Bad News Bears (2005) Cast: Where Are They Now?

Hey guys! Remember the remake of The Bad News Bears that dropped in 2005? It was a pretty fun flick, bringing that classic underdog baseball story to a new generation. We got to see some familiar faces and some fresh talent step up to the plate. But what have those young stars been up to since they were slugging it out on the diamond? Let's dive in and see where the Bad News Bears 2005 cast members are today!

The Coach: Billy Bob Thornton as Morris Buttermaker

When you think of The Bad News Bears 2005 cast, one name instantly comes to mind: Billy Bob Thornton. He took on the iconic role of Morris Buttermaker, the washed-up, alcoholic former baseball player who reluctantly coaches the Little League team. Thornton brought his signature gruff charm and unexpected tenderness to the role, making Buttermaker a character you couldn't help but root for, despite his flaws. Since this film, Thornton has continued to be a powerhouse in Hollywood. He's known for his incredible range, starring in everything from intense dramas like Friday Night Lights (where he also played a coach, interestingly enough!) and The Judge, to quirky comedies and critically acclaimed television series. His role as Lorne Malvo in the first season of the FX anthology series Fargo earned him an Emmy nomination and widespread praise for his chilling performance. He also reprised his role as Willie T. Stokes in the Bad Santa sequels, proving he's still got that holiday spirit (or lack thereof!). Billy Bob Thornton's career is a testament to his enduring talent and his ability to inhabit complex characters. He’s a true acting legend, and his presence in The Bad News Bears was a major draw for audiences, adding a layer of gritty realism to the otherwise lighthearted sports comedy. It’s always a treat to see him on screen, whether he’s delivering a heartfelt monologue or a sarcastic zinger. His performance in the 2005 film really set the tone for the rest of the cast, creating a dynamic that was both humorous and touching, which is a tough balance to strike. He really elevated the material, making the kids' journey feel that much more significant.

The Star Player: Sammi Kraft as Amanda Whurlitzer

Next up, we have Sammi Kraft, who played the incredibly talented, albeit reluctant, pitcher Amanda Whurlitzer. Amanda was the ace of the team, a real prodigy who just wanted to be treated like one of the guys. Kraft nailed the role, showing a maturity beyond her years as she navigated the pressures of being the team's star. After The Bad News Bears, Sammi Kraft's acting career didn't quite reach the same heights as some of her co-stars, but that doesn't mean she disappeared. It's quite common for child actors to take different paths as they grow older, and Kraft is no exception. Information about her current endeavors is a bit more private, which is totally understandable. Many former child stars choose to step away from the spotlight to pursue other interests or a more private life. We respect that! She did have a few other small roles after Bad News Bears, including appearances in The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and a short film called The First Step. While she might not be gracing our screens regularly, it's important to remember the impact she made as Amanda. She was the emotional core of the team, the one with the raw talent that Buttermaker had to harness. Her journey from a disgruntled pitcher to a proud team member was a central arc of the film, and Kraft conveyed that transformation effectively. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most memorable performances come from actors who may not have long, continuous careers in the industry but leave a lasting impression with the roles they do take on. We wish her all the best in whatever she's pursuing now!

The Catcher: Brandon Craggs as Tanner

Brandon Craggs played Tanner, the enthusiastic, often over-the-top catcher who was totally devoted to Buttermaker (or at least, his ideas). Tanner was the comic relief, always ready with a quip or an exaggerated reaction. Craggs brought a lot of energy to the role, making Tanner a character you couldn't forget, even if he was a bit of a loudmouth. Like many of the young actors from the film, Craggs hasn't had a prolific acting career post-Bad News Bears. He had a few small TV appearances after the movie, including an episode of ER. It seems that the demanding nature of the acting industry can be tough for young performers, and many find their way to different careers. Craggs has largely stayed out of the public eye since his time on the baseball field. It’s a common narrative for child actors – they have a breakout role, and then they often step back from the spotlight. While we don't have many updates on Brandon Craggs specifically, we can appreciate the fun and energy he brought to Tanner. He was the perfect foil to Amanda's stoicism and Buttermaker's cynicism, adding a layer of unadulterated enthusiasm that the team desperately needed. His portrayal was memorable, and he definitely added to the overall charm of the ensemble. Who could forget his unshakeable belief in Buttermaker's baseball genius? It was classic!

The Outfielders and Infielders: The Rest of the Bears

Beyond the main players, the Bad News Bears 2005 cast included a bunch of other kids who made up the rest of the lovable, inept team. Let's take a quick look at some of them:

• Ritchie Victor as Joey : Joey was one of the more quirky members of the team, often providing some of the film's funniest moments with his unique personality. Victor hasn't had a major acting career since the film, and like many of his young co-stars, seems to have transitioned out of the spotlight. He definitely added a unique flavor to the squad!
• Troy Gentile as Timmy Lundous : Timmy was another energetic kid on the team, often seen with Tanner. Gentile has actually had a more notable career trajectory since Bad News Bears. He landed a starring role as Barry Goldberg in the popular ABC sitcom The Goldbergs. This show has been a massive success, and Gentile has proven himself to be a talented comedic actor, showcasing his ability to carry a role over multiple seasons. It's awesome to see him find such sustained success!
• Sammi Rotibi as Reginald : While not one of the