“The Goonies” (1985) remains one of the most beloved adventure movies of all time, bringing together a group of kids on a thrilling quest for treasure. Among the memorable characters is Chunk, the lovable, clumsy, and hilarious friend who becomes a fan favorite due to his antics and unforgettable “Truffle Shuffle” dance. Played by actor Jeff Cohen, Chunk’s character provided much of the comic relief in the film. But what happened to Chunk after “The Goonies”? In this article, we explore Jeff Cohen’s journey from his role in the movie to his life and career today.
Who Was Chunk in “The Goonies”?
Chunk, whose real name is Lawrence Cohen, is one of the main characters in “The Goonies.” He is known for his goofy personality, insatiable love for food, and his tendency to exaggerate stories to his friends. Chunk is also famous for his clumsy nature, which often lands him in trouble. One of his most iconic moments in the film is when he performs the “Truffle Shuffle,” a dance he is forced to do by his friends before they let him into Mikey’s house.
Despite being the comic relief, Chunk shows bravery and loyalty throughout the movie. His friendship with Sloth, the misunderstood member of the Fratelli crime family, adds a heartwarming layer to the story, proving that appearances can be deceiving.
Jeff Cohen: The Actor Behind Chunk
Jeff Cohen, born Jeffrey Bertan McMahon, played the role of Chunk in “The Goonies.” Cohen’s performance as Chunk was met with acclaim, and he quickly became a fan favorite. However, despite the success of the movie, Cohen decided to leave acting behind and pursue a different path.
Why Did Jeff Cohen Quit Acting?
After “The Goonies,” Jeff Cohen acted in a few television shows, including “Family Ties” and “Webster,” but he soon realized that his passion lay elsewhere. As he grew older, Cohen began to experience the challenges that come with being a child actor. He struggled with the industry’s expectations and its focus on physical appearance. Cohen later admitted that he went through a “fat kid phase” which impacted his confidence in pursuing more acting roles.
A New Beginning: From Actor to Lawyer
Jeff Cohen made a significant career shift by moving away from acting and towards law. He attended the University of California, Berkeley, where he studied political science and later went on to earn a law degree from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Law. His decision to become a lawyer was influenced by his experience in the entertainment industry and his desire to help others navigate its complexities.
Founding His Own Law Firm
In 2002, Jeff Cohen co-founded Cohen & Gardner LLP, a law firm specializing in entertainment law. His firm is based in Beverly Hills, California, and has become well-respected in the industry. As a lawyer, Cohen represents writers, producers, actors, directors, and production companies, helping them secure deals and protect their rights.
Cohen’s unique perspective as a former child actor has made him particularly empathetic to the challenges faced by clients in the entertainment industry. He has written articles on entertainment law for various publications, including “The Hollywood Reporter,” and has been recognized as one of the “Top 35 Executives Under 35” by “The Hollywood Reporter.”
Jeff Cohen’s Life After “The Goonies”
While Jeff Cohen may no longer be Chunk, he has remained connected to “The Goonies” and its legacy. Cohen often participates in fan conventions, interviews, and reunions, celebrating the film’s impact on popular culture. He has embraced his past as Chunk while building a successful career in law.
Reunion with “The Goonies” Cast
In 2020, Jeff Cohen participated in a virtual reunion with the rest of “The Goonies” cast to celebrate the film’s 35th anniversary. The event was a fundraiser to support the Center for Disaster Philanthropy during the COVID-19 pandemic. The reunion was a hit with fans, who were delighted to see the cast come together again, sharing memories and stories from the set.
Table: Jeff Cohen’s Career Path
| Stage | Details |
|---|---|
| Childhood Acting | Starred as Chunk in “The Goonies” (1985); appeared in “Family Ties,” “Webster,” and other shows. |
| Education | Studied Political Science at UC Berkeley; earned a law degree from UCLA School of Law. |
| Legal Career | Founded Cohen & Gardner LLP in 2002; specializes in entertainment law. |
| Media Presence | Contributor to “The Hollywood Reporter”; recognized as a top entertainment lawyer. |
| Fan Engagement | Participated in “The Goonies” 35th anniversary virtual reunion in 2020. |
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FAQs about Chunk and Jeff Cohen
1. What is Jeff Cohen Doing Now?
Jeff Cohen is currently a successful entertainment lawyer and co-founder of the law firm Cohen & Gardner LLP. He represents clients in the entertainment industry and provides legal guidance on various aspects of entertainment law.
2. Why Did Jeff Cohen Leave Acting?
Jeff Cohen left acting due to the pressures of being a child actor and his desire to pursue a different career path. He chose to study law and eventually became an entertainment lawyer, leveraging his experiences in the industry to help others.
3. Does Jeff Cohen Still Connect with “The Goonies”?
Yes, Jeff Cohen remains connected to “The Goonies.” He frequently participates in fan events, reunions, and interviews to celebrate the film’s legacy and its impact on pop culture.
4. What Was the “Truffle Shuffle”?
The “Truffle Shuffle” is a dance that Chunk, played by Jeff Cohen, performs in “The Goonies.” It involves lifting his shirt and shaking his belly in a humorous way. This iconic scene is one of the most memorable moments from the movie.
5. Is Goonies 2 coming out?
As of now, there has been no official confirmation that “The Goonies 2” is coming out. Over the years, there have been many rumors and discussions among fans and the original cast about a possible sequel to the beloved 1985 adventure film. Director Richard Donner, who passed away in 2021, and other cast members had expressed interest in revisiting the story, but various challenges, including finding the right script and aligning schedules, have kept the project from moving forward.
While the idea of a sequel continues to be a topic of interest and speculation, no concrete plans for “The Goonies 2” have been announced by the studio or creators. Fans remain hopeful, but for now, the original film remains a classic without a confirmed sequel.
6. Is there going to be a Goonies 2 trailer?
There is currently no official trailer for “The Goonies 2,” as the sequel has not been confirmed by the studio. Despite ongoing fan speculation and interest, no production or release plans have been announced for a second film.
Conclusion
Jeff Cohen’s journey from playing Chunk in “The Goonies” to becoming a successful entertainment lawyer is a story of transformation and reinvention. Although he left acting behind, Cohen continues to honor his roots in Hollywood, celebrating the film that made him famous while helping others navigate the complexities of the entertainment world.
