him there.
Cusack has been keeping busy lately. No, he hasn't retired to a secluded island to live out his days in peace and quiet. Instead, he's been hard at work starring in a variety of films and TV shows.
From the action-packed thriller Blood Money to the romantic comedy Love and Mercy, Cusack has proven that he still has what it takes to captivate audiences. And let's not forget his recent cameo in the hit TV series Utopia. Cusack is showing no signs of slowing down anytime soon!
From his adorable turn as Mouth in The Goonies to his badass vampire-killing skills in The Lost Boys, Corey Feldman proved time and time again that he was the ultimate scene-stealer.
But where has he been since then, you might ask?
Well, unless you count his bizarre music career and questionable reality TV appearances, it seems like Corey has pretty much disappeared from the spotlight.
But hey, at least we have the memories...and the cringe-worthy photos of his old haircuts to keep us entertained.
Ally Sheedy was an icon of the '80s. She appeared in The Breakfast Club, St. Elmo’s Fire, Short Circuit, and others throughout the decade. She may no longer be making us laugh and cry on the big screen anymore, but she’s still active within the #MeToo campaign.
Sheedy—who starred in classics like The Breakfast Club and St. Elmo's Fire in the '80s—may have left Hollywood behind, but she's still making headlines for her powerful statements about sexual harassment and assault. And honestly, we think that's pretty damn iconic.
Sheedy—who starred in classics like The Breakfast Club and St. Elmo's Fire in the '80s—may have left Hollywood behind, but she's still making headlines for her powerful statements about sexual harassment and assault.
And honestly, we think that's pretty damn iconic.
While some may attribute his breakout role to his portrayal of the young rebel in The Goonies or his brooding turn in No Country for Old Men, let's be real—it was all about that police dog comedy from the early '90s, Flirting with Disaster.
Who wouldn't love a film that combines the comedic genius of Ben Stiller with the heartwarming performance of a schnauzer in a windbreaker? It may not have won any awards, but it certainly won over our hearts—and set Josh Brolin on the path to a long, successful career.
Nowadays, you can catch him playing the ultimate villain, Thanos, in Avengers: Infinity War or as the tough-as-nails Cable in Deadpool 2.
Sure, he may be a tad older than his old co-stars, but if anything, he's aged like a fine wine.
Debra Winger stole our hearts in Terms of Endearment and An Officer and a Gentleman, leaving us all wondering what her next blockbuster hit would be. But alas, she disappeared from the limelight, leaving us all scratching our heads.
Luckily, for those who spent countless hours contemplating her whereabouts, a documentary was made—Searching for Debra Winger.
Turns out, she was busy being a kick-ass mom and saving the environment. Who needs Hollywood when you can save the planet?
From dabbling in producing and directing to becoming an advocate for social and political issues, Winger has never lost her fire.
With his rugged good looks and charming wit, he dominated the box office like a boss. From fighting n*zis in Raiders of the Lost Ark to hunting replicants in Blade Runner, Ford kept us on the edge of our seats.
And let's not forget about his iconic role as Han Solo in the Star Wars franchise. Sorry, Death Star, but Ford still reigns supreme.
At 80 years old, he's not slowing down anytime soon. Who needs retirement when you're a Hollywood legend?
Whether it's staying active with pilates or sticking to a healthy diet, Mr. Ford knows that taking care of his body is the key to a long-lasting career in Hollywood.
If there's anyone who knows their way around the silver screen, it's Dianne Wiest. This seasoned actress has graced the big screen in everything from romantic comedies to vampire flicks, and she's done it all with style and grace.
But these days, you're more likely to catch her on the small screen than in the movies—not that she's complaining.
Wiest has made a name for herself in the television world, and while she's happy to take on a film role now and then, she's not exactly eager to get typecast as a neurotic mom for the umpteenth time.
Hey, we get it; there are only so many times you can convincingly worry about your son's safety from those pesky bloodsuckers.
Ah, the Sheen family. Known for their talent, their drama, and their run-ins with the law. But let's not forget the often-overshadowed Emilio Estevez; this guy was more than just a member of the infamous clan, he was a force to be reckoned with on the big screen.
Whether he was playing a rugged cowboy in Young Guns, a troubled teen in The Outsiders, or a rebellious jock in The Breakfast Club, Estevez brought depth and nuance to each and every role. So, while his family may get all the headlines, let's not forget about the unsung hero who was one of our favorite characters of the '80s.
Emilio Estevez didn't fall off the face of the Earth after his Brat Pack days despite not having graced our screens as frequently as his brother Charlie Sheen. But fear not, my fellow '80s movie fans, Estevez is still kicking it, just in a more laid-back, I-don't-need-Hollywood kind of way.
He's been working on smaller projects, directing, and producing films that speak to his activist heart.
In the '60s, Cher's flowing, long dark hair and striking features made her an instant icon. But it wasn't just her looks that propelled her early career. With hits like "I Got You Babe" and "The Beat Goes On," she proved she had the talent to match her beauty.
Cher was a true trailblazer, carving out a space for herself in the male-dominated music industry. Cher may have evolved over the years, but one thing remains constant: her effortless charisma and star power.
Cher's been living her best life her entire life—even now that she's in her seventies. From continuing to release new music to embarking on world tours, the living legend shows no signs of slowing down.
And let's not forget about her foray into the world of acting; Moonstruck and Burlesque were truly some of her best work. As someone who has been entertaining audiences for over five decades, it's clear that Cher's legacy will continue to live on for years to come.
In the early '80s, Fox landed a couple of small roles in TV shows like The Love Boat and Fantasy Island, but it wasn't until he was cast as Alex P. Keaton in Family Ties that his star truly began to rise.
With his sharp wit and boyish charm, Fox quickly became a fan favorite and was even nominated for an Emmy in 1986. Looking back on his early career, it's clear that Fox had that special something from the very beginning. And while his roles have changed over the years, one thing remains the same: he's still one of the most talented and beloved actors in Hollywood.
Fox has been as busy as ever with his Michael J. Fox Foundation, which focuses on finding a cure for Parkinson's disease, which he's been personally fighting for decades. But being the fighter he is, Fox hasn't let the disease define him. Instead, he has become an advocate for Parkinson's research and has used his platform to raise awareness about the disease.
His foundation, The Michael J. Fox Foundation, has raised over $1 billion to fund Parkinson's research. For someone who has given us so much laughter and joy over the years, it's heart-warming to see Fox channeling his energy into something that can help so many people.
With her infectious smile and that unmistakable laugh, she quickly became America's Sweetheart. But her successful career can be attributed to her talent and persistence as well as her beauty and leading-lady energy. Roberts actually auditioned twice for her breakout role in Pretty Woman.
Apparently, Disney wasn't too sure about investing in a then-unknown actress. Which is hilarious because now, when we think of the ultimate leading lady, who doesn't think of Julia Roberts???
After establishing herself as one of Hollywood's top leading ladies, Ms. Roberts has taken a step back from the spotlight in recent years. However, she continues to make appearances on the big screen from time to time, reminding us all of her impressive acting chops.
And while aging can be daunting for many, Julia seems to have found the fountain of youth, maintaining her stunning looks that captivated audiences in the '90s.
In his older years—the beloved comedic actor is now in his seventies—Murray has been focused on spending time with his family (adorable) and continuing to grace us with his on-screen presence in 2021 films The French Dispatch and Ghostbusters: Afterlife.
He’s also been exploring his musical talents, having performed with classical musicians and even releasing an album of Christmas carols (and a Netflix special). In short, Bill Murray isn't slowing down anytime soon, and we're grateful for it.
Who doesn't love Bill Murray? This guy is a certified goofball, and we wouldn't want him any other way. As one of the funniest comedians to ever grace our screens, he's given us some of the most iconic movie moments of our time. From Caddyshack to Ghostbusters, Stripes to Groundhog Day, he's made us all laugh until our sides hurt.
Murray has also shown us he's got serious range; have you seen Lost in Translation? He's even lent his voice to animated characters—does the name Baloo ring a bell? Bill Murray is the ultimate package when it comes to comedy, and we're all lucky enough to be here to witness it.
Although Sigourney technically started her career in the ‘70s with Alien, we all knew immediately that she was destined for greatness. Her character Ripley instantly became a fan favorite and is still considered one of the best characters ever written. But it doesn’t stop there.
Throughout the ‘80s, Sigourney appeared in various films with genres ranging from action to comedy, proving that she has a range that is truly unmatched.
In recent years, she's taken on various roles in movies and TV shows like The Defenders, The Cabin in the Woods, and Finding Dory. She even made an appearance in the 2016 reboot of Ghostbusters.
She's also been an advocate for environmental causes and the fight against animal cruelty—so as it turns out, she's not just a talented actress but a pretty amazing human being too.
Ghostbusters wouldn't be Ghostbusters without Ernie Hudson's iconic portrayal of Winston Zeddemore. But he was also out there crushing it in the TV game during the '80s.
With appearances in St. Elsewhere, The Super Powers Team: Galactic Guardians, and The Last Precinct, Ernie was basically the king of television. We may know him best for his ghost-busting chops, but let's not forget all the other amazing roles he brought to life back in the day.
Even though he's looking sharp as always, Ernie has been up to more than just defying time. In his older years—now well into his seventies—he's continued to expand his ]acting resume, starring in TV shows like Grace and Frankie and The Family Business.
He's also used his platform to raise awareness for various charities and causes.
Meryl Streep had talent pouring out of her pores from day one. Hailing from New Jersey, Streep's first forays into acting were at an all-girls Catholic high school (where the nuns allegedly saw her potential before anyone else did). From there, she quickly moved on to Yale Drama School, where she honed her craft with the likes of Sigourney Weaver and Christopher Durang.
By the early '80s, she had begun making a name for herself in Hollywood, snagging two Oscar wins for her roles in Kramer vs. Kramer and Sophie's Choice. She proved she was not a force to be reckoned with—while maintaining humor and humility.
Meryl Streep has been kicking butt and taking names in Hollywood in the decades since (and scored one more Oscar win—a whopping 21 nominations throughout her career). From The Devil Wears Prada to The Post, Streep has consistently shown us her range and versatility on screen. And let's not forget her recent performances in Little Women and Big Little Lies.
But it's not just her acting talents that make her a force to be reckoned with. Streep uses her platform for good, speaking out on important issues like women's rights, environmentalism, and LGBTQ+ rights. And if that wasn't enough, she also uses her time and resources to support charities focused on cancer research and the arts.
Dan Aykroyd was on fire during the ‘80s. Before the decade, he showed he was a comedic genius on SNL. His hilarious acting was carried into The Blues Brothers immediately into the ‘80s and followed with The Ghostbusters in 1984.
He also appeared in Indian Jones and the Temple of Doom and Trading Spaces within the 10-year span.
Dan Aykroyd may have slowed down on the acting front, but he's still making waves in the entertainment industry. His recent appearances in Ghostbusters: Afterlife and Tammy's Always Dying prove that he's still got it. Plus, let's not forget about his legendary voice-acting skills. But Aykroyd is more than just an actor; he's also a behind-the-scenes powerhouse.
From producing TV shows to owning a winery, Aykroyd proves that he's got more tricks up his sleeve than a ghost-trapping proton pack. And let's not forget about his advocacy work. Aykroyd isn't afraid to speak out about causes he cares about, like autism research and education.
He was the go-to guy for Hollywood's hottest hits, from the hilarious Ghostbusters to the out-of-this-world Spaceballs.
And let's not forget his starring role in the twisted musical Little Shop of Horrors. But where did he disappear to?
Rick Moranis may have taken a break from acting in the mid-1990s, but that doesn't mean he's been twiddling his thumbs this whole time. No, he's been busy raising his children and dabbling in various projects, like lending his voice to a Disney animation about a bear and releasing a comedy music album.
Talk about versatility! And while he may have made a few cameo appearances here and there, it seems Moranis is content with staying out of the spotlight these days.
Bette Midler was a force to be reckoned with in the 80s. Not only was she a talented actress, but she also had a voice that could make you feel all the feels. Her iconic role in Beaches is still talked about to this day, and I'm pretty sure there isn't a person out there who hasn't belted out "Wind Beneath My Wings" at least once in their lifetime.
But Bette didn't just stick to the big screen. She was also known for her live performances, where she would wow audiences with her humor and powerhouse vocals.
Bette Midler is more than just a talented performer; she's also a force for social good. Her New York Restoration Project has brought life back to parks and gardens in underserved communities, making the concrete jungle a little greener. She's not just about sprucing up public spaces, though – Midler is also a fierce advocate for environmental protection and LGBTQ+ rights.
And let's not forget her impressive career in entertainment, where she continues to shine on stage and screen. Her revival of Hello, Dolly! proved she's still got it, and although Hocus Pocus 2 was a bit of a disappointment, it was still good to see Midler in the role that introduced her (and Sarah Jessica Parker!) to kids in the '90s.
In the early stages of her career, Close spent several years performing in theater productions before finally making her mark in Hollywood. But she was not one to shy away from a challenge. In fact, her debut performance in the movie The World According to Garp earned her an Oscar nomination right out of the gate. Talk about an impressive entrance!
From there, Close continued to dominate the screen with her talent and charm, proving that she was not just a one-hit-wonder. It's safe to say we aren't the only ones grateful for her perseverance, determination, and incredible acting skills.
This Hollywood icon, known for her captivating performances in movies like Fatal Attraction and Dangerous Liaisons, is still commanding the spotlight, even well into her seventies. Close has taken on a variety of projects, from starring in the hit TV series Damages to lending her voice in popular animated films like The Lion King and Guardians of the Galaxy. But that's not all...
Close is also using her platform to advocate for mental health awareness and even starting her own online book club. It's clear that Glenn Close is aging like a fine wine, and we can't wait to see what she has in store for us next.
For the stunningly talented Diane Lane, it all started with a little movie called A Little Romance. Back in the day, producers were looking for a fresh face to star in the romantic comedy, and they stumbled upon young Diane. The role was a breakthrough moment for the budding actress, and it quickly shot her into the spotlight.
With her undeniable talent and striking beauty, it's no surprise that Diane Lane is still a force to be reckoned with in the industry today. From starring in blockbuster hits to receiving critical acclaim for her work, Diane Lane is a true Hollywood icon.
Lane has been busy in the years since she got her start, showcasing her acting chops on both the big and small screens. She's tackled roles in everything from political thrillers to period dramas. And don't even get me started on her stunning performances in independent films!
But Lane isn't just an actress; she's also been using her platform to advocate for causes she cares about, including environmentalism and women's rights.
Before her breakout role in the steamy 9 1/2 Weeks, Basinger was a model and appeared in a series of iconic television shows such as Charlie's Angels and Fantasy Island. But it wasn't until her turn in the James Bond classic, Never Say Never Again, that Hollywood really started to take notice of this talented beauty.
From there, she went on to star in hits like Batman and L.A. Confidential, cementing herself as a Hollywood icon. It's safe to say that without Kim Basinger, the silver screen just wouldn't be as shiny.
With recent appearances in 50 Shades Darker and Grudge Match, Basinger has shown that she's still got the acting chops to play alluring older women on the big screen. And let's not forget her foray into activism, as she's used her celebrity status to bring attention to animal rights issues.
So, as much as we loved her in Batman and LA Confidential, it's great to see that Kim Basinger is still living her best life in her older years.
In the '80s, Michelle Pfeiffer had it all. The looks, the charm, and the acting chops that made her a Hollywood superstar. From her breakout role in Scarface to her sultry performance in The Witches of Eastwick, Pfeiffer captivated audiences with her beauty and talent.
But it wasn't just her on-screen persona that made her a star, it was her off-screen persona as well. Whether she was rocking shoulder pads and big hair or donning a sequined gown at a red-carpet event, Pfeiffer oozed confidence and charisma. She was the ultimate cool girl of the '80s, and we couldn't get enough of her timeless style and effortless glamour.
While some actors may fade into obscurity or struggle to find compelling roles as they get older, Pfeiffer has continued to captivate audiences with her nuanced performances and unmistakable charisma. Whether she's playing a villainous mastermind in Maleficent: Mistress of Evil or a down-to-earth grandmother in French Exit, Pfeiffer brings a magnetic quality to the screen that is hard to find in actors of any age.
It's clear she's still at the top of her game, and we can't wait to see what she does next.
If there's one actress who epitomizes the '80s, it's Winona Ryder. From her breakout role in Beetlejuice to her iconic turn in Heathers, Ryder solidified her status as a defining presence in the decade's cinema. But her success wasn't overnight; she worked her way up through bit parts and supporting roles before commanding the screen.
And who could forget her memorable acceptance speech at the Golden Globes in 1991, where she compared the excitement of winning to shoplifting? While her career has had its ups and downs since then, there's no denying that Ryder left an indelible mark on '80s pop culture that still resonates today.
The '80s have been seeing a major revival over the past few years, and who better to be the face of the movement than Winona Ryder? She's been dipping her toes back into the dark side, starring in hit Netflix series Stranger Things as Joyce Byers.
But that's not all folks; Ryder has also been making waves in the fashion world as the face of Marc Jacobs Beauty. Who knew our girl had so many tricks up her sleeve?
Before Beals became an overnight sensation as Alex Owens in Flashdance, she was just your average Yale student. But fate had other plans for her, and she landed the role that would catapult her into fame. And boy, did she nail it.
From the welding scenes to the iconic audition dance, Beals proved she was more than just a pretty face. She was a force to be reckoned with, and her start in the '80s was just the beginning of her impressive career.
Beals has stayed busy well into her fifties. From her role as the stubborn FBI agent in Taken, to playing a cancer patient in the heart-wrenching drama, The L Word: Generation Q, Beals has proved that her talent is timeless.
Not to mention, she's also a passionate activist for LGBTQ+ rights and environmental causes. Who says age has to slow you down? Jennifer Beals is proof that age is just a number, and talent, wit, and heart are what keeps you going strong.
