Apocalypse Now Cast Then and Now (1979 vs 2024)

Classic films like Apocalypse Now (1979) have left an unforgettable mark on cinema, but what became of the talented actors who brought these stories to life? The psychological toll of portraying characters affected by the horrors of war can be immense, and it's fascinating to explore how these performers evolved beyond their iconic roles.

Key Takeaways:

• Apocalypse Now, directed by Francis Ford Coppola and written by John Milius, delves into war's psychological effects.
• Cast members Marlon Brando, Martin Sheen, and Robert Duvall continued successful careers post-film.
• This post traces their journey from iconic roles in the film to diverse and acclaimed careers.
• These actors maintained legendary status in Hollywood, earning critical acclaim and solidifying their place in the industry.

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Quick Age Visualisation

• Martin Sheen: 39 in 1979, 84 now
• Marlon Brando: 55 in 1979, passed away at 80 in 2004
• Robert Duvall: 48 in 1979, 93 now
• Frederic Forrest: 43 in 1979, 88 now
• Sam Bottoms: 24 in 1979, passed away at 53 in 2008
• Laurence Fishburne: 18 in 1979, 63 now
• Albert Hall: 42 in 1979, 87 now
• Harrison Ford: 37 in 1979, 82 now
• Dennis Hopper: 43 in 1979, passed away at 74 in 2010
• Scott Glenn: 40 in 1979, 85 now

Martin Sheen as Captain Benjamin L. Willard

Then: Martin Sheen's age in 1979 (39)

In 1979, Martin Sheen was a 39-year-old actor who had already established himself as a talented performer. His role as Captain Benjamin L. Willard in Francis Ford Coppola's epic war film "Apocalypse Now" was a defining moment in his career. Sheen's portrayal of the troubled and morally conflicted assassin was a tour de force, capturing the psychological toll of the Vietnam War with raw authenticity.

Now: Martin Sheen's current age (84)

At 84 years old, Martin Sheen has enjoyed a remarkable career spanning over six decades. After his powerful performance in "Apocalypse Now," he continued to take on challenging and iconic roles, including his Emmy-winning turn as President Josiah Bartlet in the acclaimed political drama series "The West Wing." Sheen's unwavering commitment to his craft and his ability to embody complex characters have solidified his status as one of the most respected actors of his generation.

Marlon Brando as Colonel Walter E. Kurtz

Then: Marlon Brando's age in 1979 (55)

In 1979, the legendary Marlon Brando was 55 years old when he portrayed the enigmatic and unsettling Colonel Walter E. Kurtz in "Apocalypse Now." Brando's performance was a masterclass in understated intensity, delivering chilling monologues that delved into the heart of darkness and the madness of war. His haunting portrayal of Kurtz remains one of the most iconic and unforgettable performances in cinematic history.

Marlon Brando passed away in 2004 at the age of 80

Marlon Brando, the iconic actor who redefined the art of screen acting, passed away in 2004 at the age of 80. His remarkable career spanned over six decades, during which he delivered numerous unforgettable performances, including his Oscar-winning roles in "On the Waterfront" and "The Godfather." Brando's influence on the craft of acting is immeasurable, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of actors.

Robert Duvall as Lieutenant Colonel Bill Kilgore

Then: Robert Duvall's age in 1979 (48)

At the age of 48, Robert Duvall delivered one of his most memorable performances as Lieutenant Colonel Bill Kilgore in "Apocalypse Now." Duvall's portrayal of the eccentric and unhinged officer who loves the smell of napalm in the morning is a standout in the film. His intense and charismatic performance captured the absurdity and madness of war, leaving an indelible mark on cinematic history.

Now: Robert Duvall's current age (93)

At the remarkable age of 93, Robert Duvall continues to be a towering figure in the acting world. After his iconic turn in "Apocalypse Now," he went on to receive numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for his role in "Tender Mercies." Duvall's versatility and dedication to his craft have earned him a place among the most respected and admired actors of our time.

Frederic Forrest as Jay 'Chef' Hicks

Then: Frederic Forrest's age in 1979 (43)

In 1979, Frederic Forrest was 43 years old when he embodied the character of Jay 'Chef' Hicks in "Apocalypse Now." Forrest's performance as the troubled and resilient saucier from New Orleans was a standout, capturing the emotional turmoil and struggle for survival in the midst of the war's chaos.

Now: Frederic Forrest's current age (88)

At the age of 88, Frederic Forrest remains a respected actor known for his powerful performances. After his memorable turn in "Apocalypse Now," he continued to take on challenging roles in films like "The Rose" and the acclaimed miniseries "Lonesome Dove." Forrest's ability to bring depth and authenticity to his characters has cemented his legacy as a talented and versatile actor.

Sam Bottoms as Lance B. Johnson

Then: Sam Bottoms' age in 1979 (24)

In 1979, Sam Bottoms was a young actor at the age of 24 when he portrayed the character of Lance B. Johnson in "Apocalypse Now." Bottoms' performance as the spaced-out surfer-turned-soldier was a powerful representation of the counterculture youth caught up in the horrors of the Vietnam War.

Now: Sam Bottoms passed away in 2008 at the age of 53

Sadly, Sam Bottoms passed away in 2008 at the age of 53. Despite his promising start in "Apocalypse Now" and roles in films like "The Outlaw Josey Wales" and "Bronco Billy," Bottoms' career was cut short. His portrayal of Lance B. Johnson remains a poignant and memorable performance in one of the greatest war films ever made.

Laurence Fishburne as Tyrone 'Clean' Miller

Then: Laurence Fishburne's age in 1979 (18)

In 1979, Laurence Fishburne was a mere 18 years old when he made his unforgettable debut as Tyrone 'Clean' Miller in "Apocalypse Now." Fishburne's portrayal of the young and innocent soldier thrust into the heart of the war was a powerful and haunting performance that belied his age.

Now: Laurence Fishburne's current age (63)

At the age of 63, Laurence Fishburne has solidified his status as one of the most respected and versatile actors of his generation. After his breakthrough role in "Apocalypse Now," he has delivered numerous iconic performances, including Morpheus in "The Matrix" trilogy and his Emmy-winning work in the TV series "Miss Evers' Boys." Fishburne's talent and dedication to his craft have earned him a place among the greats of the acting world.

Albert Hall as Chief Phillips

Then: Albert Hall's age in 1979 (42)

In 1979, Albert Hall was a 42-year-old actor when he portrayed Chief Phillips, the commanding officer and navigator of the patrol boat in "Apocalypse Now." Hall's performance brought a sense of authority and wisdom to his character, serving as a father figure to the younger soldiers.

Now: Albert Hall's current age (87)

At the age of 87, Albert Hall has had a prolific career in film and television. After his memorable role in "Apocalypse Now," he continued to take on various characters, appearing in notable projects such as "Malcolm X" and the long-running medical drama "Grey's Anatomy." Hall's longevity and versatility as an actor have made him a respected figure in the entertainment industry.

Harrison Ford as Colonel Lucas

Then: Harrison Ford's age in 1979 (37)

In 1979, Harrison Ford was a 37-year-old actor with a minor role as Colonel Lucas in "Apocalypse Now." While his part was small, it laid the foundation for his future success and marked the beginning of his journey towards becoming one of the most iconic actors in cinema history.

Now: Harrison Ford's current age is 82

Now at the age of 82, Harrison Ford is a legendary figure in the entertainment industry. After his brief appearance in "Apocalypse Now," he went on to portray some of the most beloved and iconic characters in film history, including Han Solo in the "Star Wars" franchise and Indiana Jones in the "Indiana Jones" series. Ford's charismatic performances and undeniable screen presence have made him a true Hollywood icon, cementing his place as one of the most recognisable and beloved actors of all time.

Dennis Hopper as Photojournalist

Then: Dennis Hopper's age in 1979 (43)

In 1979, Dennis Hopper was a 43-year-old actor and filmmaker who brought his unique energy and intensity to the role of the photojournalist in "Apocalypse Now." Hopper's performance added a touch of dark humour and commentary on the madness of war, serving as a connecting thread between the film's protagonist and its enigmatic villain.

Now: Dennis Hopper passed away in 2010 at the age of 74

Dennis Hopper, the prolific actor, director, and artist, passed away in 2010 at the age of 74. Throughout his career, Hopper made significant contributions to the entertainment industry, directing the cult classic "Easy Rider" and delivering memorable performances in films like "Blue Velvet" and "Hoosiers." His role as the photojournalist in "Apocalypse Now" remains a testament to his versatility and unique presence on screen.

Scott Glenn as Lieutenant Richard M. Colby

Then: Scott Glenn's age in 1979 (40)

In 1979, Scott Glenn was a 40-year-old actor who portrayed Lieutenant Richard M. Colby in "Apocalypse Now." Glenn's performance as Willard's predecessor, who succumbed to Kurtz's charismatic influence, added depth and complexity to the film's exploration of the psychological toll of war.

Now: Scott Glenn's current age is 85.

Now at the age of 85, Scott Glenn continues to be an esteemed actor known for his versatility and commitment to his craft. After his role in "Apocalypse Now," he has delivered powerful performances in films like "The Right Stuff," "Silverado," and "The Bourne Ultimatum." Glenn's ability to seamlessly transition between various genres and character types has solidified his place as a respected and accomplished actor in the industry.