In a nostalgic look back at the beloved 1984 coming-of-age film “Sixteen Candles,” the cast’s journeys are revisited 38 years later. Originally directed by John Hughes, the film introduced audiences to a unique blend of humor and teenage angst, setting the stage for Hughes’ iconic career.

Molly Ringwald, who starred as Samantha, was just 16 at the time of filming. Now 54, the actress has expanded her repertoire to include notable roles in “The Breakfast Club,” “Pretty in Pink,” and “Riverdale,” where she played Mary Andrews for 27 episodes. Anthony Michael Hall, who portrayed Ted “The Geek,” also started young at 16 and is now 54, boasting nearly 100 acting credits, with memorable performances in “Weird Science” and “The Dead Zone.”

Michael Schoeffling, who played the heartthrob Jake, has taken a different path since his role at age 23, retiring from acting in 1991 to craft handcrafted furniture. Haviland Morris and Gedde Watanabe, who played Caroline and Long Duk Dong respectively, have continued to make their mark in the industry, with Morris appearing in “Home Alone 3” and Watanabe lending his voice to the animated “Mulan.”

The film also featured Paul Dooley as Jim Baker, who at 56, has amassed over 200 credits, and the late Edward Andrews as Grandpa Howard, who passed away shortly after the film’s release. The legacy of “Sixteen Candles” continues to resonate, reminding fans of the relatable struggles of adolescence.

As viewers reminisce about their favorite moments and characters, the impact of John Hughes’ work remains undeniable, inspiring countless films that explore the teenage experience. What was your favorite John Hughes film? Share your thoughts as we celebrate the enduring charm of “Sixteen Candles” and its cast.