5 Things Worth Knowing About That '70s Show Cast Now
The cast’s collective trajectory reveals as much about Hollywood’s evolution as it does about their personal ambitions. Their careers post-That '70s Show offer lessons in adaptability, the challenges of maintaining relevance, and the unexpected ways nostalgia can fuel new opportunities.1. Asa Butler and the Business of Reinvention
Asa Butler, who played the perpetually stoned Hyde, has become one of the most commercially successful members of that '70s show cast now. His career took a sharp turn after the show ended, with roles in films like The Longest Yard (2005) and The Hangover (2009), where his comedic timing cemented his status as a go-to character actor. Butler’s ability to balance typecasting with versatility—appearing in everything from The Walking Dead to The Expendables—demonstrates how some cast members have turned their niche appeal into a sustainable brand. Beyond acting, Butler has ventured into production, co-founding the company Butler Entertainment, which has produced projects ranging from reality TV to feature films. His financial success, while not publicly disclosed, is estimated to place him among the higher-earning members of the original ensemble. The key to his longevity? A willingness to embrace roles that play to his strengths while occasionally taking risks, like his dramatic turn in The Last Ship (2014–2018).2. Topher Grace’s Highs and Lows
Topher Grace, the show’s breakout star as Eric Forman, had one of the most volatile trajectories among that '70s show cast now. His post-series career was marked by both critical acclaim and industry missteps. Grace’s early 2000s roles in Spider-Man (2002) and Confessions of a Dangerous Mind (2002) showcased his dramatic range, but his later years were plagued by legal troubles, including a 2014 arrest for possession of marijuana and a 2016 DUI. These incidents overshadowed his later work, such as his voice role in The Simpsons (2015) and his return to TV in The Ranch (2016–2020). Despite the setbacks, Grace has shown signs of reinvention. He co-wrote and starred in the 2021 film The Last Movie Star, a semi-autobiographical drama that hinted at a more introspective phase. His relationship with the That '70s Show legacy remains complicated—he has spoken openly about the pressures of fame and the difficulty of escaping typecasting. Yet, his ability to return to the spotlight, even briefly, proves that the show’s cultural footprint still carries weight.3. Mila Kunis and the Power of Selectivity
Mila Kunis, who played Jackie Burkhart, has arguably had the most high-profile career among that '70s show cast now. While her early roles in the series were groundbreaking for a young actress, her post-70s journey is a masterclass in strategic career moves. Kunis deliberately distanced herself from the show’s shadow, focusing on film roles that challenged her range—from the romantic comedy Forgetting Sarah Marshall (2008) to the dramatic Black Swan (2010), which earned her an Oscar nomination. Her partnership with husband Ashton Kutcher also became a career catalyst, with the duo producing projects through their company Kutcher Productions. Kunis’s decision to take on fewer roles in recent years—prioritizing quality over quantity—has kept her relevant without overcommitting. She has also used her platform for advocacy, particularly around gender equality in Hollywood. Unlike some of her co-stars, Kunis’s career arc suggests that the right balance of visibility and selectivity can outlast even the most iconic TV roles.4. Danny Masterson’s Legal and Cultural Reckoning
Danny Masterson’s story among that '70s show cast now is the most polarizing. His portrayal of Steve Hyde, Hyde’s brother, made him a fan favorite, but his real-life actions—convicted in 2022 of sexual assault—have led to a reckoning with his legacy. The case against Masterson, involving allegations from multiple women, forced a reckoning not just for him but for the entire franchise. That '70s Show producers later addressed the issue in a 2023 documentary, That '70s Show: The Reckoning, which examined how the industry failed to hold him accountable earlier. Masterson’s legal troubles have effectively ended his acting career, though he has not publicly commented on his future. His case serves as a stark reminder of how the personal and professional lives of that '70s show cast now members are intertwined—and how the show’s cultural impact can be both a shield and a vulnerability.5. The Collective’s Nostalgia Economy
The original cast has capitalized on nostalgia in varied ways, from reunions to new projects. In 2019, the cast reunited for That '70s Show Reunion, a one-night special that drew massive ratings, proving the show’s enduring appeal. More recently, FX announced a revival series, That '70s Show: The Return, set to premiere in 2024, with most of the original cast returning. This move underscores how that '70s show cast now continues to leverage their shared history, even as individual careers have diverged. Beyond TV, the cast has engaged with fans through social media, podcasts, and even a That '70s Show audiobook adaptation of the series. Their ability to monetize nostalgia—without relying solely on their past—highlights a broader trend in Hollywood, where legacy properties are repurposed for new audiences. For some, like Debra Jo Rupp (Laurie Forman), this has meant a quieter retirement; for others, like Laura Prepon (Donna Pinciotti), it’s opened doors to new creative ventures, including writing and directing.
How These Facts Connect
The paths of that '70s show cast now reveal a tension between individual ambition and the gravitational pull of their shared legacy. Butler and Kunis, for instance, have turned their fame into platforms for diverse careers, while Grace’s struggles highlight the risks of failing to adapt. Masterson’s case, meanwhile, forces a conversation about accountability and how public figures navigate personal scandals in an era of heightened scrutiny. What’s striking is how the show’s themes—friendship, growing up, and the search for identity—parallel the cast’s own journeys. The series was, at its core, about a group of misfits navigating adulthood; two decades later, its cast members are doing the same, albeit with more resources and public expectations. Their stories also reflect broader industry shifts: the rise of streaming has made nostalgia-driven revivals viable, while social media has turned former child stars into brands. The cast’s collective ability to stay relevant, despite the inevitable passage of time, speaks to the show’s cultural staying power.| Member | Post-70s Career Focus | Notable Reinvention | Legacy Challenge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asa Butler | Comedy, production | Transitioned from stoner archetype to action-comedy roles | Balancing typecasting with dramatic work |
| Topher Grace | Film, voice acting | Autobiographical drama (The Last Movie Star) | Overcoming legal and personal setbacks |
| Mila Kunis | Film, producing | Oscar-nominated roles, selective project choices | Escaping teen-idol typecasting |
| Danny Masterson | — (legal issues) | Forced reckoning with public image | Industry accountability and redemption |
Conclusion
The that '70s show cast now embodies the paradox of Hollywood stardom: the same qualities that make a role iconic can also become shackles. Their stories are a microcosm of how fame reshapes lives—some thrive by reinventing themselves, others struggle with the weight of legacy, and a few face consequences that redefine their public personas. The upcoming revival signals that the show’s cultural DNA remains potent, but the cast’s individual trajectories suggest that true longevity comes from more than just nostalgia. What’s clear is that that '70s show cast now has become a case study in how to navigate the transition from teen heartthrobs to mature artists. For some, it’s been a smooth arc; for others, a series of highs and lows. But all of them, in their own ways, continue to shape the conversation about what it means to grow up in the spotlight.Comprehensive FAQs
Q: Are any members of the original cast still actively working in Hollywood?
A: Yes. Asa Butler remains one of the most active, with recent roles in The Last Ship and The Expendables. Mila Kunis has taken a more selective approach but continues to star in high-profile films. Laura Prepon has pivoted to writing and directing, while Debra Jo Rupp has largely retired from acting. Topher Grace has had a resurgence with The Ranch and his semi-autobiographical film.
Q: How has the That '70s Show revival affected the cast’s careers?
A: The revival has reignited interest in the franchise, giving the cast a chance to reconnect with fans and potentially attract new audiences. For some, like Kurtwood Smith (Red Forman), it’s a return to form; for others, it’s an opportunity to address past controversies, such as Danny Masterson’s legal issues, which the revival’s producers have acknowledged.
Q: What was Danny Masterson’s role in the That '70s Show revival?
A: Masterson was originally set to return for the revival but was excluded due to his ongoing legal troubles. The show’s producers have stated that his absence was not a statement on his character’s legacy but a practical decision given the circumstances. His exclusion has sparked discussions about how the entertainment industry handles allegations of misconduct.
Q: Has any member of the cast pursued politics or activism?
A: Mila Kunis has been vocal about gender equality in Hollywood, while Laura Prepon has been involved in LGBTQ+ advocacy. Asa Butler has occasionally spoken about social issues, though none of the cast have pursued formal political careers. Their activism tends to focus on industry-related causes rather than partisan politics.
Q: Which member of the cast has the most successful post-70s career?
A: By most industry metrics, Mila Kunis has had the most successful post-70s career, with Oscar nominations, a producing company, and a reputation as one of Hollywood’s most bankable stars. Asa Butler follows closely, with a steady stream of high-profile roles and production credits. Topher Grace’s career has been more volatile, marked by both critical acclaim and personal challenges.
Q: Are there any rumors of a spin-off or new projects involving the cast?
A: Beyond the revival, there have been discussions about a That '70s Show audiobook adaptation and potential spin-offs exploring the characters’ lives post-high school. Laura Prepon has expressed interest in developing a project centered on Donna Pinciotti’s backstory, though no concrete plans have been announced.
Q: How has social media changed the dynamics of that '70s show cast now?
A: Social media has allowed the cast to maintain direct engagement with fans, but it has also amplified scrutiny. Topher Grace, for instance, has faced backlash for past behavior, while Mila Kunis uses her platforms to advocate for causes. The cast’s collective online presence has turned them into a brand, with some members more active than others in leveraging their nostalgia for new opportunities.
