Starship Troopers Cast Then and Now: Intergalactic Warriors 25+ Years Later
Discover how the Starship Troopers cast has evolved 25+ years later! From sci-fi actors Casper Van Dien and Denise Richards to Neil Patrick Harris, uncover the journeys of Paul Verhoeven's 1997 film cast. See how these intergalactic warriors have transformed since their bug-hunting days.
It's been over a quarter-century since Paul Verhoeven's sci-fi action satire Starship Troopers blasted onto screens in 1997, launching the careers of several young actors. This cult classic, based on Robert A. Heinlein's novel, follows a group of fresh-faced recruits battling giant alien bugs in a fascist future. Let's suit up and see where the 1997 film cast is now, tracing the paths of these sci-fi actors from their star-making roles to their current careers!
Casper Van Dien (Johnny Rico)
Then: 29 years old
Now: 55 years old
Casper Van Dien rocketed to stardom as Johnny Rico, the idealistic recruit who becomes a hardened soldier. Starship Troopers was Van Dien's breakout role, showcasing his all-American looks and action hero potential.
Since then, Van Dien has had a prolific career in both film and television. He's appeared in numerous B-movies, reprised his role as Rico in the Starship Troopers animated sequels, and even tried his hand at directing.
Fun fact: Van Dien still gets recognised as Johnny Rico daily!
Did You Know?
The actors had to undergo a two-week military-style boot camp to prepare for their roles.
Dina Meyer (Dizzy Flores)
Then: 29 years old
Now: 55 years old
Dina Meyer played the tough-as-nails Dizzy Flores, who harboured a not-so-secret crush on Johnny Rico. Meyer brought a perfect blend of vulnerability and strength to the role.
Post-Starship Troopers, Meyer has enjoyed a steady career in television. She's had recurring roles in popular shows like Friends, Beverly Hills, 90210, and NCIS. She's also appeared in all the Saw films, cementing her status as a scream queen.
Denise Richards (Carmen Ibanez)
Then: 26 years old
Now: 53 years old
Denise Richards portrayed Carmen Ibanez, Johnny's high school sweetheart, who becomes a starship pilot. This role, along with Wild Things the following year, launched Richards into the Hollywood spotlight.
Richards went on to star in films like The World Is Not Enough and Love Actually. She's also ventured into reality TV, appearing on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. Recently, she's been active on OnlyFans and continues to act in various TV movies.
Trivia Time
The "bug planet" scenes were filmed in Wyoming, with temperatures reaching 115°F (46°C).
Neil Patrick Harris (Carl Jenkins)
Then: 24 years old
Now: 51 years old
Neil Patrick Harris played Carl Jenkins, the psychic intelligence officer with a calculating streak. This role was a departure from his Doogie Howser, M.D. days and showcased his range as an actor.
Since Starship Troopers, Harris has become a household name. He's starred in How I Met Your Mother, hosted award shows, and appeared on Broadway. He's also an accomplished magician and author. Talk about a multi-talented guy!
The film's visual effects, including the alien bugs, were groundbreaking for their time.
Jake Busey (Ace Levy)
Then: 26 years old
Now: 53 years old
Jake Busey brought comic relief as the wisecracking Ace Levy. With his distinctive grin and lanky frame, Busey was a memorable part of the ensemble cast.
Busey has continued to act steadily since Starship Troopers. He's appeared in films like The Predator and had recurring roles in TV shows such as Stranger Things and Ray Donovan. Like father, like son - Jake's keeping the Busey legacy alive in Hollywood!
Movie Fact
The film's power armour from the book was cut due to budget constraints, disappointing many fans.
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Michael Ironside (Jean Rasczak)
Then: 47 years old
Now: 74 years old
Veteran actor Michael Ironside brought gravitas to the role of Lieutenant Jean Rasczak, the tough-as-nails squad leader. His gruff delivery of lines like "Come on, you apes! You wanna live forever?" are etched in sci-fi history.
Ironside has remained a constant presence in film and TV. He's appeared in everything from The Machinist to X-Men: First Class. His distinctive voice has also made him a popular choice for video game voice acting. At 73, Ironside shows no signs of slowing down!
Clancy Brown (Career Sergeant Zim)
Then: 38 years old
Now: 65 years old
Clancy Brown portrayed the intimidating Career Sergeant Zim, who whips the recruits into shape. Brown's commanding presence and booming voice made him perfect for the role.
Since Starship Troopers, Brown has become one of the most prolific voice actors in the business. He's voiced characters in countless animated series and video games, including the iconic Mr. Krabs in SpongeBob SquarePants. On screen, he's had notable roles in Carnivàle and The Mandalorian.
Many critics initially panned the film, but it's since been reappraised as a satirical masterpiece.
Paul Verhoeven's sci-fi action, RoboCop
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Dean Norris (Commanding Officer)
Then: 34 years old Now: 61 years old
Dean Norris had a small but memorable role as the unnamed Commanding Officer who briefs the troops before their drop onto Klendathu. Though his screen time was limited, Norris brought authority to the role, foreshadowing his future as a character actor specialising in law enforcement and authority figures.
Since Starship Troopers, Norris has become a familiar face on both the big and small screens. He's best known for his role as DEA agent Hank Schrader in the critically acclaimed series Breaking Bad and its spin-off, Better Call Saul. Norris has also appeared in popular films like Little Miss Sunshine and The Book of Henry, and had a starring role in the TV series Under the Dome. His career has flourished, making him one of Hollywood's most reliable character actors.
Seth Gilliam (Sugar Watkins)
Then: 29 years old Now: 55 years old
Seth Gilliam played the role of Sugar Watkins, a tough soldier in Rico's unit. Gilliam brought a strong presence to the role, showcasing the camaraderie among the troops.
Since Starship Troopers, Gilliam has had a successful career in television. He's best known for his roles as Ellis Carver in The Wire, Dr. Alan Deaton in Teen Wolf, and Father Gabriel Stokes in The Walking Dead. Gilliam has shown his versatility as an actor, tackling diverse roles across different genres.
Patrick Muldoon (Zander Barcalow)
Then: 29 years old Now: 55 years old
Patrick Muldoon portrayed Zander Barcalow, a charming pilot and Carmen's love interest. Muldoon's character added to the complex relationships within the core group of friends.
After Starship Troopers, Muldoon continued his acting career in both film and television. He's appeared in numerous TV movies and had a recurring role in the soap opera Days of Our Lives. Muldoon has also ventured into producing, working on several independent films.
Looking back, it's amazing to see how Starship Troopers launched so many careers and has endured as a cult classic. Its blend of over-the-top action, biting satire, and memorable performances has kept fans coming back for more. Would you like to know more? I certainly do!
Frequently Asked Questions
How has Casper Van Dien's career evolved since Starship Troopers?
Casper Van Dien's career since Starship Troopers has seen him primarily associated with science fiction and action genres. He has starred in numerous B-movies throughout his career, maintaining a presence in the industry while carving out a niche for himself in genre films.
Why has Starship Troopers become a cult classic?
Starship Troopers has endured as a cult classic due to its unique blend of over-the-top action, biting satire, and memorable performances. Despite mixed critical reception upon its release, the film's commentary on fascism and militarism, combined with its visual spectacle, has led to continued discussion and appreciation over the years.
Is Starship Troopers a critique of fascism and militarism?
Many interpret Starship Troopers as a satirical critique of fascism and militarism. The film's exaggerated portrayal of a militaristic society, propaganda-style news broadcasts, and the unquestioning patriotism of its characters can be seen as a commentary on these ideologies. However, the interpretation remains a subject of debate among viewers and critics.
How have the career paths of Starship Troopers actors differed?
The cast of Starship Troopers have taken diverse paths in the entertainment industry. For example, Neil Patrick Harris has become a versatile actor, host, and Broadway star, while Denise Richards has appeared in reality TV and pursued other ventures. Casper Van Dien has continued in genre films, while others like Jake Busey have maintained steady careers in both film and television.
Does Starship Troopers glorify war or critique it?
The portrayal of violence and political ideology in Starship Troopers has been a subject of debate. Some argue that the film's over-the-top action sequences glorify war, while others see it as a satirical critique of militarism and propaganda. The film's ambiguous tone allows for multiple interpretations, contributing to its enduring discussion among fans and critics.
Glossary of Key Terms
- B-movie
- A low-budget, commercially-minded film often characterized by exploitative or sensational content.
- Breakout role
- A performance that brings an actor widespread recognition and elevates their career.
- Cult classic
- A film that gains a devoted following and cultural significance long after its initial release, often appreciated for its unconventional elements.
- Gravitas
- A quality of seriousness and dignity, often attributed to a performer's demeanour or a character's presence.
- OnlyFans
- A content subscription service primarily known for adult entertainment, but also used by creators in various other fields.
- Reality TV
- A genre of television programming that documents supposedly unscripted real-life situations, often starring unknown individuals.
- Scream queen
- An actress associated with the horror genre, typically known for playing characters terrorized or killed in slasher films.
- Satire
- The use of humour, irony, or exaggeration to expose and criticize societal vices or shortcomings.
- Science fiction
- A genre of speculative fiction that explores imaginative concepts related to science and technology, often set in the future.
- Voice acting
- The art of providing vocal performances for animated films, television shows, video games, and other media.
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