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Where Are The Actors In 'Curly Sue' Now? The 2025 Update On Alisan Porter, Jim Belushi, And The Waiter Who Became A Superstar

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Released in 1991, the John Hughes classic Curly Sue captured the hearts of a generation, telling the story of the lovable con-artist duo, Bill Dancer and the titular young orphan. More than three decades later, the film remains a nostalgic favorite, but the lives and careers of the actors who brought these memorable characters to life have taken some truly unexpected turns. This exclusive December 2025 update reveals the latest projects, career shifts, and personal milestones of the core cast, from a major music victory to a surprising early role for an A-list comedy star.

The film, which was a departure from director John Hughes’s usual teen fare, launched some careers, redefined others, and even saw one major cast member transition into high-profile politics. We dive deep into where the key players from the Curly Sue cast are now, featuring their most current, fresh, and unique career information.

The Main Trio: From Con Artists to Current Projects

The emotional core of Curly Sue rested entirely on the chemistry between the three leads: the street-smart orphan, her devoted guardian, and the high-powered lawyer who changes their lives. Here is a detailed look at the current status of Alisan Porter, James Belushi, and Kelly Lynch.

Alisan Porter (Curly Sue)

Alisan Porter, who played the spirited 10-year-old Curly Sue, experienced one of the most significant and surprising career revivals of any child star. After taking a break from acting, her true passion—singing—led her to a massive, public victory.

  • Full Name: Alisan Porter
  • Role in Curly Sue: Curly Sue (Sue)
  • Date of Birth: June 20, 1981
  • Age (as of Dec 2025): 44
  • Major Career Highlight: Winner of Season 10 of NBC's singing competition, The Voice, in 2016.
  • Current Focus (2025): Actively pursuing her music career as a singer-songwriter. She is currently working on a full-length album and is embarking on "The Ride Tour" to promote her latest music.
  • Recent Music: Released the new single "California," showcasing her powerful vocals and songwriting skills.
  • Personal Life: She is a mother of three and celebrated her second wedding anniversary with her husband, Justin de Vera, in 2024.

Porter's transition from a beloved child actress to a successful adult musician and vocal coach has been an inspirational journey. Her victory on The Voice under coach Christina Aguilera cemented her status as a genuine vocal talent, far removed from the pigtails and mischievous grin of her iconic film role.

James Belushi (Bill Dancer)

James Belushi, the veteran actor and comedian who played the kind-hearted grifter Bill Dancer, has maintained a prolific career across film, television, and comedy, all while cultivating a unique side-hustle that has garnered significant attention.

  • Full Name: James Adam Belushi (Jim Belushi)
  • Role in Curly Sue: Bill Dancer
  • Date of Birth: June 15, 1954
  • Age (as of Dec 2025): 71
  • Major Career Highlight: Star of the long-running sitcom According to Jim (2001–2009) and former cast member on Saturday Night Live.
  • Current Projects (2025): Belushi is still active in the entertainment world. He is set to headline the 2025 Home For The Holidays Broadway Street Fair Concert, demonstrating his continued presence in the music and comedy scene.
  • Recent Film: He has a role in the 2025 film *Song Sung Blue*, a project that showcases his enduring ability to take on diverse character roles.
  • Unique Venture: Belushi is also well-known for his passion for cannabis farming, which is the subject of his reality television series.

Belushi’s portrayal of Bill Dancer, a role that balanced comedic timing with genuine paternal warmth, remains one of his most endearing film performances. His recent work proves that he is far from slowing down, continuing to embrace both acting and his love for the blues.

Kelly Lynch (Grey Ellison)

Kelly Lynch played Grey Ellison, the wealthy Chicago lawyer who is initially conned by Bill and Sue but eventually becomes their protector and love interest. Lynch has maintained a steady career in film and television, often taking on complex, compelling roles.

  • Full Name: Kelly Colleen Lynch
  • Role in Curly Sue: Grey Ellison
  • Date of Birth: January 31, 1959
  • Age (as of Dec 2025): 66
  • Major Career Highlight: Known for her roles in films like Road House, Drugstore Cowboy, and the TV series The L Word.
  • Current Project (2025): Lynch was highly visible at the 2025 AFI FEST, attending the premiere of her new movie, *Dead Man's Wire*.
  • Recent Role: In *Dead Man's Wire*, Lynch plays a parent, a role she discussed during interviews at the festival, showcasing her continued commitment to character-driven cinema.

Lynch's involvement in the 2025 film festival circuit confirms her ongoing relevance in the independent film world. Her performance as Grey Ellison, the sophisticated woman whose life is turned upside down by a pair of lovable vagrants, is a cornerstone of the Curly Sue narrative.

The Surprising Supporting Cast: A Comedy Titan and a US Senator

One of the most fascinating aspects of re-examining Curly Sue is discovering the now-famous faces who had minor roles, and the notable career turns of other supporting players. These entities add immense topical authority to the film’s legacy.

The Future Superstar: Steve Carell (Tesio)

Perhaps the most shocking revelation for modern audiences is the inclusion of a future comedy icon in a tiny, uncredited role. This was his cinematic debut.

  • Full Name: Steven John Carell
  • Role in Curly Sue: Tesio (The Waiter)
  • Significance: This was Steve Carell’s first-ever movie role, credited as Steven Carell.
  • The Role: Carell plays Tesio, a waiter at a local eatery. The role is brief but memorable, marking the very beginning of his legendary career.
  • Current Stature: Carell, of course, went on to become a global superstar, famous for *The Office*, *The 40-Year-Old Virgin*, and *Despicable Me*. His tiny part in Curly Sue is a beloved piece of Hollywood trivia.

It’s a testament to the eye of director John Hughes that he cast a young, unknown talent who would go on to define a generation of comedy. Watching the film now, Carell's brief appearance is a delightful "before they were famous" moment.

The Political Powerhouse: Fred Dalton Thompson (Bernard Oxbar)

Fred Dalton Thompson, who played the role of Bernard Oxbar, the lawyer who works for Grey Ellison, had a career that extended far beyond Hollywood.

  • Full Name: Freddie Dalton Thompson
  • Role in Curly Sue: Bernard Oxbar
  • Career Shift: Thompson was an accomplished attorney who later became a prominent politician.
  • Political Career: He served as a United States Senator representing Tennessee from 1994 to 2003.
  • Later Acting Roles: He was also well-known for playing District Attorney Arthur Branch on the long-running NBC series Law & Order.
  • Status: Thompson passed away in 2015, leaving behind a legacy as both a respected actor and a US Senator.

Thompson’s dual career as an actor and a politician—a US Senator, no less—is a unique footnote in the history of the Curly Sue cast, adding a layer of gravitas to the ensemble.

More Key Supporting Actors: Latest Career Moves

The strength of a John Hughes film often lies in its fully realized supporting characters. Two other actors who played pivotal roles in the film’s drama and comic relief continue to work steadily in the industry.

Branscombe Richmond (Albert)

Branscombe Richmond played Albert, the friendly doorman at the lavish Chicago hotel where Bill and Curly Sue temporarily take up residence. Richmond is a prolific character actor, often cast in roles that leverage his imposing physical presence.

  • Role in Curly Sue: Albert (The Doorman)
  • Current Projects (2025/2026): Richmond is still very active, with several recent and upcoming projects, including the movie *At Her Feet* and the 2025 film *Kangaroo Kids*. He is also listed in the cast for the 2026 film *The Wrecking Crew*.
  • Other Notables: He is widely recognized for his long-running role as Bobby Sixkiller in the popular 1990s TV series Renegade.

Richmond’s continuous work in film and television, with projects stretching into 2026, solidifies his status as a reliable and enduring presence in Hollywood.

John Getz (Walker McCormick)

John Getz played the antagonist, Walker McCormick, Grey Ellison's cold and calculating fiancé who represents the privileged world Bill and Sue are trying to escape. Getz is a highly respected character actor with a career spanning decades.

  • Role in Curly Sue: Walker McCormick (The Fiancé)
  • Recent Work: Getz continues to take on roles in both film and television. He was recently seen in the Netflix series *A Man on the Inside*, appearing in the first two seasons.
  • Career Trajectory: Known for his roles in classic films like The Fly and Blood Simple, Getz's career is a masterclass in supporting performances.

From the heartwarming story of a young girl finding a true family to the surprising career paths of its ensemble, the cast of Curly Sue has proven that their story was just the beginning. The film remains a cherished part of the John Hughes legacy, and its actors continue to make headlines in music, film, and television, ensuring the movie's relevance for a new generation of fans.

actors in curly sue
actors in curly sue

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