The Cast of ALF: Then and Now – Where Are They Now?
Hello there, ALF fans! Buckle up as we take a nostalgic trip down memory lane to revisit the furry, lovable alien who stole our hearts in the '80s and '90s. We're talking about none other than Gordon Shumway, or as we knew him, ALF! Today, we're going to catch up with the cast of ALF, then and now. So, grab your favorite snack (Tanner family-style – maybe some frozen waffles?), and let's dive in! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and cast of alf then and now.
ALF Himself – Paul Fusco
Paul Fusco, the mastermind behind ALF's voice and puppetry, was the show's co-creator alongside Tom Patchett. He brought ALF to life with his ingenious humor and creativity.
Paul Fusco, the creative genius behind ALF, has kept himself busy since the show's finale in 1990. After ALF, Paul co-created and produced the short-lived sitcom The Tick in 1994, which also featured the voice of the iconic superhero. He later ventured into producing and writing for various other TV shows and films, including The Wild Thornberrys and Rugrats.
In recent years, Paul has been focusing on his production company, Fusco Entertainment. He's also been involved in various ALF-related projects, including a failed attempt at an ALF reboot in 2018. While the reboot didn't materialize, it's clear that Paul's love for ALF remains strong.
Fun fact: Paul Fusco also voiced ALF's nemesis, Skip, in the series!
The Tanners – The Human Family That Adopted ALF
Max Wright as Willie Tanner
Max Wright, the actor who brought us the lovable, long-suffering Willie Tanner, was a staple in the '80s and '90s.
Since ALF, Max Wright has made numerous appearances on TV shows like The John Larroquette Show, Mad About You, and Frasier. He also had a recurring role in the medical drama ER. In 2007, Max reprised his role as Willie Tanner in the ALF reunion episode of 30 Rock.
Sadly, Max Wright passed away in 2019 due to complications from cancer. He was 75 years old. His portrayal of Willie Tanner will always be remembered, and his impact on the show will live on.
Anne Schedeen as Kate Tanner
Anne Schedeen played the kind-hearted and patient Kate Tanner, ALF's human mom away from home.
After ALF, Anne Schedeen continued her acting career with roles in various TV shows and films. She appeared in episodes of Cheers, Murder, She Wrote, and NYPD Blue. Anne also had a recurring role in the soap opera Santa Barbara.
In recent years, Anne has made a name for herself as a painter and artist. She's also been involved in various charity projects, including raising awareness for breast cancer. You can find her art on her official website.
Fun fact: Anne Schedeen was the only cast member who appeared in every single episode of ALF!
Anderson Sawyer and Benji Gregory as Brian and Skip Tanner
Anderson Sawyer and Benji Gregory played the Tanner boys, Brian and Skip, who were both fascinated and frustrated by their furry, Melmacian brother.
After ALF, Anderson Sawyer continued acting in various TV shows and films. He appeared in episodes of Growing Pains, Doogie Howser, M.D., and Boy Meets World. In recent years, Anderson has focused on his music career, releasing several albums under the name Andy Sawyer.
Benji Gregory, on the other hand, retired from acting in the late '90s. He's since pursued a career in finance and lives a low-key life away from the spotlight.
The Neighborhood – The Tanners' Friends and Foes
John LaMotta as Jake Oberon
John LaMotta played the Tanners' eccentric, conspiracy-loving neighbor, Jake Oberon.
After ALF, John LaMotta continued acting in various TV shows and films. He appeared in episodes of Murder, She Wrote, NYPD Blue, and JAG. John also had a recurring role in the soap opera General Hospital.
In recent years, John has been focusing on his painting and has had several art exhibitions. He's also been involved in various charity projects, including raising awareness for autism.
Liz Sheridan as Mahoney
Liz Sheridan played the Tanners' other neighbor, the lovably kooky Mahoney.
Liz Sheridan is best known for her role as Helen Burkhart, the mother of Jerry Seinfeld's character in Seinfeld. She appeared in all nine seasons of the show, from 1989 to 1998.
Since Seinfeld, Liz has continued acting in various TV shows and films. She's also written a memoir called Dressing Up for the Cannibals: An Actor's Life in Television.
Josh Blake as Trevor Ochmonek
Josh Blake played the Tanners' other neighbor, the mischievous and annoying Trevor Ochmonek.
After ALF, Josh Blake continued acting in various TV shows and films. He appeared in episodes of Doogie Howser, M.D., Step by Step, and Beverly Hills, 90210. Josh also had a recurring role in the soap opera Santa Barbara.
In recent years, Josh has been focusing on his music career, releasing several albums under the name Joshua Blake. He's also been involved in various charity projects, including raising awareness for autism.
The ALF Spin-offs and Reunion
ALF: The Animated Series
In 1987, ALF got his own animated spin-off series, ALF: The Animated Series. The show featured the voices of the original cast, including Paul Fusco as ALF. The series ran for two seasons and 26 episodes.
ALF's Hit Talk Show
In 1996, ALF returned to TV with ALF's Hit Talk Show. The show featured ALF interviewing various celebrities, including Jerry Seinfeld, Tom Hanks, and Whoopi Goldberg. Unfortunately, the show only lasted for one season.
ALF Reunion and ALF: The Movie
In 2004, the cast of ALF reunited for a TV special called ALF's Happy New Year. The special featured the original cast reminiscing about their time on the show and even reprised some of their iconic scenes.
In 2018, there were rumors of an ALF reboot and even a movie. However, neither project has materialized, much to the disappointment of ALF fans everywhere.
The Legacy of ALF
ALF was a groundbreaking show that brought laughter and warmth into our homes for nearly a decade. The show's unique premise, hilarious writing, and lovable cast made it a staple of '80s and '90s TV. While the show may be over, its impact on pop culture is undeniable.
From ALF-themed Halloween costumes to countless references in movies and TV shows, the furry Melmacian has left an indelible mark on our collective consciousness. And who can forget the iconic theme song, "ALF's Song," which is still stuck in our heads all these years later?
Fun fact: The ALF puppet used in the show was so lifelike that it could even blink and raise its eyebrows!
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks! A nostalgic trip down memory lane with the cast of ALF, then and now. While some of our favorite ALF actors have moved on to other projects, their impact on the show and pop culture will always be remembered.
As for ALF himself, Paul Fusco has hinted that there are still more ALF adventures to come. So, keep your eyes peeled, and maybe, just maybe, we'll see our furry friend grace our screens once again.
Until then, thanks for joining us on this journey, and remember: "Help me, help me, help me!"