The Revenge of the Nerds cast continues to draw attention more than four decades after the film premiered in theaters on July 20, 1984. The college comedy became a defining movie of the 1980s and helped launch several careers that remain active in Hollywood today. As of February 24, 2026, many of the original cast members are still working in film and television, while others have passed away and left a lasting mark on pop culture.
Here is a complete, up-to-date look at the principal actors, their roles in the film, and their current status.
A Quick Look Back at the 1984 Film
Directed by Jeff Kanew, Revenge of the Nerds told the story of socially awkward college freshmen who form their own fraternity, Lambda Lambda Lambda, after being bullied by the Alpha Beta jocks.
The film starred an ensemble cast and became a box office success. It later led to three sequels:
- Revenge of the Nerds II: Nerds in Paradise (1987)
- Revenge of the Nerds III: The Next Generation (1992, television)
- Revenge of the Nerds IV: Nerds in Love (1994, television)
While the sequels had varying levels of success, the original film remains the most culturally recognized entry.
Robert Carradine as Lewis Skolnick
Robert Carradine played Lewis Skolnick, the determined leader of the nerd fraternity.
Born: March 24, 1954
Age in 2026: 71
Carradine came from a prominent acting family. He is the son of actor John Carradine and the brother of actors Keith and David Carradine.
After starring in Revenge of the Nerds, Carradine reprised his role in the sequels. Over the years, he continued acting in film and television projects. He also participated in reality competition programs and independent films.
As of 2026, Carradine remains alive and occasionally appears at fan conventions celebrating 1980s films. He continues to be closely associated with his role as Lewis.
Anthony Edwards as Gilbert Lowe
Anthony Edwards portrayed Gilbert Lowe, Lewis’s loyal friend and co-founder of Lambda Lambda Lambda.
Born: July 19, 1962
Age in 2026: 63
Edwards’ career expanded significantly after the film. He gained widespread fame for his portrayal of Dr. Mark Greene on NBC’s long-running medical drama ER.
His performance on ER earned him a Golden Globe Award and multiple Emmy nominations. Beyond acting, Edwards has directed and produced projects in film and television.
As of 2026, Edwards continues working in the entertainment industry and remains a respected figure in Hollywood.
Curtis Armstrong as Dudley “Booger” Dawson
Curtis Armstrong played Dudley Dawson, better known as “Booger,” one of the film’s most memorable characters.
Born: November 27, 1953
Age in 2026: 72
Armstrong built a long and steady career after the movie’s release. He appeared in television series such as:
- Moonlighting
- Supernatural
- American Dad! (voice role)
His voice acting work has become a major part of his career. He remains active in both animation and live-action appearances.
Armstrong also frequently attends pop culture conventions and participates in cast reunions tied to the film.
Timothy Busfield as Arnold Poindexter
Timothy Busfield portrayed Arnold Poindexter, the shy engineering student with a distinctive laugh.
Born: June 12, 1957
Age in 2026: 68
Busfield later achieved critical acclaim for his role on the television series Thirtysomething. His performance earned him a Primetime Emmy Award.
In addition to acting, Busfield has directed episodes of several television series. His career spans decades in both comedic and dramatic roles.
As of early 2026, he remains active in television and stage projects.
Andrew Cassese as Wormser
Andrew Cassese played Wormser, the young and brilliant engineering prodigy.
Born: February 20, 1972
Age in 2026: 54
Cassese appeared in the original film and its sequels. Later, he stepped away from mainstream acting and transitioned into education.
He has worked as a music teacher in New York and occasionally appears at events connected to the film.
His role in the Revenge of the Nerds cast remains one of his most recognized performances.
Julia Montgomery as Betty Childs
Julia Montgomery portrayed Betty Childs, a sorority member who becomes romantically involved with Lewis.
Born: July 2, 1960
Age in 2026: 65
Montgomery appeared in various television and film projects after the movie. Over time, she shifted away from high-profile acting roles.
She still participates in select interviews and anniversary celebrations connected to the film’s legacy.
John Goodman as Coach Harris
John Goodman played Coach Harris, one of the antagonists aligned with the Alpha Beta fraternity.
Born: June 20, 1952
Age in 2026: 73
Goodman’s role in the film came early in his career. He later rose to major fame through projects including:
- Roseanne
- The Big Lebowski
- Monsters, Inc. (voice role)
- Various HBO and major studio productions
Goodman remains one of the most respected actors in Hollywood. As of 2026, he continues appearing in television and film projects.
Among the Revenge of the Nerds cast, he has achieved the highest level of mainstream recognition.
Ted McGinley as Stan Gable
Ted McGinley portrayed Stan Gable, the confident leader of the rival Alpha Beta fraternity.
Born: May 30, 1958
Age in 2026: 67
McGinley built a successful television career that included roles in:
- Happy Days
- Married… with Children
- Hope & Faith
He continues acting in guest roles and television projects.
Bernie Casey as U.N. Jefferson
Bernie Casey played U.N. Jefferson, who joined the nerd fraternity during the film.
Born: June 8, 1939
Died: September 19, 2017
Before acting, Casey played professional football in the NFL. He later built a respected acting career in film and television.
He passed away in 2017 at the age of 78.
James Cromwell’s Appearance
James Cromwell made a brief appearance in the film as Mr. Skolnick, Lewis’s father.
Born: January 27, 1940
Age in 2026: 86
Cromwell later earned Academy Award recognition and appeared in numerous major films and television projects.
He remains active in acting as of 2026.
Cultural Legacy of the Cast
The Revenge of the Nerds cast helped shape 1980s comedy. The film became known for its underdog storyline and exaggerated campus rivalry.
Over time, public conversations have revisited certain scenes and themes through a modern lens. Despite evolving standards, the movie continues to attract viewers interested in 1980s nostalgia.
The cast’s participation in reunions and anniversary discussions keeps the film in public memory.
Where the Cast Stands Today
As of February 24, 2026:
- Most principal cast members are still alive.
- Several remain active in film or television.
- Fan conventions regularly feature appearances from original actors.
John Goodman continues to headline major projects. Anthony Edwards and Timothy Busfield maintain steady careers. Curtis Armstrong remains active in voice work and appearances.
The enduring popularity of the Revenge of the Nerds cast reflects the movie’s lasting place in American comedy history.
More than 40 years after its release, the film continues to generate interest among longtime fans and new viewers discovering it through streaming platforms.
Which actor from the Revenge of the Nerds cast stands out most to you? Share your thoughts and check back for more classic movie updates.