In a nostalgic look back at the beloved 1987 romantic drama “Some Kind of Wonderful,” we explore the journeys of its cast members over the past 36 years. The film, directed by Howard Deutsch and written by John Hughes, has left a lasting impression on audiences, prompting curiosity about the fates of its stars.
Lea Thompson, who portrayed Amanda Jones, is now 61 years old. Since her rise to fame, she has starred in over 100 roles, including the iconic “Back to the Future” trilogy and the series “Switched at Birth,” where she played Catherine Kennish for 73 episodes. Thompson has also ventured into directing, contributing to shows like “The Goldbergs.”
Craig Sheffer, who played Hardy Jens, is now 62 and boasts a robust filmography that includes “A River Runs Through It” and “One Tree Hill.” John Ashton, cast as Cliff Nelson, has had a prolific career as well, with notable performances in “Beverly Hills Cop” and “Gone Baby Gone.” At 75, he continues to be remembered for his diverse roles.
Elias Koteas, who portrayed Duncan, has appeared in over 90 productions, including “Chicago PD,” while Molly Hagan, now 61, has had a successful career with roles in “Election” and “Walker.” Maddie Corman, who played Laura Nelson, has transitioned from child actor to a celebrated director and playwright.
Other notable cast members include Jane Elliott, now 76 and famous for her role in “General Hospital,” and Candace Cameron, who gained fame as DJ Tanner in “Full House” and is now 46. China Phillips, a member of Wilson Phillips, is now 55, and Eric Stoltz, who played Keith Nelson, has also made a name for himself behind the camera as a director.
The film itself is often seen as a reimagining of “Pretty in Pink,” with Hughes cleverly switching character roles and crafting a fresh narrative. As the cast reflects on their careers, fans of the film continue to cherish its themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery. What do you think of the film’s ending? Share your thoughts as we celebrate this timeless classic.