Where is the Cast of ‘Stand By Me’ Today?
When Stand by Me was released on August 22, 1986, no one could have guessed how deeply it would resonate for decades to come. The film, based on Stephen King‘s novella The Body, told the story of four young boys who set out on a journey to find a missing boy’s body in 1959 Oregon. Directed by Rob Reiner, the coming-of-age tale struck a chord with audiences thanks to its mix of nostalgia and unforgettable performances by a cast of then up-and-coming actors.
Nearly 40 years later, fans are still drawn to the timeless story of friendship and growing up, and the cast continues to be remembered and celebrated. Here’s a look at the cast in 2025.
Kiefer Sutherland (58)
Ace Merrill
Everett Collection; Darren Arthur/Getty Images for GEA
Sutherland went on to a wildly successful career, earning an Emmy for his intense work as Jack Bauer on 24 and following that with starring roles in Designated Survivor and several action films. In 2025, he’s set to appear in Sierra Madre and the comedy Tinsel Town.
Corey Feldman (54)
Teddy Duchamp
Everett Collection; Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images
Feldman was a teen superstar throughout the late ’80s, often alongside Corey Haim. He later moved into music and reality TV, while also becoming an advocate for child abuse survivors. His 2020 documentary My Truth: The Rape of 2 Coreys reignited conversations about child safety in Hollywood. Feldman continues to act in indie projects and perform music.
Wil Wheaton (53)
Gordie Lachance
Everett Collection; Maya Dehlin Spach/Getty Images
Wheaton went on to find continued fame as Wesley Crusher Star Trek: The Next Generation, and later with his appearances on The Big Bang Theory. He has also built a strong career as a writer, podcaster, and voice actor, with credits in shows like Family Guy and numerous video games. Beyond acting, Wheaton has been open about mental health struggles and is admired for his advocacy.
Jerry O’Connell (51)
Vern Tessio
Everett Collection; Theo Wargo/Getty Images
O’Connell was the youngest of the four main boys, only about 12 when he starred in the film. He went on to a long career that includes the sci-fi favorite Sliders, the hit movie Jerry Maguire and voice work in Star Trek: Lower Decks. He currently hosts the syndicated game show Pictionary and previously co-hosted CBS’s The Talk.
Richard Dreyfuss (77)
Adult Gordie (Narrator)
Everett Collection; Presley Ann/Getty Images for TCM
Dreyfuss was already a major star when he provided the narration for Stand by Me. Known for his work in Jaws, Close Encounters of the Third Kind and The Goodbye Girl (for which he won an Oscar), he later earned further acclaim for Mr. Holland’s Opus and has continued to work in film and television.
John Cusack (59)
Denny Lachance
Everett Collection; Bobby Bank/Getty Images
Cusack only appears briefly in the film as Gordie’s older brother, but his character is still quite important to the storyline. He became one of the most recognizable stars of the late 1980s and 1990s, starring in films including Say Anything… High Fidelity, and Being John Malkovich. Cusack continues to act, write, and produce, and he is active on social media where he often shares his political views.
Rob Reiner (78)
Director
Everett Collection; Jesse Grant/Getty Images for TCM
Reiner was already beloved for playing Michael “Meathead” Stivic on All in the Family before moving into directing. With Stand by Me, he proved his ability to handle heartfelt stories, and he followed it up with hits like When Harry Met Sally…, Misery and A Few Good Men. He continues to direct and produce films and is also well known for his political activism.
River Phoenix (d. 1993)
Chris Chambers
Everett Collection; Michael Tighe/Donaldson Collection/Getty Images
Phoenix’s performance as Chris remains one of the film’s most moving portrayals. He died tragically on October 31, 1993 at the age of 23 from a drug overdose outside The Viper Room in Los Angeles. His career was already flourishing, with lead roles in Running on Empty and My Own Private Idaho, and many believed he would become one of the great actors of his generation.
Stand By Me: Live Reunion Tour
For fans who want to relive the magic, Stand By Me: Live will bring together Wil Wheaton, Corey Feldman and Jerry O’Connell for a special tour. The event includes a screening of the film followed by a live conversation where the actors will share memories from making the movie.
Scheduled for December 2025 with stops in Concord, New Hampshire and Red Bank, New Jersey, the tour offers a chance to celebrate nearly 40 years of Stand by Me while honoring the enduring friendship at its heart and remembering the late River Phoenix.
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