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“The Goonies” (1985)

Astin’s first film role was playing Mikey Walsh, the de facto leader of The Goonies, in the adventure classic. The character’s signature exclamation of “Holy Mackenzie!” was an ad-lib by Astin, who wanted to sneak his brother’s name into the movie.

Warner Bros.

“Encino Man” (1992)

Astin starred with Pauly Shore as a pair of geeky high schoolers who find a caveman (played by Brendan Fraser) in their backyard hidden in a block of ice. Despite negative critical response, the unabashedly silly movie was a success at the box office and amassed a cult following.

Buena Vista Pictures

“Rudy” (1993)

In this 1993 tearjerker biopic, Astin portrayed Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger, who lived his dream of playing football for the University of Notre Dame despite significant obstacles. After this role, Astin didn’t have to prove nothin’ to nobody about his acting chops.

TriStar Pictures

“The Lord of the Rings” film franchise (2001-2003)

Astin took on the role of Samwise Gamgee, patron saint of faithful sidekicks. The red-headed hobbit reminded Frodo and audiences everywhere that there was some good — even with Sauron’s minions on their tail — and that it’s worth fighting for.

New Line Cinema

“Stranger Things” (2017-2019)

Bob Newby is the manager at the local Hawkins RadioShack and (starting in Season 3) the love interest for Joyce Byers, played by Winona Ryder. Somehow, the kid from “Goonies” ended up going on a date with Lydia from “Beetlejuice,” and all was right in the world. 

Netflix