The 2005 Bad News Bears Cast: Where Are They Now?

Hey guys! Remember that hilarious movie, Bad News Bears, from 2005? It was a remake that brought all the laughs and a whole lot of heart, focusing on a dysfunctional Little League team and their even more dysfunctional coach. It's been a minute since we saw those pint-sized ballplayers and their grumpy mentor on the big screen, so I got to thinking: where has the Bad News Bears 2005 cast been all this time? What have these talented actors been up to since they last donned those dusty uniforms? Let's dive deep and find out what our favorite characters are doing today.

Billy Bob Thornton as Morris Buttermaker

First up, the legendary Billy Bob Thornton, who absolutely nailed the role of Morris Buttermaker. He was the washed-up, beer-guzzling former pitcher roped into coaching this ragtag bunch. Billy Bob brought such a perfect blend of gruffness and underlying decency to the character, making Buttermaker one of his most memorable roles. Since Bad News Bears, Thornton has been incredibly busy, guys. He's a true Hollywood workhorse! He continued his prolific acting career with major roles in films like The Astronaut Farmer, Eagle Eye, and the critically acclaimed TV series Fargo. His performance in Fargo earned him numerous awards and nominations, proving once again his incredible range and talent. He's also lent his voice to animated features and continued to be a sought-after actor for both dramatic and comedic projects. You can't keep a good (or bad, in this case) actor down! His ability to shift between intense drama and dark comedy is simply unparalleled, and Bad News Bears was a perfect showcase for that. He really made you believe in Buttermaker's journey from cynical has-been to reluctantly proud coach, even if his methods were unconventional. It’s safe to say Billy Bob Thornton has had a stellar career trajectory since 2005, consistently delivering powerful performances and remaining a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. He's one of those actors who elevates any project he's a part of, and we're all the better for it.

Greg Kinnear as Roy Bullock

Then there's Greg Kinnear, who played Roy Bullock, the overly enthusiastic and somewhat clueless dad who hired Buttermaker. Kinnear, always a charming presence on screen, brought a perfect comedic foil to Thornton's character. He was the guy who genuinely wanted the best for the kids, even if his ideas were a bit out there. After Bad News Bears, Greg Kinnear continued to be a fixture in Hollywood, known for his versatile acting chops. He's appeared in a wide array of films, including Invincible, Fast Food Nation, Misadventures of Max Power, and the much-loved romantic comedy The Stuck In Love. He also delved into television, starring in shows like Rake and The Grinder. Kinnear has a knack for playing likable, relatable characters, and his role as Roy Bullock was no exception. He perfectly embodied the optimistic parent who just wants to see his kid succeed, adding another layer of warmth to the film. His consistent presence in quality productions speaks volumes about his talent and dedication to his craft. He’s a guy who can handle drama and comedy with equal ease, making him a valuable asset to any cast. His performances are always nuanced and engaging, and Bad News Bears was a great example of his ability to balance sincerity with humor. We’ve seen him tackle more serious roles and continue to shine in comedies, proving his enduring appeal.

Marcia Gay Harden as Liz Marcus

Marcia Gay Harden portrayed Liz Marcus, the formidable lawyer and mother of star pitcher Amanda. Harden brought a steely determination and underlying vulnerability to Liz, a character who initially clashed with Buttermaker but eventually found common ground. She was the no-nonsense mom who was serious about her daughter's athletic career. Since her role in Bad News Bears, Marcia Gay Harden has continued to impress audiences with her powerful performances. She's had significant roles in movies like The Mist, Rails & Ties, and The Dead Inside. She also made a notable impact on television, earning an Emmy nomination for her role in The Newsroom and starring in the popular series Code Black. Harden is an Oscar-winning actress, and her work consistently showcases her immense talent and dedication. Her portrayal of Liz Marcus was a crucial part of the film's dynamic, providing a strong counterpoint to Buttermaker's chaos. She showed that even the most buttoned-up characters can have a hidden rebellious streak when pushed. Her ability to convey complex emotions with just a glance is truly remarkable, and it made Liz a character you rooted for. She remains a powerhouse in the acting world, consistently choosing challenging and rewarding projects. Her career is a testament to her artistic integrity and her unwavering commitment to delivering compelling performances. Whether she’s playing a lawyer, a doctor, or a troubled mother, Harden always brings a level of gravitas and authenticity that is hard to match.

Sammi Kraft as Amanda Whurlitzer

And then there's Sammi Kraft, who played the incredibly talented pitcher, Amanda Whurlitzer. Amanda was the heart and soul of the team, the one with the real talent that Buttermaker desperately wanted to harness. Kraft, as a young actress, delivered a performance that was both tough and endearing. What has Sammi Kraft been up to since then? After Bad News Bears, Sammi Kraft stepped away from the spotlight for a bit, focusing on her education and personal life. It's not uncommon for young actors to take breaks after their initial success. While she hasn't had many prominent acting roles since, she's grown up and has been pursuing other interests. It's always interesting to see what child stars do as they get older, and sometimes they choose different paths. Her performance as Amanda was so memorable because she brought a quiet intensity to the role that belied her age. She was the ace pitcher with a chip on her shoulder, and Kraft made you believe every bit of it. It's great to see that she had the opportunity to take her time and figure out what she wanted to do next. We wish her all the best in whatever she chooses!

Lance Preston as Tanner Boyle

Let's not forget Lance Preston, who played Tanner Boyle, the abrasive but secretly loyal catcher. Tanner was the kid who was always ready with a sarcastic remark but would defend his teammates tooth and nail. Preston, as Tanner, was fantastic at delivering those biting lines with perfect comedic timing. Since Bad News Bears, Lance Preston hasn't had a large number of major film or television roles. Like many child actors, he has taken a more private path after his initial foray into Hollywood. His portrayal of Tanner was so iconic because he captured the essence of a kid who put up a tough front but had a good heart underneath. He was the perfect foil for Amanda's seriousness and Buttermaker's cynicism. It's always a journey for young actors to navigate their careers, and Preston's decision to focus on other aspects of his life is completely understandable. His performance in Bad News Bears remains a beloved memory for fans of the film, showcasing his natural talent for comedy.

Jeffrey DeSandro as Timmy Lubbock

Jeffrey DeSandro played Timmy Lubbock, one of the less athletically gifted but enthusiastic members of the Bears. Timmy was the kid who always gave it his all, even if the results weren't always there. DeSandro brought a sweet innocence to the role. Since the movie, Jeffrey DeSandro has also largely stayed out of the public eye. His role in Bad News Bears was one of his few acting credits, and it seems he has pursued opportunities outside of the entertainment industry. His performance as Timmy was memorable for its pure, unadulterated effort and the joy he found in playing the game. He embodied the spirit of participation and the idea that everyone deserves a chance to play. It's always interesting to see the paths these young actors take, and we appreciate his contribution to the film's charm.

Brandon Craggs as Kelly Leak

Brandon Craggs took on the role of Kelly Leak, the swaggering, slightly rebellious kid who thought he was way cooler than everyone else. Kelly was known for his audacious attitude and his undeniable, albeit sometimes careless, baseball skills. Craggs brought a fun, confident energy to the character. After Bad News Bears, Brandon Craggs also seems to have pursued paths away from the spotlight. Information about his subsequent acting career is limited, suggesting he may have focused on other interests or a different career path. His portrayal of Kelly Leak was memorable for his cool demeanor and his often hilarious one-liners. He added a certain