Diner (1982) Cast Then and Now

Released in 1982, Diner launched the careers of several Hollywood legends who have since become household names. Set in Baltimore during the late 1950s, this coming-of-age film assembled a remarkable group of young actors, most in their early to mid-20s, who would go on to shape the entertainment industry for decades to come. From Steve Guttenberg and Mickey Rourke to Kevin Bacon and Ellen Barkin, the cast represented a perfect blend of raw talent and youthful energy that captured the essence of an era.

Diner (1982)

Directed by Barry Levinson

Steve Guttenberg

Playing the role of Edward 'Eddie' Simmons

Daniel Stern

Playing the role of Laurence 'Shrevie' Schreiber

Mickey Rourke

Playing the role of Robert 'Boogie' Sheftell

Kevin Bacon

Playing the role of Timothy Fenwick Jr.

Tim Daly

Playing the role of William 'Billy' Howard

Ellen Barkin

Playing the role of Beth Schreiber

Paul Reiser

Playing the role of Modell

Kathryn Dowling

Playing the role of Barbara

Steve Guttenberg as Eddie Simmons

Born and raised in Brooklyn, Steve Guttenberg was just 23 when he brought Eddie Simmons to life in Diner. Before landing this breakthrough role, young Steve had already shown his dedication to the craft by attending Juilliard's summer program while still in high school, studying under the legendary John Houseman. Talk about starting strong!

Now at 66, Guttenberg's career since Diner reads like a greatest hits of 1980s cinema. He became a familiar face to audiences worldwide through Police Academy, Cocoon, Short Circuit, and Three Men and a Baby. While his most iconic roles came in the 80s and early 90s, Guttenberg has kept busy with appearances in everything from The Lost World: Jurassic Park to Veronica Mars and The Goldbergs. In 2019, he tied the knot with WCBS-TV reporter Emily Smith, proving there's always time for romance.

Daniel Stern as Laurence 'Shrevie' Schreiber

At 24, Daniel Stern brought the lovable Shrevie to the screen, and it's amazing to think how many beloved characters he would go on to portray. Now 67, Stern might be best known as the hapless burglar Marv in the Home Alone films or as the nostalgic narrator of The Wonder Years.

His memorable voice guided us through Kevin Arnold's coming-of-age story, making him perfect for the role since he had already helped tell one of cinema's greatest coming-of-age tales in Diner.

Mickey Rourke as Robert 'Boogie' Sheftell

Mickey Rourke was 29 when he played Boogie, making him the elder statesman of the main cast. Now 72, Rourke's journey since Diner has been nothing short of cinematic itself. He rode the wave of success through the '80s with hits like 9½ Weeks and Angel Heart before making a dramatic career switch to professional boxing in 1991. Talk about life imitating art—years later, he would draw on these experiences for his Oscar-nominated comeback role in The Wrestler.

His career renaissance continued with memorable roles in Sin City and Iron Man 2, proving that some stars shine even brighter after a temporary dim. The transformation from the smooth-talking Boogie to the battle-hardened characters of his later career showcases Rourke's remarkable range and resilience.

Kevin Bacon as Timothy Fenwick Jr.

At just 23, Kevin Bacon tackled the role of Timothy Fenwick Jr., and little did anyone know this was just the beginning of a career that would spark the famous "Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon" game. Now 66, Bacon's post-Diner journey has been nothing short of spectacular. From dancing his heart out in Footloose to commanding the screen in A Few Good Men and Apollo 13, he's proven himself to be one of Hollywood's most versatile actors.

Despite earning Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild Awards, here's a fun fact: The Guardian named him one of the best actors never to receive an Oscar nomination! But don't feel too bad – Bacon got his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2003. From Timothy Fenwick Jr. to Sebastian Shaw in X-Men: First Class, he's built a career that keeps audiences and critics coming back for more.

Tim Daly as Billy Howard

Tim Daly was 26 when he brought Billy Howard to life, and now at 68, he's carved out a career that spans everything from sitcoms to superheroes. If his voice sounds familiar, that's because he became the definitive Superman for a generation, voicing the Man of Steel in Superman: The Animated Series. But his on-screen presence has been just as impressive, with memorable roles in Wings and Private Practice. Acting runs in the family too – his sister is none other than acclaimed actress Tyne Daly!

Ellen Barkin as Beth Schreiber

At 27, Ellen Barkin made her breakthrough as Beth Schreiber, and now at 70, she's continued to be a force in Hollywood. After Diner, she quickly established herself as a leading lady with standout performances in The Big Easy and Sea of Love. Her role as Beth opened doors to a diverse career spanning intense dramas like This Boy's Life to Ocean's franchise with Ocean's Thirteen. Her journey from Baltimore diner scenes to becoming one of Hollywood's most respected actresses shows just how far talent and determination can take you.

Check out Ellen in some other notable roles:

• Eddie and The Cruisers
• Tender Mercies
• Sea of Love

Paul Reiser as Modell

Paul Reiser was 25 when he played Modell, and at 67, he's become one of television's most recognisable faces. While many know him as Paul Buchman from Mad About You, his career has included everything from facing off against xenomorphs in Aliens to playing a demanding music teacher in Whiplash. From the diner to the police station in Beverly Hills Cop, Reiser has shown his range across comedy and drama.