Where Are They Now? The Iconic Cast Of E.T.

Few films have etched themselves into the collective consciousness quite like Steven Spielberg's 1982 masterpiece, *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial*. More than just a science fiction tale, it's a timeless story of friendship, wonder, and the profound connection between a lonely boy and an alien from another world. The magic of *E.T.* was undeniable, captivating audiences worldwide and making bicycles fly in our imaginations. But beyond the groundbreaking animatronics designed by Carlo Rambaldi and the heartwarming narrative, it was the extraordinary performances from the young and seasoned actors that truly brought this story to life.

Released as the closing film of the Cannes Film Festival on May 26, 1982, *E.T.* quickly became a cultural phenomenon. It told the poignant story of Elliot, a lonely youngster who finds refuge for an alien inadvertently left behind on Earth. As their bond deepens, it soon becomes clear that E.T. must find his way home before he falls into the wrong hands. Decades have passed since its release, yet the film's emotional resonance remains as strong as ever. This article will delve into the lives and careers of the beloved **cast from E.T.**, exploring where they are now and the lasting impact of their roles in cinematic history.

Table of Contents

• The Heart of the Story: Henry Thomas as Elliot
• The Youngest Star: Drew Barrymore as Gertie
• The Caring Mother: Dee Wallace as Mary
• The Older Brother: Robert MacNaughton as Michael
• The Enigmatic Figure: Peter Coyote as Keys
• The Masterminds Behind the Magic: Directing and Animatronics
• E.T.'s Enduring Legacy: Beyond the Screen
• Where Are They Now? A Look at the Cast's Post-E.T. Careers

The Heart of the Story: Henry Thomas as Elliot

At the core of *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial* is the extraordinary performance of Henry Thomas as Elliot. His portrayal of a sensitive, lonely boy who forms an unbreakable bond with an alien captivated audiences worldwide. Thomas, who began his career as a child actor, had a lead role in the film E.T., and his raw, authentic emotions were pivotal to the film's success. Spielberg famously cast him after an improvised audition where Thomas cried on cue, perfectly embodying the grief Elliot would feel when E.T. was taken away. The film was shot in rough chronological order to facilitate convincing emotional performances from the young **cast from E.T.**, a technique that undoubtedly paid off for Thomas.

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Henry Thomas: Biography and Personal Data

Henry Thomas's performance as Elliot remains one of the most iconic child performances in cinematic history. His ability to convey profound emotion, from innocent joy to heartbreaking sorrow, made the fantastical story feel incredibly real. This role not only launched his career but also set a high bar for his subsequent acting endeavors. Many fans still remember him primarily as Elliot, a testament to the character's enduring impact.

Category	Details
Full Name	Henry Jackson Thomas Jr.
Date of Birth	September 9, 1971
Place of Birth	San Antonio, Texas, U.S.
Occupation	Actor
Notable Role	Elliot in *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial*
Years Active	1981–present

The Youngest Star: Drew Barrymore as Gertie

While Henry Thomas carried much of the film's emotional weight, Drew Barrymore, at just seven years old, stole hearts as Elliot's adorable younger sister, Gertie. Her innocent wonder, wide-eyed curiosity, and sometimes hilarious reactions to E.T. provided much of the film's charm and comedic relief. Barrymore's natural charisma was evident even at such a young age, and her performance was a significant factor in the film's widespread appeal. She perfectly embodied the childlike awe that *E.T.* aimed to inspire in its audience.

Drew Barrymore: Biography and Personal Data

Drew Barrymore's role as Gertie was her breakout performance, launching a career that would see her become one of Hollywood's most enduring and versatile stars. Her genuine reactions to E.T., whether dressing him up or screaming in delightful terror, were unforgettable. Her presence added a layer of authentic family dynamics to the story, making the children's secret feel even more precious and vulnerable. She is arguably the most famous member of the **cast from E.T.** today.

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Category	Details
Full Name	Drew Blythe Barrymore
Date of Birth	February 22, 1975
Place of Birth	Culver City, California, U.S.
Occupation	Actress, producer, director, talk show host, entrepreneur
Notable Role	Gertie in *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial*
Years Active	1978–present

The Caring Mother: Dee Wallace as Mary

Dee Wallace played Mary, Elliot, Gertie, and Michael's single mother, who is initially oblivious to the alien living in her home. Wallace brought a grounded, relatable performance to the role, portraying a mother struggling to balance work, raise three children, and navigate the challenges of single parenthood. Her eventual discovery of E.T. and her subsequent fear and protectiveness added a layer of adult perspective to the children's adventure. Wallace's ability to convey both vulnerability and strength made her character deeply sympathetic.

Dee Wallace: Biography and Personal Data

Dee Wallace was already a seasoned actress before *E.T.*, having starred in horror classics like *The Howling* and *Cujo*. Her role as Mary allowed her to showcase a different side of her acting range, moving from terror to tender maternal love. She anchored the adult world of the film, providing a contrast to the magical, childlike world of E.T. and the kids. Her performance as part of the **cast from E.T.** is often praised for its authenticity and emotional depth, making her a standout in a film dominated by its younger stars.

Category	Details
Full Name	Dee Wallace Stone
Date of Birth	December 14, 1948
Place of Birth	Kansas City, Kansas, U.S.
Occupation	Actress
Notable Role	Mary in *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial*
Years Active	1974–present

The Older Brother: Robert MacNaughton as Michael

Robert MacNaughton played Michael, Elliot's older brother, who initially dismisses Elliot's claims about an alien but quickly becomes a crucial ally and protector. Michael's journey from skeptical older sibling to a loyal co-conspirator is one of the film's quieter but equally important arcs. MacNaughton portrayed Michael with a believable mix of teenage aloofness and underlying care for his younger brother, making their sibling dynamic feel authentic. His role as part of the core **cast from E.T.** provided a necessary bridge between the innocence of Elliot and Gertie and the encroaching adult world.

Robert MacNaughton: Biography and Personal Data

Robert MacNaughton's performance as Michael added a layer of realism to the children's interactions. He wasn't just a supporting character; he was an integral part of the trio protecting E.T., often taking on the responsibility of the older brother. While his acting career didn't reach the same heights as Barrymore's, his contribution to *E.T.* is fondly remembered by fans. He perfectly captured the essence of a typical older brother who, despite his initial skepticism, steps up when it truly matters.

Category	Details
Full Name	Robert MacNaughton
Date of Birth	December 19, 1966
Place of Birth	New York City, New York, U.S.
Occupation	Actor
Notable Role	Michael in *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial*
Years Active	1980–present (limited roles after E.T.)

The Enigmatic Figure: Peter Coyote as Keys

Peter Coyote played Keys, the government agent who becomes obsessed with capturing E.T. What makes Coyote's performance unique is that his face is rarely fully shown for much of the film, often appearing only from the waist down, symbolizing the faceless, looming threat of the adult world. This directorial choice heightened the mystery and fear surrounding the government's pursuit. When his face is finally revealed, his character takes on a more nuanced role, showing a surprising understanding and empathy towards E.T. and Elliot. Coyote's portrayal was crucial in establishing the stakes and tension in the narrative.

Peter Coyote: Biography and Personal Data

Peter Coyote's distinctive voice and calm demeanor made his character both intimidating and, ultimately, understandable. He represented the "adult" world that threatens E.T. and Elliot's bond, yet he wasn't portrayed as a purely evil antagonist. This complexity added depth to the film's themes of fear versus understanding. As a seasoned actor and narrator, Coyote brought a gravitas to the role that elevated the suspense. His presence, even when partially obscured, was a powerful force in the film's dynamic, making him an unforgettable part of the **cast from E.T.**.

Category	Details
Full Name	Peter Coyote (born Rachmil Pinchus Ben Mosha Cohon)
Date of Birth	October 10, 1941
Place of Birth	New York City, New York, U.S.
Occupation	Actor, author, screenwriter, director, narrator
Notable Role	Keys in *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial*
Years Active	1979–present

The Masterminds Behind the Magic: Directing and Animatronics

The success of *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial* wasn't solely due to its remarkable **cast from E.T.**; it was also a testament to the visionary direction of Steven Spielberg and the incredible technical artistry behind the titular alien. Spielberg's decision to shoot the film in rough chronological order was a stroke of genius, particularly for the young actors. This approach allowed the children to experience the story's emotional arc organically, fostering genuine reactions and deeper connections with the narrative and, crucially, with E.T. himself.

The animatronics for the film were designed by Carlo Rambaldi, a legendary Italian special effects artist. Rambaldi's work on E.T. was revolutionary, creating a creature that was not only believable but also deeply expressive and endearing. E.T.'s large, soulful eyes, the subtle movements of his fingers, and his distinctive voice (provided by Pat Welsh) all contributed to making him feel like a living, breathing character. This blend of masterful direction and cutting-edge practical effects allowed the actors, especially the children, to truly interact with E.T. as if he were real, which in turn elicited their incredibly convincing emotional performances.

E.T.'s Enduring Legacy: Beyond the Screen

*E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial* is more than just a film; it's a cultural touchstone. The film that made bicycles fly and Reese's Pieces sales soar captured hearts with its blend of wonder, friendship, and the universal desire for belonging. Its themes of innocence, alienation, compassion, and the bittersweet nature of goodbyes resonated deeply with audiences of all ages. The movie's impact extended far beyond the box office, influencing countless filmmakers and becoming a benchmark for family-friendly science fiction.

The film's iconic imagery, from the silhouette of E.T. and Elliot flying across the moon to E.T.'s glowing finger, has become synonymous with cinematic magic. It proved that a science fiction story could be profoundly emotional and intimate, focusing on character relationships rather than grand spectacle. The enduring appeal of *E.T.* is a testament to its timeless narrative and the unforgettable performances delivered by the entire **cast from E.T.**, who brought such authentic humanity to a story about an alien.

Where Are They Now? A Look at the Cast's Post-E.T. Careers

Thirty-two years later, we revisit the cast of one of Spielberg's most beloved films to see what they've been up to. The paths taken by the **cast from E.T.** vary widely, from continued superstardom to quieter lives outside the intense Hollywood spotlight.

• Henry Thomas (Elliot): While E.T. was his breakthrough, Henry Thomas has maintained a consistent acting career. He has appeared in numerous films and television series, often taking on more mature and darker roles to shed his child star image. Notable credits include *Gangs of New York*, *Legends of the Fall*, and more recently, a prominent collaboration with director Mike Flanagan in Netflix's horror series like *The Haunting of Hill House*, *The Haunting of Bly Manor*, and *Midnight Mass*. Actor Henry Thomas reprises his role as a dramatic and versatile performer, proving his talent extends far beyond his iconic childhood part.
• Drew Barrymore (Gertie): Drew Barrymore's career post-E.T. has been nothing short of phenomenal. After navigating a challenging adolescence, she successfully reinvented herself as a leading lady in romantic comedies like *The Wedding Singer* and *50 First Dates*, and action films like *Charlie's Angels*. She founded her own production company, Flower Films, and has ventured into directing. More recently, she launched a successful daytime talk show, *The Drew Barrymore Show*, showcasing her vibrant personality and interviewing skills. She remains one of the most recognizable and beloved members of the **cast from E.T.**
• Dee Wallace (Mary): Dee Wallace has had an incredibly prolific career, especially within the horror genre, earning her the title of "Scream Queen." She has appeared in over 200 films and television shows, including *Cujo*, *Critters*, *The Frighteners*, and Rob Zombie's *Halloween*. She continues to be a working actress, a testament to her dedication and versatility, and often attends fan conventions, where she is warmly received by fans of her extensive body of work, including her role in *E.T.*
• Robert MacNaughton (Michael): After *E.T.*, Robert MacNaughton had a few more acting roles but largely stepped away from the limelight to pursue a career in theater and later as a postman. He has occasionally returned to acting for independent films or special appearances, but his life has been much more private compared to his co-stars. His decision highlights the varied experiences of child actors after achieving massive success at a young age.
• Peter Coyote (Keys): Peter Coyote has continued to have a distinguished career as an actor, author, and prolific narrator. His distinctive voice has been featured in countless documentaries, particularly those by Ken Burns. He has appeared in films such as *Jagged Edge*, *Bitter Moon*, and *Sphere*, and has had a strong presence in television. He is also an ordained Zen Buddhist priest, demonstrating a life rich in diverse pursuits beyond his memorable role in *E.T.*

Get actor roles, casting info, images and more by exploring the filmographies of these talented individuals. Cast members details for E.T. are readily available, allowing fans to explore the cast of characters, their bios and filmography in depth. It's clear that while *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial* was a defining moment for many of them, their careers and lives have continued to evolve in fascinating ways.

Conclusion

The magic of *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial* is undeniable, and a significant part of that magic lies in the unforgettable performances delivered by its **cast from E.T.** From the raw emotion of Henry Thomas to the innocent charm of Drew Barrymore, and the grounded presence of Dee Wallace, each actor contributed to making a fantastical story feel profoundly real and relatable. The film's ability to transcend generations speaks volumes about its universal themes and the genuine connections portrayed on screen.

Revisiting the **cast from E.T.** reminds us not only of the enduring power of this cinematic masterpiece but also of the remarkable journeys these actors have taken since. Their contributions helped create a film that continues to inspire wonder, teach empathy, and remind us all that friendship can truly be out of this world. What are your favorite memories of *E.T.* or a particular performance from its cast? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don't forget to explore more articles on classic films and their lasting impact!

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