“Hey You Guys!” – Celebrating 40 Years of The Goonies

By CARPE

How a Ragtag Group of Misfits Became Cultural Legends

The Birth of a Treasure-Hunting Classic

On June 7, 1985, audiences were first introduced to The Goonies—a group of misfit kids from Astoria, Oregon, who embark on a wild adventure to find pirate treasure and save their homes from foreclosure. Directed by Richard Donner, written by Chris Columbus from a story by Steven Spielberg, the film blended childlike wonder with thrilling escapades, launching it into the hearts of millions.

Four decades later, The Goonies is more than a movie—it’s a rite of passage, a pop culture touchstone, and proof that sometimes, “Goonies never say die.”

Where Are the Goonies Now?

The cast, many of whom were child actors at the time, have gone on to lead diverse lives—some staying in the spotlight, others moving behind the scenes or onto entirely new careers.

• Sean Astin (Mikey Walsh)
  Astin went on to star in iconic roles, most notably Samwise Gamgee in The Lord of the Rings trilogy. He has remained active in film and television, including roles in Stranger Things and voice work in animation.
• Josh Brolin (Brand Walsh)
  Now an Oscar-nominated actor, Brolin has taken on major roles in No Country for Old Men, Deadpool 2, and as the MCU’s formidable Thanos in Avengers: Infinity War and Endgame.
• Corey Feldman (Mouth)
  A staple of 1980s teen cinema, Feldman appeared in Stand by Me and The Lost Boys. In recent years, he’s become an outspoken advocate for child actors’ rights and continues to work in music and film.
• Jeff Cohen (Chunk)
  Cohen famously played the lovable, clumsy Chunk. He left acting after childhood, went to law school, and is now a successful entertainment lawyer. Fittingly, his firm has represented fellow Goonies alumni.
• Ke Huy Quan (Data)
  After appearing in Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom and The Goonies, Quan took a long hiatus from acting. In a triumphant return, he won an Academy Award for Everything Everywhere All At Once in 2023.
• Kerri Green (Andy)
  Green continued acting into the late ’80s and early ’90s before stepping back from Hollywood. She later co-founded a film production company and has kept a low profile.
• Martha Plimpton (Stef)
  Plimpton transitioned to a successful career in television and stage, earning Emmy and Tony nominations. She’s been a strong advocate for women’s rights and reproductive freedom.
• Richard Donner (Director)
  Donner, whose filmography includes Superman, Lethal Weapon, and Scrooged, passed away in 2021 at the age of 91. He remains a beloved figure in the film industry, remembered for his generosity and creative spirit.
• Steven Spielberg (Story/Executive Producer)
  One of Hollywood’s most influential figures, Spielberg has continued to shape cinema with films like Schindler’s List, Saving Private Ryan, and The Fabelmans. His fingerprints are forever embedded in the DNA of The Goonies.

The Enduring Legacy of The Goonies

Even after 40 years, The Goonies continues to inspire new generations. The film’s themes of friendship, bravery, and resilience still resonate in today’s world. It’s a love letter to childhood exploration and believing in the impossible. Whether through annual fan pilgrimages to Astoria or the continued popularity of the film on streaming platforms, the Goonies spirit lives on.

The line “Goonies never say die” has become a cultural mantra—used in everything from sports chants to fan tattoos. The film’s influence can be seen in modern media like Stranger Things, Super 8, and even Guardians of the Galaxy—all drawing inspiration from the mix of youthful curiosity and high-stakes adventure.

Looking Ahead: Is a Sequel Still Possible?

Rumours of a sequel have circulated for decades, with varying levels of seriousness. While no official follow-up has materialised, fans remain hopeful. In 2020, a tribute project featuring re-enactments of The Goonies scenes was developed for Fox, demonstrating the story’s lasting appeal and creative versatility. The closest thing to a sequel may just be the lives of its fans—those who discovered their own “One-Eyed Willy’s treasure” in friendships, adventures, and a belief in magic sparked by a little movie that reminded us what it means to dream big

Final Thoughts

The Goonies isn’t just a film—it’s a legacy. Forty years later, its characters still charm, its jokes still land, and its heart still beats strong. Whether you’re watching it for the first time or the 40th, it remains a thrilling reminder that sometimes, the greatest treasure of all is friendship.

So raise a Baby Ruth in celebration and remember: Goonies never say die.