In a nostalgic look back at the iconic 1983 film “The Outsiders,” fans can now explore what has happened to the cast four decades later. The coming-of-age drama, adapted from S.E. Hinton’s novel, featured a talented ensemble that would go on to become Hollywood stars.
C. Thomas Howell, who portrayed Ponyboy Curtis at just 16 years old, is now 56 and has appeared in over 220 films and TV shows, including “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” and “Criminal Minds.” Matt Dillon, who played the tough Dallas “Dally” Winston, is now 58 and has amassed a diverse portfolio with roles in “Rumble Fish” and “There’s Something About Mary.”
Ralph Macchio, famously known as Johnny Cade, is now 61 and remains in the public eye through his work in the “Karate Kid” franchise. Patrick Swayze, who played Daryl Curtis, tragically passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2009 at the age of 57, leaving behind a legacy of iconic performances in films like “Dirty Dancing.”
The film also featured Rob Lowe as Sodapop Curtis, currently 58, and Emilio Estevez as Two-Bit Matthews, who is now 60 and celebrated for his roles in “The Breakfast Club” and “Young Guns.” Tom Cruise, who played Steve Randall, is now one of the highest-paid actors globally, with a career highlighted by films such as “Top Gun: Maverick.”
Diane Lane, now 57, continues to shine in her career with credits like “Under the Tuscan Sun,” while Leif Garrett, who played Bob Sheldon, is also 61 and known for his music career. Other cast members like Gaylord Sartain and Tom Waits have transitioned into art and music, respectively.
An intriguing update reveals that Danny Boy O’Connor, a member of the hip-hop group House of Payne, spearheaded a GoFundMe campaign to purchase and restore the Curtis family’s fictional home in Tulsa, Oklahoma. This effort has turned the residence into an Outsiders Museum, allowing fans to celebrate the film’s legacy and view rare memorabilia.
The journey of “The Outsiders” cast serves as a testament to the enduring impact of this classic film and its cultural significance across generations.