“That ’70s Show” captured the hearts of audiences from 1998 to 2006, giving us iconic characters, hilarious moments, and a healthy dose of nostalgia for a decade gone by. The cast brought each quirky character to life, and the show remains a fan favorite even years after it ended. But where is the cast now? How old were they when they started? And what have they been up to since the show’s finale? Let’s take a closer look at the beloved actors who made the show unforgettable.
The Original Cast of That ’70s Show
The core group of actors who played the teenagers of Point Place, Wisconsin, became household names thanks to That ’70s Show. Here’s a quick look at the main cast and their most memorable characters.
- Topher Grace as Eric Forman
- Mila Kunis as Jackie Burkhart
- Ashton Kutcher as Michael Kelso
- Laura Prepon as Donna Pinciotti
- Wilmer Valderrama as Fez
- Danny Masterson as Steven Hyde
This ensemble cast defined the show, with their chemistry and comedic timing making every episode a hit.
The Cast of That ‘70s Show Now
It’s been nearly two decades since That ’70s Show aired its final episode, and each actor has taken different paths in their careers and personal lives. Here’s what they’ve been up to.
Topher Grace (Eric Forman)
After leaving That ’70s Show in season 7, Topher Grace pursued a successful film career. He starred in notable movies such as Spider-Man 3, Interstellar, and BlacKkKlansman. Grace also made a return to television with roles in shows like Black Mirror and Home Economics.
Mila Kunis (Jackie Burkhart)
Mila Kunis’ career skyrocketed after That ’70s Show. She became a Hollywood A-lister, starring in films like Black Swan, Friends with Benefits, and Bad Moms. She also continues to voice Meg on Family Guy. In her personal life, she married fellow cast member Ashton Kutcher in 2015.
Ashton Kutcher (Michael Kelso)
Kutcher leveraged his comedic charm into a successful film and television career. He starred in popular comedies like Dude, Where’s My Car?, No Strings Attached, and Two and a Half Men. He also co-founded successful tech startups and remains involved in the business world.
Laura Prepon (Donna Pinciotti)
After That ’70s Show, Laura Prepon continued acting, landing a starring role in Netflix’s Orange Is the New Black. She has also written books and started a family. Prepon is now focused on balancing her career and motherhood.
Wilmer Valderrama (Fez)
Wilmer Valderrama has enjoyed steady success in both film and television since his days as Fez. He has appeared in shows like NCIS and voiced characters in animated films like Encanto. Valderrama is also known for his philanthropic efforts and involvement in various social causes.
Danny Masterson (Steven Hyde)
Masterson’s career took a different turn after the show, with roles in The Ranch and other projects. However, his legal issues in recent years have significantly impacted his public image and career.
Ages of the Cast When Season 1 Aired
When That ’70s Show premiered in 1998, the actors were quite young, which added authenticity to their portrayal of teenagers. Here’s a breakdown of their ages when season 1 aired:
- Topher Grace: 20 years old
- Mila Kunis: 14 years old (she famously lied about her age to get the role)
- Ashton Kutcher: 20 years old
- Laura Prepon: 18 years old
- Wilmer Valderrama: 18 years old
- Danny Masterson: 22 years old
Memorable Side Characters: Leo and Midge
While the core group of teens was central to That ’70s Show, a few side characters became fan favorites.
Tommy Chong as Leo
Tommy Chong brought his signature stoner persona to the role of Leo, a laid-back hippie who runs the local photo hut. His character added a fun, surreal element to the show, with Leo often providing comic relief in otherwise tense moments. Chong, already a comedy legend thanks to his Cheech & Chong movies, continued working in comedy and even reprised his role in the Netflix revival, The Ranch.
Tanya Roberts as Midge Pinciotti
Midge, Donna’s flighty and flirtatious mother, was played by actress Tanya Roberts. Midge often provided comic relief with her ditsy behavior, especially in her interactions with her husband, Bob. Tragically, Roberts passed away in 2021, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances in both television and film, including her iconic role as a Bond girl in A View to a Kill.
The Death of Beloved Cast Members
Over the years, the That ’70s Show family has experienced loss, with the passing of some key cast members.
Tanya Roberts (Midge Pinciotti)
Tanya Roberts passed away in January 2021 at the age of 65. Her death was met with an outpouring of grief from fans and colleagues alike. She had retired from acting years prior, but her role on That ’70s Show remains a cherished part of her career.
Lisa Robin Kelly (Laurie Forman)
Lisa Robin Kelly, who played Eric’s troublemaking sister Laurie, tragically passed away in 2013 at the age of 43. Kelly struggled with personal issues during and after the show, leading to her untimely death. Her character was briefly recast before being written out of the show.
Mitch, Laurie, Fez, and Hyde: Where Are They Now?
Josh Meyers as Randy Pearson (Mitch)
Josh Meyers joined That ’70s Show as Randy Pearson (often referred to as Mitch) in the final season, after Topher Grace’s departure. Meyers went on to have a steady career in comedy and television, with roles in shows like MADtv and movies such as Date Movie.
Lisa Robin Kelly (Laurie Forman)
As mentioned earlier, Lisa Robin Kelly’s tragic death in 2013 left a mark on fans who adored her as the devious Laurie Forman. She was replaced by Christina Moore for part of the series, but no one could truly fill her shoes.
Wilmer Valderrama as Fez
Fez, the foreign exchange student with a mysterious origin, was played by Wilmer Valderrama. Since then, Valderrama has become a staple on TV, especially in action dramas like NCIS. He also enjoys success as a producer and activist.
Danny Masterson as Hyde
Danny Masterson’s portrayal of the rebellious, conspiracy-loving Hyde remains a fan favorite. However, recent allegations and legal proceedings have complicated his legacy, and he is no longer active in Hollywood.
Conclusion: The Legacy of That ’70s Show
That ’70s Show remains one of the most beloved sitcoms in television history, largely due to the cast’s unforgettable performances. As the years pass, fans continue to follow their favorite stars and revisit the classic episodes that made them laugh. Though some cast members have passed on or faced legal troubles, their impact on popular culture endures.
FAQs
1. What happened to the cast of That ’70s Show?
Most of the cast members have continued successful careers in film and television. However, some, like Danny Masterson, have faced legal issues, and others, like Lisa Robin Kelly and Tanya Roberts, have tragically passed away.
2. Are Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher still married?
Yes, Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher, who met on the set of That ’70s Show, are still married and have two children together.
3. Who played Leo in That ’70s Show?
Leo, the loveable hippie, was played by comedian Tommy Chong.
4. Why did Topher Grace leave That ’70s Show?
Topher Grace left That ’70s Show to pursue a film career, though he returned for the series finale.
5. How old was Mila Kunis in That ’70s Show?
Mila Kunis was just 14 years old when she was cast as Jackie Burkhart, making her the youngest member of the main cast.
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