It’s been more than 35 years since The Goonies hit theaters, charming audiences with its adventurous, treasure-hunting story. The film became a cult favorite, and while some of its young stars—like Sean Astin and Josh Brolin—stayed in the spotlight, others chose very different paths. One of them is Jeff Cohen, who famously played the lovable Chunk. Though he left acting behind, he still built a successful career within the entertainment world.
Cohen was just 11 years old when The Goonies was released, but he had already appeared in shows like Webster, The Facts of Life, and Family Ties. After the film’s success in 1985, he continued acting for several more years, with his final role coming in the 1991 TV movie Perfect Harmony.
As he grew older, however, roles became harder to land. Cohen later explained that puberty changed his appearance, making it difficult to transition from child star to adult actor. The experience was tough, and he admitted it led to a period of depression. Still, attending a regular high school and connecting with peers outside the industry helped him regain perspective. Around that time, The Goonies director Richard Donner also gave him work as a production assistant, offering valuable support during a challenging phase.
Instead of continuing in front of the camera, Cohen shifted his focus entirely. He went on to study at the University of California, Berkeley and later attended University of California, Los Angeles for law school. In 2002, he co-founded his own firm, Cohen Gardner LLC, and became a successful entertainment lawyer. He has also written articles and published a 2015 book, The Dealmaker’s Ten Commandments, sharing insights from his career.
Despite leaving acting, Cohen hasn’t forgotten his roots. He still embraces his connection to The Goonies, often sharing memories and participating in cast reunions—including charity events that raised significant funds. Reflecting on the film’s lasting popularity, he credits its authenticity, noting that the kids truly acted like real kids, which continues to resonate with audiences decades later.
Today, Jeff Cohen stands as a great example of a child star who successfully reinvented himself—proving that life after Hollywood can be just as rewarding.
