The Unbelievable Journey of the Freaks And Geeks Cast: Where Are They Now?

Summary

The cast of Freaks and Geeks featured talented young actors who have since achieved great success in Hollywood, including Linda Cardellini, Martin Starr, and Busy Philipps, all of whom have had illustrious careers.

Judd Apatow, the executive producer of Freaks and Geeks, kickstarted the film careers of Seth Rogen and Jason Segel and also gave James Franco a comedic role during his Spider-Man fame.

Following their time on Freaks and Geeks, every actor in the cast, which includes Linda Cardellini, John Francis Daley, Jason Segel, Busy Philipps, James Franco, Seth Rogen, Martin Starr, and Samm Levine, has gone on to achieve great success in both television and film.

The cast of Freaks and Geeks is filled with eccentric and extraordinary characters portrayed by young actors who would later achieve tremendous stardom. Paul Feig, the director of the highly acclaimed film Bridesmaids, created this series that delves into the challenging high school lives of two different groups of social outcasts in 1980. Unlike typical teen dramas, Freaks and Geeks received substantial praise for realistically portraying the teenage experience. Regrettably, the show struggled with ratings and lasted only one season, but it continues to be cherished as a cult classic.

Almost everyone in the main cast of Freaks and Geeks went on to achieve great success in Hollywood. Linda Cardellini secured a prominent role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Martin Starr delivered an unforgettable performance in Silicon Valley, and Busy Philipps became a beloved TV personality. Judd Apatow, the show's executive producer, is renowned for his outstanding movies, and he played a significant role in launching the film careers of many cast members from Freaks and Geeks. Apatow supported the debut screenplays of Seth Rogen and Jason Segel while also casting James Franco in a subversively comedic role in Pineapple Express during his Spider-Man heyday.

Linda Cardellini As Lindsay Weir

Linda Cardellini portrays Lindsay Weir, the protagonist at the center of the Freaks and Geeks cast. Initially portrayed as a gifted and diligent student, Lindsay undergoes a transformation following her grandmother's passing, seeking to redefine herself by joining the "freaks." As time passes, Lindsay becomes less focused on her academics and becomes more intrigued by rebellion. Although initially intimidated by the group, she eventually becomes one of them.

Following her role in Freaks and Geeks, Cardellini went on to portray Velma in the live-action Scooby-Doo films, as well as the character Laura Barton, Hawkeye's wife and former S.H.I.E.L.D. agent, in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). In addition to these roles, she also lends her voice to the character Lylla the otter in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. Other notable television roles include Samantha Taggart in ER, Meg Rayburn in Bloodline, and Judy Hale in Dead to Me. Her portrayal of Judy Hale earned Cardellini a SAG and Emmy nomination for Actress in a Comedy Series.

John Francis Daley As Sam Weir

John Francis Daley portrays the character of Sam Weir, Lindsay's younger brother, in the television show Freaks and Geeks. Sam is a shy and introverted high school freshman who is often overlooked due to his smaller stature. Despite this, he forms a strong bond with his fellow "geeks" and finds solace in their friendship. In addition to his acting career, Daley has also delved into directing alongside his creative partner Jonathan Goldstein. Together, they have co-directed movies such as Vacation, Game Night, and Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves, and have contributed to the scripts of Horrible Bosses and Spider-Man: Homecoming.

Jason Segel As Nick Andopolis

Jason Segel portrays Nick Andopolis, the most compassionate and emotionally attuned member of the Freaks and Geeks ensemble. Nick, formerly a basketball player, redirects his focus towards music following his expulsion from the team due to marijuana possession. Despite his connection with Lindsay, their relationship unravels as she perceives him to be overly dependent and domineering.

Segel's career progresses with notable roles such as Marshall Eriksen in How I Met Your Mother and Jimmy Laird, a bereaved therapist, in the comedic drama Shrinking on Apple TV+, earning him an Emmy nomination. He achieves acclaim for both his acting and writing abilities in the romantic comedy Forgetting Sarah Marshall as Peter Bretter. Furthermore, Segel garners widespread recognition for his portrayal of David Foster Wallace in The End of the Tour. Alongside Lily Collins and Jesse Plemons, he co-writes and stars in the film Windfall as the unidentified intruder.

Busy Philipps As Kim Kelly

Daniel's on-and-off girlfriend, Kim Kelly, is portrayed by Busy Philipps in the Freaks and Geeks series. Kim is notorious for being the subject of gossip within the school, frequently arguing with Daniel and getting into physical altercations. Initially, she displayed a cold and dismissive attitude towards Lindsay, but their relationship gradually evolved into a close friendship.

In addition to her role as Kim Kelly, Philipps is recognized for her performances as Audrey Liddell in Dawson's Creek and Laurie Keller in Cougar Town. She further showcased her talents by hosting her own talk show, Busy Tonight, which aired for more than 100 episodes. In the realm of film, Philipps portrayed Jane in I Feel Pretty and contributed her voice to the character Foofy Dog in DC League of Super-Pets. Furthermore, she will take on the role of Mrs. George in the movie adaptation of Mean Girls: The Musical.

James Franco As Daniel Desario

James Franco played the role of the unintelligent Daniel Desario on Freaks & Geeks. He portrayed the leader of the group of misfits, who keeps his age and academic struggles a secret. Daniel is known for his cool and charismatic personality, but he is also regarded as selfish and unreliable.

Franco's career progressed from television to movies when he took on the character of Harry Osborn, Peter Parker's best friend, in Sam Raimi's Spider-Man trilogy. He continued to showcase his talent in films such as Milk, where he played Scott Smith, Spring Breakers as Alien, Rise of the Planet of the Apes as Will Rodman. His performance as Aron Ralston in 127 Hours earned him an Academy Award nomination, and he received a Golden Globe Award for his portrayal of Tommy Wiseau in The Disaster Artist. However, in 2018, he faced accusations of sexual misconduct and has significantly reduced his acting commitments, focusing mainly on his role as twins Vincent and Frankie Martino in The Deuce.

Seth Rogen As Ken Miller

Seth Rogen portrays Ken Miller, the most sarcastic member of the Freaks and Geeks cast. Despite his stubborn and abrasive nature, Ken also possesses a sensitive side. Interestingly, this contrasts with the relaxed and easygoing persona that would ultimately define Rogen's film career.

Furthermore, Rogen joined forces with Judd Apatow for several successful comedies, including The 40-Year-Old Virgin, Knocked Up, and Funny People. Additionally, Rogen, along with his childhood friend Evan Goldberg, co-wrote and directed films such as Superbad, Pineapple Express, and This is the End. Notably, Rogen has also ventured into dramatic roles, featuring in movies like Take This Waltz by Sarah Polley, Steve Jobs by Danny Boyle, and The Fabelmans by Steven Spielberg.

Rogen's talent has garnered him five Emmy nominations and three Golden Globe nominations across various categories. Moreover, as a television producer, Rogen has made significant contributions to the development of shows like The Boys, Invincible, and Pam & Tommy, the latter of which he also starred in.

In 2023, Rogen collaboratively wrote and produced Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem with Goldberg, and he also provided the voice for the character Bebop. Additionally, Rogen is set to join the cast of Dumb Money, scheduled for release in September 2023. Furthermore, in 2024, he will lend his voice to Kung Fu Panda 4 and Mufasa: The Lion King.

Martin Starr As Bill Haverchuck

In the cast of Freaks and Geeks, Martin Starr portrays Bill Haverchuck, who stands out as the quintessential geek. While Sam is shorter than the majority of his peers, Bill is the tallest among them all. Bill's humor is delivered in a dry and subtle manner, but unfortunately, he lacks the self-assurance to fully capitalize on it.

Starr has brought his trademark deadpan hilarity to his later roles, including Roman DeBeers in Party Down, the hilariously quotable Bertram Gilfoyle in Silicon Valley, and Peter Parker’s teacher Mr. Harrington in the MCU’s Spider-Man trilogy. In addition to his comedic prowess, Starr has also showcased his talent for drama, playing the character of Lawrence “Bohdi” Geigerman in Sylvester Stallone's Tulsa King.

Samm Levine As Neal Schweiber

Neal Schweiber, portrayed by Samm Levine in Freaks and Geeks, stands out as the most self-assured and extroverted member of the geek clique. He proudly labels himself a ladies' man and possesses a knack for comedy, all while nursing an unrequited crush on Lindsay. Despite his delusions, Neal fails to realize that he shares the same level of geekiness as Sam and Bill, steadfastly positioning himself as the epitome of coolness.

Levine gained recognition for his portrayal of PFC Hirschberg, a member of the eponymous squad in Quentin Tarantino's acclaimed film, Inglourious Basterds. Additionally, he showcased his talent as Arty in the popular Wet Hot American Summer series. He also served as the assistant and occasional host on Kevin Pollak's Chat Show, an online talk show.

Freaks And Geeks Supporting Cast & Characters

Becky Ann Baker portrays Jean Weir in Freaks and Geeks. The character is Lindsay and Sam's kind and selfless mother. Baker has established herself as a talented actress specializing in maternal roles, as seen in her portrayal of Loreen Horvath, Hannah's mother in Girls. Her exceptional performance in this role garnered her two Critics' Choice Award nominations and an Emmy nomination. Additionally, she portrayed Dottie Lasso in Ted Lasso, which earned her another Emmy nomination.

Joe Flaherty portrays Harold Weir, a strict yet compassionate father to Lindsay and Sam. He is best known for his work on the sketch comedy series SCTV and his role as a golf heckler in Happy Gilmore.

Thomas F. Wilson takes on the role of Coach Ben Fredricks, the gruff gym teacher of the geeks. He is best known for his portrayal of Biff Tannen and his various family members throughout the Back to the Future trilogy.

Sarah Hagan portrays Millie Kentner, Lindsay's close friend who is deeply religious. Hagan is part of the cast of Freaks and Geeks, where she brings Millie to life. Additionally, Hagan takes on the role of Amanda, a recurring character in Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

Dave "Gruber" Allen portrays Jeff Rosso, the laid-back hippie guidance counselor who the characters turn to for advice and support. Allen's impressive acting career also includes playing Mr. Kwest in Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide and a town troubadour in Gilmore Girls.

In Freaks and Geeks, Natasha Melnick portrays Cindy Sanders, a well-liked cheerleader who is both Sam's friend and love interest throughout the first season. As the story progresses, Cindy becomes his girlfriend. Interestingly, Melnick later lends her voice to the character of Ruth, one of Meg's friends, in the animated series Family Guy.