The Curious Case of Martha Plimpton and the Elusive Goonies Sequel
Imagine starring in one of the most beloved adventure films of all time, a true cult classic that has captivated generations for nearly 40 years, only to admit you’ve seen it just once. That’s the reality for Martha Plimpton, who famously portrayed Stef in The Goonies. While fans worldwide cherish every moment of the 1985 classic, Plimpton’s surprising detachment from her iconic role reveals a complex relationship many child stars have with their early work, even as the drumbeat for a Goonies sequel grows louder.
“Nope. I don’t watch it,” Plimpton, 54, told People magazine, adding with a laugh, “I’ve seen it once, and that’s good.” This admission offers a fascinating glimpse into how actors perceive the cinematic legacies they leave behind, especially when contrasted with the immense fan devotion that has kept the spirit of the Goon Docks alive for decades.
From Goon Docks to Parenthood: A Different Kind of Nostalgia
While The Goonies doesn’t hold a rewatch appeal for Plimpton, she recently found herself drawn to another classic from her filmography: 1989’s dramedy Parenthood. “A few months ago I was curious to watch ‘Parenthood,’ and I did,” the actress revealed. Co-starring with legends like Steve Martin and Dianne Wiest, Plimpton described it as “a really lovely movie.” This selective nostalgia highlights the personal connections actors form with their projects, which aren’t always aligned with public perception or box office success.
Awesome Con: The Reunion That Reignited Hope
Despite her personal viewing habits, Plimpton’s affection for her former castmates remains strong. Earlier this year, she joined fellow Goonies Sean Astin, Corey Feldman, Kerri Green, Robert Davi, and Joe Pantoliano at Awesome Con in Washington, D.C. The reunion itself was a potent reminder of the film’s enduring power and the tight bond forged amongst its young stars. Notable absences included Josh Brolin, Ke Huy Quan, and Jeff Cohen, but the collective presence still thrilled the devoted fan base.
It was at this very panel that Plimpton and Feldman dropped a bombshell, confirming their interest in a potential Goonies sequel. According to a Deadline report, they stated the project is “moving in the right direction” with none other than Steven Spielberg and original writer Chris Columbus attached. This news sent a ripple of excitement through the convention and online, suggesting that the long-rumored follow-up might finally be gaining traction.
Plimpton herself expressed a hopeful, almost resigned sentiment: “I think [fans are] going to see ‘The Goonies 2,’ whether we’re in it or not. I think that’s pretty obvious. At least, I hope [they] will.” Feldman echoed this enthusiasm, remarking, “We love that Steven Spielberg is engaged and back in the ‘Goonies’ mindset, so that’s exciting for all of us, and whatever happens, we hope that it’s worth it.”
The Goonies Sequel: A Rollercoaster of Rumors and Retractions
What makes these recent statements particularly intriguing is their stark contrast to remarks made just months prior. In September 2024, both Plimpton and Feldman had vehemently shut down any talk of a sequel. Plimpton took to Instagram to declare, “People, there is no Goonies2 script, there is no one ‘attached,’ Spielberg is not directing, it’s not real.” Feldman, known for his directness, posted, “2’SDAY, IS #GOONIES2 REAL?! EVERY1 IS ASKING… I CAN OFFICIALLY TELL U 100% NO! I HAV NO INFO THAT A SEQUEL IS IN THE WORKX.”
This dramatic shift from outright denial to cautious optimism fuels endless speculation among fans. What changed in a matter of months? Was it the energy of the reunion, new developments behind the scenes, or simply a shift in how the actors are choosing to address the perennial question of a sequel?
The Enduring Legacy and the Weight of Expectation
Directed by the late Richard Donner, who passed away in 2021, and born from a story by Steven Spielberg, The Goonies earned an impressive $125 million worldwide and has solidified its place as a cherished cult classic. Its tale of a group of Astoria, Oregon kids on a treasure hunt to save their homes resonates deeply with themes of friendship, adventure, and the magic of childhood.
The prospect of a Goonies sequel carries immense weight. Fan expectations are sky-high, fueled by decades of nostalgia. Any new installment would need to honor the original’s spirit, capture its unique blend of humor and heart, and justify its existence without relying solely on a trip down memory lane. The involvement of Spielberg and Columbus suggests a commitment to preserving that magic, but the journey to production is often fraught with creative and logistical challenges.
What are your hopes and fears for a potential Goonies sequel? Do you believe it can recapture the lightning in a bottle that made the original so special? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
