"'Avast ye mateys! 'A Christmas Story' be turnin' 40! See 'em stars from yesteryear to now, arr!"
2023-11-19
"Arrr, me hearties! 'Tis be a jolly tale known as "A Christmas Story," a film cherished by many a scurvy dog on this fair American holiday. Behold, let us cast our gaze upon the likes of Darren McGavin, Peter Billingsley, and Jean Shepherd, and see where they be sailin' their ships these days!"
"A Christmas Story" is a beloved holiday classic that has gained popularity over the years. Despite its modest beginnings as a low-budget film, it has become a must-watch for many families each season. The movie premiered in 1983 and quickly became a staple through TV viewings and video rentals.The original cast of the film has had varied careers since its release. Director Bob Clark originally wanted Jack Nicholson for the role of Ralphie's father, but Darren McGavin ended up playing the gruff yet understanding father figure. McGavin had already established a successful career and continued to work in TV and film after "A Christmas Story."
Pete Billingsley, who played Ralphie, has since worked behind the camera on other holiday classics like "Elf" and "Four Christmases." He has also worked as an executive producer on several films.
Melinda Dillon played Ralphie's mom and had a successful acting career before and after "A Christmas Story." She retired from acting in 2007.
Ian Petrella played Ralphie's little brother Randy and has continued to work in TV as a puppeteer and animator.
Scott Schwartz played Ralphie's friend Flick and had roles in TV shows and movies before briefly entering the adult film industry. He later returned to mainstream acting and reprised his role as Flick in a recent sequel.
Zack Ward played the bully Scut Farkus and has gone on to work in both TV and film, as well as behind the camera as a writer, director, and producer.
The film was based on Jean Shepherd's book of short stories and he also narrated the film as adult Ralphie. Shepherd had a successful career as a writer and radio host, and he co-wrote the screenplay and narrated the sequel to "A Christmas Story."
Overall, the original cast of "A Christmas Story" has had diverse careers since the film's release, and the movie itself has become a beloved holiday classic.