Sixteen Candles holds a special place in the hearts of many. This iconic teen comedy, directed by John Hughes, made waves upon its release on May 4, 1984, capturing the essence of teenage life with its mix of humor and heartfelt moments.
Centered around a teenage girl, played by Molly Ringwald, who grapples with the heartache of being forgotten on her own birthday, the film became a classic that resonates with audiences even today.
The charm of Sixteen Candles lies not just in its storyline, but also in its memorable cast.
Featuring an ensemble of quirky characters, viewers are treated to delightful appearances from rising stars like John and Joan Cusack, Jami Gertz, and Zelda Rubinstein.
As the film celebrates its 40th anniversary, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the journey of its beloved cast, exploring where they are now and how this film made an impact on their careers.
See The Cast – Then vs Now
Molly Ringwald as Sam Baker
Molly Ringwald brought to life the character of Sam Baker in Sixteen Candles at the young age of 15. Sam is a relatable suburban teenager who faces the awkwardness and loneliness of her 16th birthday, a day her family forgets due to the excitement surrounding her sister’s wedding.
This film marked the start of Ringwald’s collaboration with director John Hughes. Following Sixteen Candles, she starred in other Hughes classics, including The Breakfast Club in 1985 and Pretty in Pink in 1986.
Career Highlights:
Film: Ringwald has had a steady career across various mediums for over forty years.
In the late ’80s and ’90s, she transitioned to more mature roles in films like:
- Teaching Mrs. Tingle (1999)
- Not Another Teen Movie (2001)
- Jem and the Holograms (2015)
- The Kissing Booth (2018)
Theater: Sam’s journey is mirrored in Ringwald’s stage performances, starring in notable Broadway shows such as:
- Cabaret
- Sweet Charity
Television: On the small screen, she took on:
- A role in ABC’s adaptation of The Stand (1994)
- Starred in The Secret Life of the American Teenager from 2008-2013
- A recurring role on Riverdale from 2017-2023
Aside from her acting career, Ringwald has ventured into French cinema, translated literary works, and released her debut album, Except Sometimes, in 2013.
Recently, she appeared in Ryan Murphy’s productions, including Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story on Netflix and Feud: Capote vs. The Swans on FX.
Now at 56, she balances her successful career with family life, being married to Panio Gianopoulos since 2007 and raising their three children.
Anthony Michael Hall as ‘Farmer’ Ted
At just 15 years old, Anthony Michael Hall brought the character of “Farmer” Ted to life in Sixteen Candles. Ted is a lovable geek who has a crush on Samantha, played by Molly Ringwald. Their chemistry was so strong that Hall was later cast alongside her in John Hughes’ iconic film, The Breakfast Club, in 1985.
That same year, he showcased his talent in Weird Science, further establishing himself as a talented young actor.
Hall continued to build his career with notable roles in films like Edward Scissorhands (1990) and Six Degrees of Separation (1993).
In 1994, he took a bold step by directing his debut film, Hail Caesar, which featured an impressive cast including Robert Downey Jr. and Samuel L. Jackson.
In the 2000s, Hall took on diverse roles in a variety of projects.
He appeared in The Dark Knight, Foxcatcher, and Live by Night.
His portrayal of Johnny Smith in the USA Network’s series The Dead Zone from 2002 to 2007 won him acclaim.
More recently, he had guest appearances in shows like Psych and The Goldbergs.
In 2021, he acted alongside Jamie Lee Curtis in Halloween Kills and has an upcoming role in the Netflix action thriller, Trigger Warning.
Despite a legal issue in 2016, Hall has continued his journey, marrying actress Lucia Oskerova in 2019, and they welcomed a son in 2022.
Michael Schoeffling as Jake Ryan
Michael Schoeffling captured hearts as Jake Ryan, the charming high school senior in Sixteen Candles. His portrayal of the dreamy teen earned him recognition on PEOPLE’s list of top teen movie heartthrobs in 2022.
Before stepping into this iconic role at just 23, Schoeffling had mostly focused on modeling. Following Sixteen Candles, he featured in several films from 1984 to 1991, including romantic roles in Mermaids alongside Winona Ryder and Wild Hearts Can’t Be Broken.
Gedde Watanabe as Long Duk Dong
Gedde Watanabe, a talented actor from Utah, brought to life the character Long Duk Dong in Sixteen Candles. This role sparked controversy upon its release, as critics highlighted the reliance on ethnic humor.
Prominent voices like the New York Times pointed out the film’s use of “notably unfunny ethnic jokes,” while Roger Ebert labeled Long Duk Dong a “potentially offensive stereotype.” Today, this character is often viewed as a blemish on what many consider a classic film.
Following Sixteen Candles, Watanabe continued to take on similar roles during the 1980s. His versatility soon shone through in the 1990s with appearances in popular films like Gremlins 2: The New Batch, Boys on the Side, That Thing You Do!, and Armageddon.
He also lent his voice to Ling in Disney’s animated hit Mulan.
Watanabe’s television career features guest spots on shows like Murphy Brown, Mad About You, and Seinfeld, leading to a recurring role on ER.
Most recently, he showcased his skills in Call Me Kat and The Sex Lives of College Girls.
Fans can look forward to his future in Netflix’s animated film Ultraman: Rising, arriving in June.
Haviland Morris as Caroline Mulford
Haviland Morris brought the character of Caroline Mulford to life in Sixteen Candles. Caroline is portrayed as Jake Ryan’s affluent and self-important girlfriend, a role that adds tension to the film’s storyline.
A notable scene involves Caroline getting heavily intoxicated at a party, leading to a controversial moment where Jake decides to leave her with Ted. This scenario has sparked discussions about the implications of consent in the film.
After her role in Sixteen Candles, Morris appeared in various TV shows like Family Ties and Tales from the Darkside. She landed another film part alongside Madonna in Who’s That Girl, showcasing her versatility.
Morris also reunited with Sixteen Candles co-star Gedde Watanabe in Gremlins 2: The New Batch.
Throughout her impressive career of over forty years, she has guest-starred in hit series, including Law & Order, Sex and the City, and Blue Bloods.
From 2001 to 2003, she played Clair Baxter on One Life to Live.
More recently, she lent her voice to a character in the animated series Gremlins: Secrets of the Mogwai.
Now 64, Morris juggles her time between acting and her successful career as a real estate broker in New York, while being a mother of two with her husband, Robert Score.
Blanche Baker as Ginny Baker
Blanche Baker brought her charm and talent to the role of Ginny Baker, the quirky older sister in Sixteen Candles. Before stepping into this iconic part, she had already made significant strides in her career.
Her portrayal in the NBC miniseries Holocaust earned her an Emmy Award, showcasing her ability to shine alongside Meryl Streep.
Additionally, she captivated audiences with her performance in Edward Albee’s adaptation of Lolita on Broadway in 1981, making her mark as a versatile actress.
In 1987, Blanche added another feather to her cap by originating the role of Shelby in the Off-Broadway premiere of Steel Magnolias, a part later famously played by Julia Roberts.
She has seamlessly transitioned between film and television since her Sixteen Candles fame. Notable projects include a supporting role in the film The Handmaid’s Tale and guest spots on shows like In the Heat of the Night and Law & Order.
Recently, she has taken on directing with her film Girl in a Glass Box, inspired by a novel she co-adapted.
At 67, she balances her professional life with raising her four children, reflecting her enduring passion for the arts and family.
Justin Henry as Sam’s Mischievous Brother
At the young age of 13, Justin Henry was already making waves in Hollywood, boasting two Golden Globe nominations and an Oscar nomination for his role in the 1979 film Kramer vs. Kramer.
He showcased his talent as Mike, the cheeky younger brother of Sam, in Sixteen Candles.
Throughout the 1980s, he continued to appear in various films before stepping back from acting to pursue his education.
He made his return to television in 1997 with a brief appearance on ER.
In 1998, he co-founded the Slamdunk Film Festival, promoting indie films.
In the early 2000s, he had roles on shows like ABC’s Brothers & Sisters.
Today, at 52, he serves as a strategic account manager for Telestream.
Paul Dooley as Sam’s Father
Paul Dooley’s portrayal of Jim Baker in Sixteen Candles showcases his talent among a long list of impressive roles.
Before and after this iconic part, Dooley has appeared in various well-known shows and films.
In the 1960s, he made guest appearances on classic comedies such as Get Smart and Bewitched.
His film credits include notable works like Robert Altman’s Popeye and Christopher Guest’s Waiting for Guffman. He also starred alongside Richard Gere and Julia Roberts in Runaway Bride.
Dooley reunited with Guest for A Mighty Wind in 2003 and For Your Consideration in 2006.
His remarkable performance in the musical Hairspray earned him a nomination for a Screen Actors Guild Award in 2007.
Throughout the ’90s and 2000s, he had numerous television roles, including hits like The Wonder Years, Mad About You, and Ally McBeal.
He also made memorable appearances in Desperate Housewives, Grey’s Anatomy, and Modern Family, and had recurring roles on ER and Curb Your Enthusiasm.
At 96 years old, Dooley is happily married to screenwriter Winnie Holzman. He is also the proud father of four children, including a daughter with Holzman.
In 2022, he published a memoir titled Movie Dad: Finding Myself and My Family, On Screen and Off.
Carlin Glynn as Sam’s Mother
Carlin Glynn brought warmth and charm to her role as Brenda Baker, the mother of Sam, in Sixteen Candles. Her career began with a notable appearance in Three Days of the Condor and soared with her Tony Award-winning performance in The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas.
In 1985, she shone in The Trip to Bountiful, directed by her husband, Peter Masterson.
The talented actress later acted alongside her family in Francis Ford Coppola’s Garden of Stone.
On television, she portrayed Lady Bird Johnson in the 1991 miniseries A Woman Named Jackie.
Glynn’s last role came in 2006 on Law & Order: Criminal Intent. Sadly, she passed away in 2023 at the age of 83.
The Grandparents in the Spotlight!
The charming grandparents in Sixteen Candles brought a delightful mix of humor and heart to the film. This quartet of seasoned actors added layers to the quirky family dynamic.
Edward Andrews was one of the standout performers, recognized for his iconic horn-rimmed glasses. With notable roles in classics like The Absent Minded Professor, his talent was undeniable. Andrews’ last appearance came in Gremlins, just after Sixteen Candles. Sadly, he passed away in 1985.
Another gem was Billie Bird. Before her role as one of Sam’s grandparents, she graced the screen in Barefoot in the Park and The Odd Couple. Bird became a favorite in 1980s comedies like Police Academy 4 and Ernest Saves Christmas, alongside a memorable recurring role on NBC’s Dear John. She even appeared in beloved films like Home Alone. Billie Bird lived a vibrant life until her passing in 2002 at the age of 94.
Carole Cook was a familiar face through her work on The Lucy Show and Here’s Lucy. Beyond her entertaining performances, she starred in American Gigolo and was active in television into her later years, with guest spots on Grey’s Anatomy. Carole Cook passed away in January 2023, having reached 98 years of age.
Lastly, Max Showalter showcased his talents in classic television shows like Leave It to Beaver and The Twilight Zone. Appearances in films such as Niagra enriched his career before he made his memorable mark in Sixteen Candles. Max Showalter passed on in 2000 at the age of 83.