The Heavenly Kid (1985) Cast: Then and Now
Recently, curiosity about the talented cast got the best of me. "Where are they now?" Have they gone on to amaze? Or faded entirely? My nostalgic hunt through their lives and careers after appearing in The Heavenly Kid proved fascinating.
Do you remember The Heavenly Kid from 1985? That heartwarming flick about a young boy befriending an oddball window washer after dying? It stuck with me over the years—pure magic that made me feel all the feels as a kid. Whenever I think back, wonderful memories come flooding back. I can picture the quirky characters and inventive story vividly.
Let's reminisce about this cast of characters from one of the most delightfully offbeat 80s movies. Who knows what gems we may dig up?
Lewis Smith as Bobby Fontana
Then (Age in 1985): 29 years old
Now: 68 years old
After portraying the unforgettable Bobby Fontana in The Heavenly Kid, Lewis Smith continued to grace both the big and small screens. His acting prowess led him to projects like "Renegades", "Midnight Caller," "Wyatt Earp," "Southern Comfort" and "The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension," cementing a steady career spanning decades.
Jason Gedrick as Lenny Barnes
Then (Age in 1985): 21 years old
Now: 59 years old
Jason Gedrick's poignant performance as the troubled Lenny Barnes left a mark on audiences. Following his breakthrough role, he embarked on a successful journey, starring in films such as: "Backdraft" and "Geronimo" by Walter Hill, as well as acclaimed shows like "Bosch" and "Dexter," solidifying his status as a versatile actor.
Jane Kaczmarek as Emily Barnes
Then (Age in 1985): 29 years old
Now: 69 years old
Jane Kaczmarek's heartfelt portrayal of the devoted mother, Emily Barnes, resonated with viewers. While her role in The Heavenly Kid was memorable, she is perhaps best known for her iconic performance as Lois on the hit sitcom "Malcolm in the Middle."
Richard Mulligan as Rafferty
Then (Age in 1985): 52 years old
Now: Deceased (1932-2000), aged 67
Richard Mulligan's charm and comedic timing brought the character of Rafferty to life. An acclaimed actor, he won an Emmy for his work on the sitcom "Soap," cementing his legacy as a beloved television presence. Mulligan also appeared in 1970's Little Big Man as General Cluster alongside Dustin Hoffman.
Mark Metcalf as Joe Barnes
Then (Age in 1985): 39 years old
Now: 78 years old
Mark Metcalf's portrayal of the stern yet loving father, Joe Barnes, added depth to the family dynamic. Fans may also recognise him from his memorable roles in "Animal House" and "One Crazy Summer," showcasing his versatility as an actor. He later appeared in cameo roles in notable series such as Touched by an Angel, Melrose Place, and Buffy the Vampire Slayer, to name just a few.
Nancy Valen as Melissa
Then (Age in 1985): 20 years old
Now: 59 years old
Nancy Valen made her film debut as Melissa in The Heavenly Kid. She went on to appear in various television shows and movies throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Her most notable role was as Samantha Thomas in Baywatch during the 1996–97 season.
For the boys...
Beau Dremann as McIntyre
Then (Age in 1985): 21 Years Old
Now: 60 Years old
Beau Dremann brought the character of McIntyre to life in The Heavenly Kid. Beau may not have lit up the big screen in the years that followed, but he has still appeared in TV series such as "Heroes," "Prison Break," "Monk," "Jericho," and "Life," albeit in cameo roles.
Stephen Gregory as Gallo
Then (Age in 1985): 20 Years Old
Now: 59 Years Old
Stephen Gregory portrayed the role of Gallo in the movie. Stephens crowning career achievement came in the role of Chase Benson, in the hit soap opera "The Young and the Restless.". Stephen appeared in 94 episodes between 1988 and 1991. More recently, he appeared in Law and Order: Special Victims Unit.
As we wrap up our stroll down memory lane, revisiting The Heavenly Kid and its ensemble of talented stars, it's amazing how much this quirky 1985 film still resonates all these years later. From Lewis Smith's unforgettable portrayal of bright-eyed Bobby to the heartwarming family dynamic brought to life by actors like Jane Kaczmarek and Mark Metcalf, the magic of this movie endures.
As we close the book on this nostalgic journey, one truth rings clear: The Heavenly Kid left a permanent mark, punctuated by a stellar cast whose characters still fill us with warmth and whimsy decades later. Though their paths may have diverged, we'll always have that heartwarming dose of '80s cinematic wonder to revisit whenever we need it most.
The Heavenly Kid was a charming and heartwarming film that explored themes of family, friendship, and the afterlife. The talented cast brought these characters to life and left a lasting impression on audiences. It's always fascinating to see what these actors have accomplished in the decades since this beloved 1980s classic.
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