From Cult Classic to Real-Life Adventures: Where the Cast of The Goonies Are Now
The Goonies launched in 1985 and became an instant cult hit. The adventure-comedy, directed by Richard Donner and produced by Steven Spielberg, followed a scrappy group of kids hunting treasure to save their homes. Over four decades later, the film remains iconic, and its cast has taken wildly different paths—ranging from Hollywood stardom to advocacy, jazz, and law.
1. Josh Brolin: From Teen Heartthrob to Hollywood Powerhouse
Josh Brolin debuted as Brand in The Goonies. He quickly moved from small TV roles to blockbuster films. From cowboys to presidents, Brolin carved out a lasting career, becoming one of Hollywood’s most enduring stars.
2. Martha Plimpton: Stage Star and Activist
Martha Plimpton, the sharp-tongued Stef, began acting at eight. After The Goonies, she shone in The Mosquito Coast, Running on Empty, and indie hits. On stage, she earned the National Medal of Arts with Steppenwolf Theatre. Off-stage, she became a tireless activist, co-founding A is For and serving nearly 30 years on Planned Parenthood’s Board of Advocates.
Corey Feldman, Sean Astin, Ke Huy Quan, and Jeff Cohen reading a treasure map in a scene from the film “Goonies,” in 1985 | Source: Getty Images
3. Joe Pantoliano: From Villain to Emmy Winner
Joe Pantoliano brought the greedy Francis Fratelli to life. After The Goonies, he starred in The Sopranos, The Matrix, Memento, and Bad Boys. His role as Ralph Cifaretto earned him a 2003 Emmy, and with over 150 credits, he remains one of film and TV’s most magnetic actors.
4. Robert Davi: From Screen Villain to Jazz Sensation
Robert Davi played the menacing Jake Fratelli and later starred in License to Kill, Die Hard, and The Iceman. But he surprised fans with a second career as a jazz singer. His album Davi Sings Sinatra – On the Road to Romance hit #6 on Billboard’s Jazz Charts, cementing his dual legacy in music and film.
5. Kerri Green: From Summer Camp to Hollywood Hiatus
Kerri Green, the fresh-faced Andy, skipped summer camp to audition for The Goonies. After starring in Summer Rental and Lucas, she stepped away from Hollywood to study art at Vassar College. She later returned briefly with Blue Flame and directed Bellyfruit, but her last screen credit came in 2012.
6. Sean Astin: Hero Onscreen and Off
Sean Astin, who played Mikey, became a household name from The Goonies to Rudy and The Lord of the Rings. Behind the camera, he writes, produces, and directs. Offscreen, he’s a devoted family man, activist, and philanthropist, raising three daughters while championing causes he believes in.
Joe Pantoliano, Jeff Cohen, Lupe Ontiveros, Richard Donner, Ke Huy Quan, Robert Davi, and Corey Feldman attend the Warner Bros. 25th Anniversary celebration of “The Goonies” on October 27, 2010 | Source: Getty Images
7. Ke Huy Quan: A Refugee’s Road to Oscar
Ke Huy Quan, the lovable Data, fled Vietnam as a child. After early roles in Indiana Jones and The Goonies, Hollywood opportunities dwindled. He earned a film degree, worked behind the scenes, and later returned to acting. His role in Everything Everywhere All at Once won him an Oscar, celebrating decades of resilience and perseverance.
8. Corey Feldman: The Rise and Trials of a Child Star
Corey Feldman, the fast-talking Mouth, starred in hits like Gremlins and the “Two Coreys” films. Behind the fame, he faced abuse, addiction, and legal battles. Today, Feldman advocates for survivors of childhood trauma and appeared on Dancing with the Stars in 2025.
9. Jeff Cohen: From Chunk to Deal-Making Powerhouse
Jeff Cohen, immortalized by the truffle shuffle, saw acting fade with puberty. He earned degrees from UC Berkeley and UCLA Law, then became a top entertainment attorney. Cohen negotiated major Hollywood deals, including Ke Huy Quan’s Oscar-winning contract, and authored The Dealmaker’s Ten Commandments, proving a second act can shine as brightly as a first.
The Goonies Spirit Lives On
Over 40 years later, these actors have weathered fame, failure, reinvention, and triumph. Some stayed in Hollywood, others stepped away, but all carry the adventurous spirit that made The Goonies unforgettable. Whether on screen, stage, or in real life, their legacy endures.
