“That ’70s Show” wasn’t just a sitcom; it was a cultural phenomenon that brought humor, heart, and a hefty dose of nostalgia to audiences. Airing from 1998 to 2006, it followed six teens navigating the ups and downs of adolescence in the fictional town of Point Place, Wisconsin, during the late 1970s. Let’s dive into what made the show iconic and catch up with its beloved stars.
The Heart of the Show: A Groovy Group of Friends
The series revolved around six teenage friends—Eric Forman, Donna Pinciotti, Steven Hyde, Jackie Burkhart, Michael Kelso, and Fez. Set in the mid-’70s, the show’s clever writing captured the quirks of the era, from bell-bottom jeans to basement hangouts. It wasn’t just about the laughs; it was about friendship, love, and the awkward (yet relatable) journey of growing up.
Topher Grace: The Reluctant Hero of Point Place
Topher Grace, who played the lovable and awkward Eric Forman, catapulted into stardom with his role. After leaving the show in its seventh season, he ventured into blockbuster films such as Spider-Man 3, where he portrayed Eddie Brock/Venom. Grace’s career spanned diverse genres with notable performances in Interstellar and BlacKkKlansman.
In his personal life, Grace married actress Ashley Hinshaw, and they now have three children. Returning to his roots, he made a guest appearance in That ’90s Show, much to fans’ delight.
Laura Prepon: From Donna Pinciotti to Netflix Star
Laura Prepon played Donna Pinciotti, the strong-willed girl-next-door. After That ’70s Show, Prepon took on edgier roles, most notably as Alex Vause in Netflix’s hit series Orange Is the New Black. Her portrayal won critical acclaim and awards for the ensemble cast.
Prepon has also become an author and entrepreneur, launching a cookbook and cookware line. She is married to actor Ben Foster, and the couple shares two children. She returned briefly for a cameo in That ’90s Show.
Mila Kunis: From Teen Star to A-List Actress
Mila Kunis joined the show as Jackie Burkhart at just 14 years old, famously lying about her age to secure the role. Since then, Kunis has soared to fame with movies like Black Swan, Friends with Benefits, and Ted. She also voices Meg Griffin on Family Guy.
Kunis married her former co-star Ashton Kutcher, and together they have two children. Beyond acting, Kunis made headlines for her philanthropic efforts, particularly her work in aiding Ukraine during its recent crisis.
Ashton Kutcher: The Lovable Goof-Turned-Philanthropist
Ashton Kutcher’s portrayal of the dim-witted yet charming Michael Kelso made him a fan favorite. Post-show, Kutcher expanded his career with films like Dude, Where’s My Car? and the hit TV series Two and a Half Men. He also became a savvy investor in tech startups through his venture capital firm, A-Grade Investments.
Kutcher co-founded Thorn, an organization combating child exploitation, and continues to balance Hollywood with humanitarian efforts. He and Kunis returned as Kelso and Jackie for a nostalgic cameo in That ’90s Show.
Wilmer Valderrama: From Fez to NCIS
Wilmer Valderrama’s portrayal of Fez, the quirky and lovable foreign exchange student, was a highlight of the series. After the show, Valderrama became the voice of Handy Manny on the Disney Channel and joined the cast of NCIS as Special Agent Nick Torres.
In addition to acting, Valderrama is a USO Global Ambassador and an advocate for Latino representation in Hollywood. He continues to make an impact both on and off-screen.
Debra Jo Rupp and Kurtwood Smith: The Iconic Forman Parents
Debra Jo Rupp and Kurtwood Smith brought humor and heart to the series as Kitty and Red Forman. Since That ’70s Show, Rupp appeared in various TV shows, including WandaVision, while Smith acted in critically acclaimed projects like The Dropout.
Both reprised their roles in That ’90s Show, proving that their dynamic as the Forman parents remains unmatched.
The Late Stars: Honoring Lisa Robin Kelly and Tanya Roberts
Lisa Robin Kelly, who played Laurie Forman, struggled with personal challenges after leaving the show and tragically passed away in 2013 at age 43. Tanya Roberts, known as Midge Pinciotti, passed away in 2021 at age 65. Both actresses are fondly remembered for their contributions to the series.
Tommy Chong: Leo the Hippie
Tommy Chong, the iconic comedian, played Leo, the lovable stoner. Beyond the show, Chong has continued performing in comedy and reality TV, including Dancing with the Stars and The Masked Singer. He returned as Leo in That ’90s Show, much to fans’ delight.
Josh Meyers: The New Guy in Season 8
Josh Meyers stepped in during the final season as Randy Pearson, a new member of the gang. Though his tenure was short-lived, Meyers has appeared in several TV shows and movies, including The Mindy Project and Pee-wee’s Big Holiday.
Don Stark: Bob Pinciotti’s Charm
Don Stark, who played Bob Pinciotti, has stayed active in the entertainment industry with roles in shows like Shameless and NCIS. He also made a guest appearance in That ’90s Show.
Danny Masterson: The Controversial Figure
Danny Masterson, who played the rebellious Steven Hyde, had a significant career post-That ’70s Show but faced legal troubles in recent years. Convicted of serious crimes in 2023, his absence from That ’90s Show was not addressed in the spin-off.
Legacy of “That ’70s Show”
“That ’70s Show” not only delivered laughs but also launched the careers of its talented ensemble cast. Its legacy endures through the spin-off That ’90s Show and the enduring love fans have for the original series. Whether reminiscing about the antics in Eric’s basement or revisiting the stars’ new ventures, the show remains a cultural touchstone for generations.
In conclusion, That ’70s Show and its cast have left an indelible mark on pop culture. From groundbreaking careers to heartfelt family moments, the stars continue to shine brightly in their respective paths, keeping the spirit of Point Place alive.
