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Science and Technology
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Science and Technology
Source : (remove) : Parade
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Iconic '80s 'Weird Science' Stars Commemorate 40th Anniversary of Beloved Hit Film

Where Are the Stars of 'Weird Science' Now? A Look Back at the Iconic '80s Comedy

The 1985 film *Weird Science* remains a quintessential '80s teen comedy, blending sci-fi elements with adolescent fantasy in a way that captured the era's spirit of excess and innovation. Directed by John Hughes, the movie follows two awkward high schoolers who use a computer to create their dream woman, leading to a series of chaotic and hilarious adventures. Starring a mix of rising talents and established faces, the film not only launched careers but also left an indelible mark on pop culture. Decades later, fans often wonder what became of the cast who brought this wild story to life. From leading roles in blockbusters to quieter pursuits behind the scenes, the trajectories of these actors vary widely, reflecting the unpredictable nature of Hollywood. Let's dive into the post-*Weird Science* lives and careers of its key players, exploring how they've evolved since their days of creating digital dream girls and dodging over-the-top antics.

At the heart of the film are Gary Wallace and Wyatt Donnelly, the two nerdy protagonists played by Anthony Michael Hall and Ilan Mitchell-Smith, respectively. Anthony Michael Hall, who portrayed the wisecracking Gary, was already a teen icon by the time *Weird Science* hit theaters. Fresh off successes in other Hughes classics like *Sixteen Candles* and *The Breakfast Club*, Hall embodied the sarcastic, quick-witted sidekick archetype that defined much of '80s youth cinema. Following the film, Hall continued to build on his momentum, starring in *Out of Bounds* in 1986 and taking on more dramatic roles to shed his teen image. By the late '80s, he transitioned into edgier territory with films like *Johnny Be Good* opposite Robert Downey Jr., where he played a high school football star navigating corruption and fame. The '90s saw Hall diversify further; he appeared in *Edward Scissorhands* as the bullying antagonist Jim, showcasing his range beyond comedy. His television work picked up steam in the 2000s, most notably with a starring role in the USA Network series *The Dead Zone*, based on Stephen King's novel. Hall played Johnny Smith, a man who gains psychic abilities after a coma, earning critical acclaim for his portrayal over six seasons from 2002 to 2007. In recent years, Hall has embraced a mix of nostalgia and new projects. He reprised his *Breakfast Club* roots in cameos and appeared in films like *War Machine* with Brad Pitt and the horror thriller *Halloween Kills*, where he took on a more mature role. Outside of acting, Hall has dabbled in producing and directing, including work on short films and music videos. He's also been open about his personal growth, discussing past struggles with substance abuse in interviews, and now focuses on mentoring younger actors while maintaining a steady presence in indie cinema. At 55, Hall remains a beloved figure from the '80s, often attending fan conventions where he shares stories from his Hughes-era heyday.

Ilan Mitchell-Smith, who played the more reserved Wyatt, had a markedly different path after *Weird Science*. At just 16 during filming, Mitchell-Smith brought an innocent charm to the role, perfectly contrasting Hall's brashness. The film was one of his few major acting credits; he followed it with appearances in *The Chocolate War* in 1988 and a guest spot on *Superboy*. However, by the early '90s, Mitchell-Smith made a conscious decision to step away from Hollywood. Disillusioned with the industry's demands and seeking a more stable life, he pursued higher education. He earned a bachelor's degree in medieval studies from the University of California, Davis, and later a master's and Ph.D. in English from Texas A&M University. Today, at 54, Mitchell-Smith is a professor of medieval literature at California State University, Long Beach, where he specializes in chivalric romances and Arthurian legends. His academic career has been fulfilling, with publications on topics like medieval gaming and literature's intersection with modern media. Despite leaving acting behind, he hasn't entirely severed ties with his past. In 2015, he co-hosted a podcast called *Dissecting the '80s*, where he revisited films from his era with humor and insight. Mitchell-Smith has also made occasional returns to the screen, including a voice role in *The Goldbergs* and appearances at comic conventions. In interviews, he reflects fondly on *Weird Science* but emphasizes his satisfaction with academia, noting how it allows him to explore storytelling in a deeper, more intellectual way. His journey from teen star to scholar serves as a reminder that Hollywood isn't the only path to success.

No discussion of *Weird Science* would be complete without Kelly LeBrock, who stole the show as Lisa, the stunning, all-powerful creation of the boys' fantasies. LeBrock, a British model-turned-actress, was already known for her roles in *The Woman in Red* opposite Gene Wilder when she landed this part. Her portrayal of Lisa as both seductive and empowering made her an instant icon, with lines like "So, what would you little maniacs like to do first?" becoming cultural touchstones. Post-*Weird Science*, LeBrock continued in genre films, starring in *Hard to Kill* with then-husband Steven Seagal in 1990 and *Wrongfully Accused* in 1998. However, her career slowed in the late '90s as she prioritized family life. Married to Seagal from 1987 to 1996, she raised three children and stepped back from the spotlight to focus on motherhood. In the 2000s, LeBrock dealt with personal challenges, including a high-profile divorce and health issues, but she emerged resilient. She authored a book on wellness and beauty, *Kelly LeBrock: The Beauty Book*, sharing tips from her modeling days. More recently, at 63, LeBrock has made a comeback of sorts, appearing in indie films like *Charlie's Ghost Story* and guest-starring on shows such as *Growing Up Chrisley*. She's also active on social media, connecting with fans and advocating for animal rights and holistic living. LeBrock often speaks about the empowering aspects of her *Weird Science* role, crediting it with boosting her confidence in an industry that often objectified women. Her enduring appeal lies in how she transformed a potentially one-dimensional character into a symbol of female agency.

Supporting the main trio were memorable performances from actors like Bill Paxton, who played the obnoxious older brother Chet. Paxton's over-the-top antics, including his transformation into a grotesque creature, provided some of the film's biggest laughs. Already building a resume with roles in *The Terminator* and *Aliens*, Paxton used *Weird Science* as a stepping stone to a prolific career. He became a go-to actor for directors like James Cameron, starring in *Titanic* as the treasure hunter Brock Lovett and in *Twister* as storm chaser Bill Harding. Paxton's versatility shone in thrillers like *A Simple Plan* and TV series such as *Big Love*, where he earned Golden Globe nominations for playing a polygamist patriarch. Tragically, Paxton passed away in 2017 at age 61 due to complications from heart surgery. His legacy endures through his vast filmography and the warmth he brought to every role, with tributes from colleagues highlighting his kindness and professionalism.

Other notable cast members include Robert Downey Jr., who had a small but memorable role as Ian, one of the bullies. At the time, Downey was just starting out, and *Weird Science* was an early credit before his breakout in *Less Than Zero* and eventual superstardom as Iron Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Now 58, Downey has overcome well-documented personal struggles to become one of Hollywood's highest-paid actors, with recent ventures into producing via his company Team Downey. Suzanne Snyder, who played Deb, pursued a varied career in TV, appearing in *Seinfeld* and *Family Matters*, before shifting to voice work and teaching yoga. Judie Aronson, as Hilly, continued acting in films like *American Ninja* and now runs a Pilates studio.

Rounding out the ensemble is Michael Berryman, the mutant biker leader, known for his distinctive appearance in horror films like *The Hills Have Eyes*. Berryman, 74, remains active in genre cinema, advocating for actors with unique physical traits. Vernon Wells, another biker, gained fame as the villain in *Commando* and continues in action roles.

*Weird Science* may have been a product of its time, but its cast's diverse paths illustrate the many ways fame can unfold. From academia to blockbusters, their stories remind us of the film's lasting charm and the human journeys behind the screen. Whether revisiting the movie on streaming or catching up with the stars at reunions, the legacy of this '80s gem endures, proving that sometimes, a little weirdness goes a long way. (Word count: 1,248)

Read the Full Parade Article at:
[ https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/articles/iconic-80s-weird-science-stars-002003450.html ]