Jeff 'Chunk' Cohen: From Goonies to Grown-Up Icon
The Goonies: A Legacy of Adventure, Friendship, and Nostalgia
It's been 40 years since The Goonies captivated audiences with its thrilling tale of a group of kids on a perilous quest for hidden treasure. The iconic film, produced by the legendary Steven Spielberg, has become an instant classic that continues to inspire new generations of fans. And this week, one of the film's most beloved stars, Jeff Cohen (aka Chunk), made a surprise appearance in Beverly Hills, sending shockwaves of nostalgia throughout the entertainment industry.
Jeff, now 50 and working as a successful entertainment lawyer, was spotted sporting a sharp suit jacket, stylish jeans, and a maroon fedora - a far cry from his disheveled, ice cream-obsessed teen self. The once-lovable but clumsy Chunk has transformed into a suave and sophisticated adult, leaving fans wondering what happened to the chubby-cheeked kid who stole our hearts with the unforgettable Truffle Shuffle.
But Jeff's journey was not without its challenges. As he revealed in 2015, losing his "puppy fat" was the end of his acting career. With puberty came a transformation from Chunk to hunk, and Jeff found himself struggling to land roles as a teenager. The "fat kid" market was saturated with only a handful of actors who could pull off the look, making it difficult for Jeff to compete.
"It was survival of the fattest," Jeff said in an interview. "But when I hit puberty, it was a career ender for me. I was transforming from Chunk to hunk and I couldn’t get roles any more." The experience left Jeff heartbroken, feeling as though acting had given him up rather than the other way around.
Despite his personal struggles, Jeff's passion for acting never wavered. He went on to graduate from UC Berkeley and eventually co-founded the law firm Cohen Gardner LLP in 2002. As a partner at the firm, Jeff now represents some of Hollywood's most talented stars, including Ke Huy Quan (aka Data), who brought the hilarious character to life in The Goonies.
Speaking about his child star past, Jeff joked that his clients get a kick out of knowing their lawyer is none other than Chunk. "It's just silly and fun," he said with a chuckle. "I'm usually only the fifth most famous person in the room at any one time."
The Goonies gang has remained close over the years, and their bond shows no signs of weakening. In February, they reunited to celebrate Ke Huy Quan's incredible career, which began at just 12 years old in Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom. The ceremony was a testament to the enduring power of friendship and collaboration that defined their time on set.
As we look back on the legacy of The Goonies, it's clear that its impact extends far beyond the big screen. The film's themes of adventure, friendship, and determination continue to inspire new generations of fans. And while there may be no plans for a sequel just yet (Sean Astin has even declared that he's "1,000% certain" there will be one), the beloved characters remain etched in our collective consciousness.
So what's next for The Goonies gang? Josh Brolin, who played Brand in the film, has gone on to become a Hollywood A-lister, starring in blockbusters like No Country for Old Men and Avengers. Corey Feldman, aka Mouth, has released a documentary about his experiences as a child actor and continues to work in the industry.
Martha Plimpton, who played Stef, has become a respected actress and advocate for women's reproductive rights. Kerri Green, who played Andy, has transitioned from acting to running her own production company. And Jeff Cohen? Well, he's still going strong as an entertainment lawyer, representing some of the industry's most talented stars.
As we celebrate the 40th anniversary of The Goonies, one thing is clear: the treasure hunt may be over for now, but its legacy will live on forever.
The Truffle Shuffle Lives On
Jeff Cohen's iconic dance move has become a beloved part of pop culture history. And as he's grown older, Jeff has continued to perfect his shuffle - much to the delight of his clients and fans alike.
"I still do it for fun," Jeff said with a grin. "It brings back memories of being on set and having the best time with my friends." Who knows? Maybe one day we'll see a new generation of Goonies taking over the screen, bringing their own brand of adventure and excitement to audiences worldwide.
The Goonies: A Timeless Classic
Produced by Steven Spielberg and directed by Richard Donner (RIP), The Goonies has become an instant classic that continues to captivate audiences of all ages. With its themes of friendship, determination, and the power of imagination, it's no wonder why this film remains a staple of 80s cinema.
The movie follows a group of kids who stumble upon a long-lost treasure map and embark on a perilous quest to find the fortune of the notorious pirate One-Eyed Willy. Along the way, they face treacherous obstacles, including booby traps, treacherous caves, and a family of ruthless thieves intent on stealing their prize.
As we look back on The Goonies' enduring legacy, it's clear that its impact extends far beyond the big screen. This film has inspired countless fans to go out and seek adventure in their own lives, whether it's hiking through the mountains or exploring the depths of the ocean.
And as we celebrate 40 years since its release, one thing is clear: The Goonies will always be a timelessly classic tale of friendship, adventure, and determination.
