Back to the Future (1985) Cast: Where Are They Now?

Great Scott! Back to the Future isn’t just a film; it’s a cultural phenomenon. But where are the actors who brought Marty, Doc, and the rest of Hill Valley to life today? Let’s fire up our DeLorean (metaphorically, of course) and revisit the past and present of this iconic cast.

The Time Travelers and Their Crew

Character Name	Actor Name	Then	Now	Concise Bio
Marty McFly	Michael J. Fox	(Image of Michael J. Fox in 1985)	(Recent image of Michael J. Fox)	Before skateboarding his way into our hearts, Fox charmed audiences on Family Ties. Back to the Future catapulted him to superstardom. Since then, he’s continued acting while bravely battling Parkinson’s disease and advocating for research. A true inspiration.
Dr. Emmett “Doc” Brown	Christopher Lloyd	(Image of Christopher Lloyd in 1985)	(Recent image of Christopher Lloyd)	Lloyd’s pre-Back to the Future career included the quirky Taxi. As Doc, he became a sci-fi icon. He’s remained a prolific actor, gracing both big and small screens with his unique presence.
Lorraine Baines-McFly	Lea Thompson	(Image of Lea Thompson in 1985)	(Recent image of Lea Thompson)	Thompson’s role as Marty’s mom launched her career. She’s starred in various projects, from Caroline in the City to directing and producing. Her daughters, Madelyn and Zoey Deutch, have also followed her into acting.
George McFly	Crispin Glover	(Image of Crispin Glover in 1985)	(Recent image of Crispin Glover)	Glover’s George McFly is undeniably iconic. However, contract disputes and creative differences led to his absence from the sequels. He’s since cultivated a niche in independent film, embracing eccentric roles.
Jennifer Parker	Claudia Wells	(Image of Claudia Wells in 1985)	(Recent image of Claudia Wells)	Wells’ time as Jennifer was brief, but memorable. She later returned to acting and has also pursued entrepreneurial ventures.
Biff Tannen	Thomas F. Wilson	(Image of Thomas F. Wilson in 1985)	(Recent image of Thomas F. Wilson)	Wilson fully embraced his role as the quintessential ’80s bully. He’s continued acting and often appears at Back to the Future fan events.

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Hill Valley’s Supporting Players

The citizens of Hill Valley added depth to Back to the Future‘s world. Marty’s siblings, Dave and Linda (Marc McClure and the late Wendie Jo Sperber), brought a relatable family dynamic. Sadly, Wendie Jo Sperber passed away in 2005. George and Lorraine’s parents (George DiCenzo, also deceased, and Frances Lee McCain) and the stern Mr. Strickland (James Tolkan) also contributed to the film’s charm. Exploring their careers further enhances our appreciation for this ensemble cast. Learn more about these actors on IMDb.

The Eric Stoltz Saga: A Different Marty?

Before Michael J. Fox, Eric Stoltz filmed several weeks as Marty. Director Robert Zemeckis ultimately felt Stoltz’s portrayal lacked the necessary comedic energy. The decision to recast, while difficult and expensive, likely shaped the film’s success. It’s a fascinating “what if” in Hollywood history.

The Crispin Glover Controversy: A Legal Precedent

Glover’s absence from the sequels stems from a dispute over compensation and the direction of his character. The filmmakers used look-alike actors and archival footage in Back to the Future Part II, which led to a lawsuit from Glover. This case became a landmark legal precedent for actors’ rights.

Reunion Roadmap: Past Gatherings & Future Possibilities

While a full-fledged Back to the Future cast reunion is rare, smaller gatherings have occurred. The most recent significant reunion was at FAN EXPO New Orleans in 2025, with Fox, Lloyd, Thompson, Wilson, and Huey Lewis discussing the film’s impact. There have also been instances of smaller appearances, suggesting the cast enjoys revisiting their time-traveling adventures. A full reunion is challenging due to scheduling (and Michael J. Fox’s health), but fans remain hopeful.

Back to the Future’s Enduring Legacy

Back to the Future‘s magic endures, sparking nostalgia and inspiring new generations. The cast’s individual journeys, filled with triumphs and challenges, add another layer of appreciation for this timeless classic. The film’s impact on popular culture is undeniable, and its legacy, much like the DeLorean, is likely to keep traveling through time.