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Bad News Bears 2005 Cast: Where Are They Now?

Oct 23, 2025 by Alex Braham 46 views

Bad News Bears 2005 Cast: Where Are They Now?Hello there, guys! Get ready to take a trip down memory lane with us as we dive into one of those truly *classic* underdog stories that just sticks with you: ***Bad News Bears*** from 2005. Remember that flick? It was a hilarious, heartfelt, and sometimes wonderfully inappropriate remake of the iconic 1976 film, bringing a fresh, modern twist to the tale of a bunch of misfit kids and their reluctant, beer-guzzling coach. This movie wasn't just another remake; it really captured the spirit of the original while appealing to a new generation, thanks to its fantastic cast and sharp wit. We all know the story: a motley crew of baseball-challenged youngsters, led by their phenomenal pitcher Amanda Whurlitzer and their surprisingly talented slugger Kelly Leak, somehow find themselves under the wing of Morris Buttermaker, played brilliantly by the one and only Billy Bob Thornton. He’s a former minor league player, now an exterminator with a serious drinking habit, who’s coerced into coaching a Little League team that frankly, well, sucks. The journey of these *Bad News Bears* from zero to… well, still not heroes, but certainly a team with heart, is what made the movie so special. It taught us about teamwork, accepting differences, and finding joy in the effort, not just the win.The film’s humor came from its willingness to be a bit edgy, showing the imperfections of both the kids and the adults around them, which made it feel incredibly real and relatable. You couldn't help but root for these underdogs, even when they were making a complete mess of things. But beyond the laughs and the heartwarming moments, a huge part of the film's enduring appeal lies with its *Bad News Bears 2005 cast*. These young actors, alongside their seasoned adult co-stars, brought so much personality and authenticity to their roles, making us believe in every single character, from the timid Engelberg to the fiery Amanda. So, grab a soda (or a frosty beverage if you're over 21, just like Buttermaker might prefer!), because we’re about to catch up with the talented individuals who made *Bad News Bears 2005* such a memorable movie. We’re going to explore **where the Bad News Bears 2005 cast is now**, what they’ve been up to since hitting those home runs (or striking out magnificently), and how their careers have evolved. It’s always fascinating to see how child stars grow and how established actors continue to shine, and this cast definitely has some interesting stories to tell. Let's dig in and see what our favorite misfit baseball team has been up to!### Billy Bob Thornton as Morris ButtermakerOur main man, the one and only **Billy Bob Thornton**, absolutely *crushed it* as Morris Buttermaker, the down-and-out, whiskey-loving, and surprisingly wise coach of the *Bad News Bears* in the 2005 remake. Thornton’s portrayal was a masterclass in combining gruffness with a hidden heart of gold, giving us a character who was far from perfect but utterly endearing. He embodied the role with such natural ease, making Buttermaker’s reluctance and eventual affection for his team completely believable. His dry wit and cynical charm were perfect for the character, a man who saw the world for what it was but couldn't help but be drawn into the plight of these lovable losers. Before *Bad News Bears*, Billy Bob Thornton was already a highly respected and recognizable name in Hollywood, a true chameleon known for his diverse roles and Academy Award-winning talent. He first gained widespread critical acclaim as a writer, director, and star of the independent film ***Sling Blade*** in 1996, for which he won an Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay and received a nomination for Best Actor. That film really put him on the map as a formidable force in the industry, showcasing his unique storytelling voice and intense acting prowess.Throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, Thornton cemented his status as a versatile actor, appearing in a wide array of films. He played a memorable role in the disaster epic ***Armageddon*** (1998), starred opposite Angelina Jolie in ***Pushing Tin*** (1999), and delivered standout performances in critically acclaimed dramas like ***A Simple Plan*** (1998), which earned him another Oscar nomination, and ***The Man Who Wasn't There*** (2001). He also showed his comedic chops in films such as ***Bad Santa*** (2003), a role that arguably set the stage for his perfectly grumpy Buttermaker, demonstrating his ability to play morally ambiguous characters with a comedic twist.After *Bad News Bears*, Billy Bob Thornton continued his prolific career, jumping between film and television projects with his characteristic intensity and charm. He’s never one to shy away from complex or quirky characters. In television, he absolutely blew everyone away with his performance as Lorne Malvo in the first season of FX’s anthology series ***Fargo*** (2014), a role that earned him a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor. He then went on to star in another critically acclaimed series, ***Goliath*** (2016-2021), where he played Billy McBride, a washed-up lawyer seeking redemption. This role earned him *another* Golden Globe, proving that his talent is as strong as ever, and that he can command the screen in a long-form narrative just as effectively as he does in feature films. On the big screen, he revisited his iconic role in ***Bad Santa 2*** (2016), much to the delight of fans, and continued to appear in various films, showcasing his enduring versatility. Billy Bob isn't just an actor; he’s also an accomplished musician, releasing several albums over the years, often blending rock, country, and blues, which really speaks to his artistic depth. His private life has also garnered attention over the years, including his marriage to Angelina Jolie, but through it all, his dedication to his craft has remained unwavering. Billy Bob Thornton is a true Hollywood legend, and his portrayal of Morris Buttermaker in *Bad News Bears 2005* is just one more shining example of his incredible range and ability to bring unforgettable characters to life. He remains an active and respected figure in the entertainment industry, constantly surprising us with new projects and memorable performances.### Sammi Kane Kraft as Amanda WhurlitzerNext up, let's talk about the incredible **Sammi Kane Kraft**, who played the pivotal role of Amanda Whurlitzer, the *Bad News Bears'* ace pitcher, in the 2005 film. Amanda was the heart and soul of the team, the girl who could throw heat and who brought a much-needed dose of seriousness and talent to the otherwise chaotic group. Sammi brought a remarkable authenticity and strength to Amanda, making her character instantly likable and truly inspiring. She wasn't just a tough girl on the mound; she was also the empathetic anchor for many of her teammates, showing that *girls could play ball just as well, if not better*, than the boys. Her performance was a standout, especially considering her young age and the fact that this was her very first major acting role. It's truly amazing when a young actor steps onto the scene and immediately commands attention, and Sammi certainly did that.Born in Livingston, New Jersey, Sammi was actually discovered for the role of Amanda during an open casting call in Los Angeles. What’s even cooler is that she wasn't just acting; she was a genuinely gifted athlete! Before getting the part in *Bad News Bears*, Sammi was already a talented baseball player, participating in various youth leagues. She was also a *skilled boxer*, a sprinter, and played several other sports, which undoubtedly contributed to her believable portrayal of Amanda. Her athletic background was not just a plus; it was absolutely essential in making Amanda feel like a legitimate threat on the baseball field. After her big screen debut in *Bad News Bears*, many fans might have expected Sammi Kane Kraft to continue pursuing a bustling acting career, given her natural talent and charismatic presence. However, she mostly stepped away from the limelight, choosing a different path. While she did appear in an independent film called ***Recess: South Hanes*** in 2011, her primary focus shifted elsewhere. She continued to hone her musical talents, becoming an accomplished drummer and singer-songwriter. Sammi was part of a band called the Fez, and she shared her original music, showcasing a different creative side of her personality. This period showed her evolving as an artist, exploring different avenues of self-expression beyond acting.Tragically, the story of Sammi Kane Kraft took a devastating turn. In October 2012, at the far too young age of 20, Sammi passed away in a car accident in Los Angeles. She was a passenger in a vehicle that collided with a tractor-trailer. The news of her death was met with immense sadness by fans, her former castmates, and everyone who remembered her vibrant performance in *Bad News Bears*. Her untimely passing was a profound loss, not just for the entertainment industry, but for her family and friends. It's heartbreaking to think of the potential she had, both as an artist and as a person. Although her time with us was cut short, Sammi Kane Kraft left an indelible mark with her unforgettable role as Amanda Whurlitzer. She brought a powerful, inspiring female character to the screen, showing young girls everywhere that they could be strong, competitive, and lead the way. Her legacy lives on through the film, and she is remembered as a talented athlete, a promising musician, and a bright, spirited individual who brought so much life to the *Bad News Bears* team. Her performance remains a beloved part of the movie's charm and is a testament to her unique spirit.### Greg Kinnear as Roy BullockAlright, guys, let’s talk about another crucial adult figure in the *Bad News Bears* universe, the perpetually exasperated and ultra-competitive rival coach, **Roy Bullock**, played to perfection by the ever-charming **Greg Kinnear**. Kinnear brought a fantastic blend of smarminess and genuine paternal pride to the character of Roy, who coaches the Yankees, the *Bad News Bears'* fiercest rivals. Roy is everything Buttermaker isn't: organized, clean-cut, and obsessed with winning at all costs, especially when it comes to his own son, Joey. Kinnear’s performance was spot-on, making Roy both a comedic foil and a surprisingly layered character, someone you loved to hate but also understood, given his intense desire for his son’s success. He perfectly captured that specific brand of suburban dad intensity that sometimes goes a little overboard in youth sports, highlighting the pressures kids can face.Before stepping onto the baseball field for *Bad News Bears*, Greg Kinnear had already carved out a highly successful and diverse career in Hollywood, making a name for himself as a charismatic and versatile actor. He first gained widespread recognition as the original host of E!'s *Talk Soup* in the early 1990s, where his quick wit and engaging personality shone through. This led to his big break in film, particularly with his Academy Award-nominated role in the 1997 romantic comedy-drama ***As Good as It Gets***, opposite Jack Nicholson and Helen Hunt. In that film, he played a gay artist who is brutally attacked, and his performance earned him critical acclaim and firmly established him as a serious dramatic actor capable of holding his own against legends.Throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, Kinnear continued to impress with a variety of roles, showcasing his range in both comedic and dramatic fare. He starred in the romantic comedy ***You've Got Mail*** (1998) alongside Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan, and delivered a memorable performance in the superhero satire ***Mystery Men*** (1999). He also took on more complex dramatic roles in films like ***Nurse Betty*** (2000) and ***We Were Soldiers*** (2002), demonstrating his ability to effortlessly transition between genres. His work prior to *Bad News Bears* made him a recognizable and respected face in the industry, known for his affable demeanor but also his capacity for intensity when a role called for it.After *Bad News Bears*, Greg Kinnear's career continued to flourish with a steady stream of film and television projects. He’s one of those actors who consistently delivers strong performances, no matter the size of the role. On the big screen, he starred in critically acclaimed films such as ***Little Miss Sunshine*** (2006), a beloved independent comedy-drama that earned him and the cast numerous awards, and ***Green Zone*** (2010), a thrilling war film. He also took on biographical roles, playing John F. Kennedy in ***The Kennedys*** miniseries (2011) and later appearing in ***Confirmation*** (2016) and ***Detroit*** (2017). His television work has been particularly notable in recent years. Kinnear earned an Emmy nomination for his work in the miniseries ***The Kennedys***, and he later starred in the legal drama ***Rake*** (2014) and had a significant recurring role in the final season of the popular Netflix political drama ***House of Cards*** (2018). More recently, he’s been seen in the horror series ***The Stand*** (2020) and the acclaimed Apple TV+ series ***Black Bird*** (2022), showcasing his continued ability to pick compelling projects and adapt to new platforms. Greg Kinnear is a true professional, consistently bringing depth and nuance to his characters, and his role as Roy Bullock in *Bad News Bears 2005* remains a fun highlight in his extensive and impressive career.### Marcia Gay Harden as Liz WhitnerLet's give a huge shout-out to the phenomenal **Marcia Gay Harden**, who graced *Bad News Bears 2005* with her talent as Liz Whitner. Liz is Toby’s mom and a single parent who, despite her busy schedule, steps up to organize the *Bad News Bears* and deal with Buttermaker’s less-than-conventional coaching style. Harden brought a wonderful blend of strength, warmth, and exasperation to Liz, making her a grounded and relatable character who represented the dedicated parents trying to make things work amidst the chaos. She’s the practical one, the voice of reason who isn't afraid to challenge Buttermaker but also genuinely cares for the team and her son. Her portrayal added a much-needed layer of maturity and heart to the film's adult dynamics, grounding the antics in real-world parental concerns.Marcia Gay Harden was already a highly respected and Oscar-winning actress long before she joined the *Bad News Bears* family. She burst onto the scene in the late 1980s and quickly established herself as a versatile performer. Her career trajectory is a testament to her incredible range and ability to inhabit diverse characters with authenticity. She won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her powerful portrayal of painter Lee Krasner in the 2000 biographical drama ***Pollock***, a performance that showcased her intense dramatic capabilities. This victory firmly cemented her status as one of Hollywood's most esteemed actresses, capable of delivering profound and nuanced performances.Before her *Bad News Bears* role, Harden had an impressive filmography that included critically acclaimed works like ***Miller's Crossing*** (1990), a Coen Brothers gangster film; ***Flubber*** (1997), a family comedy where she showed her lighter side; and the epic drama ***Mystic River*** (2003), which earned her another Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. In ***Mystic River***, her portrayal of a grieving wife was heartbreaking and deeply resonant, showcasing her ability to convey immense emotional depth. Her varied roles demonstrated that she wasn't just a dramatic powerhouse; she could handle comedy and supporting roles with equal grace and impact, always bringing a certain gravitas and intelligence to her characters.After her turn as the ever-patient Liz Whitner, Marcia Gay Harden continued her impressive run in both film and television, maintaining her reputation as a formidable and sought-after actress. On the big screen, she appeared in films such as ***The Mist*** (2007), a terrifying horror film based on a Stephen King novella, where she delivered a memorable and chilling performance. She also took on roles in romantic comedies like ***The Maiden Heist*** (2009) and dramas like ***Parkland*** (2013). Her versatility allowed her to seamlessly transition between independent features and major studio productions.However, it’s in television where Harden has truly shined in recent years, proving her adaptability to the evolving landscape of entertainment. She had a prominent role in the legal drama ***Damages***, which earned her an Emmy nomination, and later became a beloved regular on the medical drama ***Code Black*** (2015-2018), where she played Dr. Leanne Rorish, the fierce residency director. Her performance in *Code Black* was a particular highlight, earning her critical praise for her strong and compassionate portrayal. More recently, she starred in the Netflix series ***Uncoupled*** (2022) alongside Neil Patrick Harris, showcasing her comedic timing once again. She also led the CBS legal drama ***So Help Me Todd*** (2022-present), where she plays a high-powered attorney working with her private investigator son. Marcia Gay Harden continues to be a vibrant and active presence in Hollywood, consistently delivering compelling performances and showcasing her incredible range. Her role in *Bad News Bears 2005* as the steadfast Liz Whitner is a testament to her ability to elevate any project she’s a part of, bringing depth and humanity to every character.### What About the Rest of the Team? The Young Stars!Okay, guys, while we’ve delved deep into the adult leads, let's not forget the heart of the *Bad News Bears* story: the incredible ensemble of young actors who brought the misfit team to life! These kids were truly fantastic, each one adding their own unique flavor to the team, and it’s super interesting to see where their paths have taken them since their days on the diamond. Many of them were quite young when they filmed *Bad News Bears 2005*, and their experiences on set were often their first big break in Hollywood. It’s always a roll of the dice whether child actors continue in the industry, and for this crew, it’s a mix of continuing success, stepping away from the spotlight, and some surprising turns.Let’s kick things off with **Ridge Canipe**, who played Toby Whitner, Liz’s son and a genuinely good kid who always tries his best. Ridge was already a bit of a seasoned young actor before *Bad News Bears*, having appeared in other projects. After the film, he continued to land significant roles, most notably playing a young Johnny Cash in the critically acclaimed biopic ***Walk the Line*** (2005) in the same year as *Bad News Bears*. Talk about a busy year! He also had a recurring role as a young Dean Winchester in the hugely popular TV series ***Supernatural***, which endeared him to a massive fanbase. Ridge continued to act in various TV shows and films throughout the late 2000s and early 2010s, showing a promising career trajectory. While his acting credits have become less frequent in recent years, he definitely made a lasting impression with his early work, demonstrating a natural talent for both dramatic and more lighthearted roles. He was one of those child actors who could really convey emotion and depth beyond his years.Then we have **Troy Gentile**, who played Matthew Hooper, the chubby, sarcastic catcher with a great sense of humor. Troy's comedic timing in *Bad News Bears* was fantastic, and he quickly became a recognizable face. After the movie, he went on to star in other films like ***Nacho Libre*** (2006) and ***Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny*** (2006), often playing similar lovable, comedic roles. However, his most significant and enduring role came in television. Troy found widespread fame as Barry Goldberg in the hit ABC sitcom ***The Goldbergs*** (2013-2023), a role he played for a remarkable ten seasons. As Barry, he was loud, confident, and utterly hilarious, becoming a fan favorite and showcasing his incredible comedic chops for over a decade. He truly carved out a niche for himself in television, proving that his *Bad News Bears* performance was just the beginning of a long and successful career in comedy. It’s pretty awesome to see a kid from the Bears grow up and headline a major network show for so long.We can't forget **Brandon Craggs**, who portrayed Alfred Ogilvie, the smart, bespectacled kid who initially struggles on the field but eventually finds his rhythm. Brandon had a few other acting credits after *Bad News Bears*, including appearances in TV shows like ***Everybody Hates Chris*** and ***Lincoln Heights***, but he seems to have largely stepped away from acting in recent years. Many child actors choose different paths as they grow older, and it’s completely understandable. The experience of being on a film set like *Bad News Bears* is incredible, but a career in the demanding world of entertainment isn’t for everyone.Similarly, **Jeffrey Tedmori**, who played the timid and snack-loving Engelberg, and **Seth Adkins**, who played the confident and cocky Kelly Leak (the bad boy who eventually joins the Bears), also had acting careers that spanned various TV shows and films before and after *Bad News Bears*. Seth, for instance, had a rather extensive resume as a child actor, appearing in films like ***Titus*** and numerous TV series. While they may not be in the headlines as much today, their contributions to the *Bad News Bears* team were invaluable, creating a memorable ensemble that truly made the film special. Each young actor brought a piece of themselves to their characters, making the team feel authentic and relatable, from the smallest roles to the biggest. Their collective performance is a huge reason why the movie continues to resonate with audiences, reminding us all of those awkward, exhilarating, and ultimately heartwarming days of youth sports. It's truly a testament to the casting directors and the young talent that they found such a perfect blend of personalities.### The Enduring Legacy of the Bad News Bears 2005 CastAnd so, we've rounded the bases, guys, taking a fascinating look at the **Bad News Bears 2005 cast** and where life has led them since they first charmed us on the baseball field. It’s truly amazing to see the diverse paths that these talented individuals have taken, from Oscar winners continuing to dominate Hollywood, to young stars finding their voice in long-running television series, and even those who, sadly, left us too soon, leaving behind a memorable legacy. The journey of the *Bad News Bears* itself, from a team of misfits to a squad that found its heart, mirrors the unpredictable and often inspiring journeys of its cast members. This movie wasn’t just a simple remake; it was a film that captured a specific energy, a blend of irreverent humor and genuine warmth that resonated deeply with audiences, and that's largely thanks to the phenomenal group of actors who brought it to life.The enduring appeal of *Bad News Bears 2005* isn't just about nostalgia; it’s about the timeless themes it explores. It’s a story about finding value in effort over outcome, about the importance of teamwork even when you're all very different, and about the sometimes-unconventional bonds that form between people. Billy Bob Thornton’s Morris Buttermaker taught us that even the most cynical among us can find something to care about, and Sammi Kane Kraft’s Amanda Whurlitzer showed us that strength and talent know no gender. Greg Kinnear and Marcia Gay Harden provided the necessary adult grounding and conflict, while the young ensemble, including talents like Troy Gentile and Ridge Canipe, brought boundless energy and relatability to their roles as the titular

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