Overboard (1987) Key Cast: Then and Now
The iconic romantic comedy "Overboard" (1987) starred established leads and supporting actors. Here's a look at the main cast's journeys since the film's release.
Goldie Hawn (Joanna Stayton/Annie Proffitt)
Then: Already an Oscar winner ("Cactus Flower"), Hawn was a major comedy star in the 80s. Her role as the amnesiac heiress forced to live as a working-class mom cemented her status.
What Happened Next: She remained active throughout the 90s and early 2000s in films like "The First Wives Club", "The Banger Sisters", and "Death Becomes Her". She took a significant acting hiatus after 2002 but returned to star opposite Amy Schumer in 2017's "Snatched". She remains a prominent figure through her family life (with longtime partner Kurt Russell), the Hawn Foundation (educational programs), and occasional producing roles.
Kurt Russell (Dean Proffitt)
Then: Kurt Russell, already a versatile actor with a notable Disney past and action/sci-fi roles ("Escape from New York", "The Thing"), solidified his leading man status and impeccable comedic timing with "Overboard". His chemistry with Goldie Hawn was undeniable.
What Happened Next: Russell continued a diverse and prolific career. He starred in major hits like "Tombstone", "Stargate", "Executive Decision", "Breakdown", and "Miracle". He joined franchises such as "Fast & Furious" and Marvel's "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2". He maintains a steady presence in film, collaborating frequently with Quentin Tarantino ("Death Proof", "The Hateful Eight", "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood"). His long-term relationship with Goldie Hawn continues.
Edward Hermann (Grant Stayton III)
Then: Hermann played Joanna's wealthy but ultimately cowardly husband. He was well-known for television roles ("The Rockford Files") and his distinct voice.
What Happened Next: Hermann enjoyed a long and distinguished career, most famously as Richard Gilmore on "Gilmore Girls". He appeared in numerous films ("Nixon", "The Aviator") and TV shows, and was a highly regarded voice actor/narrator for documentaries (winning an Emmy). Tragically, Edward Hermann passed away from brain cancer in 2014.
Roddy McDowall (Andrew)
Then: McDowall played Andrew, Joanna's loyal butler aboard her yacht. He was a prolific character actor with a career spanning decades ("Planet of the Apes" franchise).
What Happened Next: McDowall remained extremely active in both film and television throughout the 90s. He reprised his famous role as Galen in the TV series "Planet of the Apes" (1974) and continued voice work. He was a respected figure in Hollywood, known for his photography of peers. He passed away in 1998 from lung cancer.
Michael G. Hagerty (Billy Pratt)
Then: Hagerty played Billy Pratt, one of Dean's friends.
What Happened Next: Hagerty became a highly recognizable character actor, particularly known for his recurring role as Mr. Treeger, the building superintendent, on "Friends". He appeared in numerous TV shows and films over decades. He passed away in May 2022 at the age of 67.
Key Supporting Cast Updates
- Jared Rushton (Charlie Proffitt): Played Dean's young son. After significant child/teen roles ("Big", "Honey, I Shrunk the Kids"), he stepped away from acting in the mid-90s. He pursued other ventures, largely staying out of the public eye.
- Jeffrey Wiseman (Matt Proffitt): Played Dean's youngest son. Primarily a child actor; retired from acting soon after "Overboard". Maintains private life.
- Katherine Helmond (Edith Mintz): Played Dean's mother-in-law. A beloved TV actress ("Soap", "Who's the Boss?", "Everybody Loves Raymond"). Passed away in 2019 from complications of Alzheimer's disease.
- Brian Price (Greg Proffitt): Played Dean's middle son. Also primarily a child actor; retired after the 80s.
