When That ’70s Show premiered in 1998, it brought the groovy vibes of the 1970s back to life through a comedic lens. Centered on six teenage friends navigating life in the fictional town of Point Place, Wisconsin, the series became an instant classic. Featuring a stellar cast including Topher Grace, Mila Kunis, Ashton Kutcher, and Laura Prepon, the show entertained fans for eight seasons and left an indelible mark on pop culture.
Over the years, the cast has explored various career paths, personal milestones, and even reunited for the 2023 Netflix spin-off, That ’90s Show. Let’s dive into where the beloved stars of That ’70s Show are now.
Topher Grace: From Eric Forman to Hollywood Star
Topher Grace launched his acting career as Eric Forman, the awkward yet lovable leader of the group. After leaving the show in its seventh season, Grace transitioned into Hollywood, securing roles in major films like Spider-Man 3, where he played the villainous Venom, and Interstellar, directed by Christopher Nolan.
Grace has continued to thrive, appearing in films like BlacKkKlansman (2018), which earned critical acclaim and awards, and starring in the ABC sitcom Home Economics. Outside of acting, Grace married actress Ashley Hinshaw in 2016, and the couple now shares three children. He also made a nostalgic guest appearance in That ’90s Show.
Laura Prepon: From Donna Pinciotti to Netflix Favorite
Laura Prepon portrayed Donna Pinciotti, Eric’s intelligent and strong-willed girlfriend. Post-That ’70s Show, Prepon ventured into dramatic roles, most notably as Alex Vause in Netflix’s Orange Is the New Black. Her performance earned her two Screen Actors Guild Awards as part of the show’s ensemble cast.
Prepon has also pursued entrepreneurial ventures, including a wellness cookbook and her cookware line, PrepOn Kitchen. She married actor Ben Foster in 2018, and the couple has two children. Like Grace, Prepon revisited her roots with a cameo in That ’90s Show.
Mila Kunis: From Teen Star to Global Icon
Mila Kunis joined That ’70s Show as Jackie Burkhart at just 14 years old, initially fibbing about her age to secure the role. Her career skyrocketed after the show, with standout performances in films like Black Swan, Friends with Benefits, and Ted. Kunis also lent her voice to Meg Griffin on Family Guy, a role she continues to voice today.
In her personal life, Kunis married her That ’70s Show co-star Ashton Kutcher in 2015. The couple has two children and remains one of Hollywood’s favorite pairs. Kunis has also dedicated herself to philanthropy, raising over $37 million for Ukrainian relief efforts in 2022.
Ashton Kutcher: From Michael Kelso to Entrepreneur and Philanthropist
Ashton Kutcher’s portrayal of the lovable yet dim-witted Michael Kelso became a fan favorite. Post-That ’70s Show, Kutcher found success in both film and television, starring in Two and a Half Men and films like Dude, Where’s My Car? and Jobs. Beyond acting, Kutcher co-founded the venture capital firm A-Grade Investments, funding startups like Duolingo.
Kutcher is also deeply involved in philanthropy. Through his foundation, Thorn, he combats child exploitation and human trafficking. Married to Mila Kunis, Kutcher also made a guest appearance in That ’90s Show, calling the reunion a nostalgic experience.
Wilmer Valderrama: From Fez to Multitalented Performer
Wilmer Valderrama’s quirky portrayal of Fez, the foreign exchange student, endeared him to audiences. After That ’70s Show, Valderrama diversified his career by voicing Handy Manny on Disney Junior and joining the cast of NCIS as Special Agent Nick Torres.
In addition to acting, Valderrama is a USO Global Ambassador, advocating for military families. He shares a daughter with his fiancée Amanda Pacheco, and like many of his co-stars, returned for a cameo in That ’90s Show.
Debra Jo Rupp and Kurtwood Smith: The Heart of the Forman Family
Debra Jo Rupp and Kurtwood Smith delivered iconic performances as Kitty and Red Forman, Eric’s parents. Rupp’s comedic timing and Smith’s deadpan delivery made them fan favorites. Both actors have maintained steady careers, with Rupp appearing in WandaVision and Smith in The Dropout.
The duo reprised their roles as Kitty and Red in That ’90s Show, becoming the nostalgic anchor for the next generation of fans.
The Legacy of Lisa Robin Kelly and Tanya Roberts
Lisa Robin Kelly and Tanya Roberts, who played Laurie Forman and Midge Pinciotti, respectively, both left an impact on That ’70s Show. Kelly departed the series after season three and passed away in 2013 at the age of 43. Roberts, known for her role as a Bond girl, died in 2021, leaving behind cherished memories of her work on the show.
The Spin-Off: That ’90s Show
In 2023, Netflix premiered That ’90s Show, bringing fans back to Point Place with a new generation of characters. Many original cast members, including Grace, Prepon, Kutcher, Kunis, Valderrama, Rupp, and Smith, made guest appearances, delighting longtime fans. The spin-off maintained the humor and heart of the original while introducing fresh faces to carry on the legacy.
Conclusion
That ’70s Show remains a beloved sitcom that captured the spirit of adolescence, friendship, and humor. Its talented cast has continued to thrive in diverse careers, leaving an enduring legacy both on and off the screen. As the show continues to charm new generations through reruns and spin-offs, its stars remind us of the timeless appeal of a well-crafted ensemble and unforgettable storytelling.
