Phoebe Cates’ Transformation Photos From Then and Now: See What the ’80s Teen Idol Looks Like Today

1980s

Phoebe ventured into the acting world as a teen in 1982, snagging a role in Paradise. That same year, starred in Fast Times at Ridgemont High, making headlines with her famous bikini scene. Her costar Jennifer Jason Leigh opened up about how she consulted Phoebe for advice early on in their careers.
“I remember I asked you about nudity, because I was really nervous about doing it. I had done some, but not a lot, and you were like, ‘Eh, it’s not that big a deal,’” Jennifer told Interview Magazine in September 2018.

1985

Three years after Fast Times, Phoebe stepped out in a blue jacket, fresh off the success of 1984’s Gremlins. She was unstoppable!

1998

Phoebe rocked a blunt bob haircut in this headshot. The Bright Lights, Big City actress ended up taking a bit of an acting hiatus in the mid-’90s up until the early 2000s.

2002

The New York native made her return to films in 2001’s The Anniversary Party. She stepped out in an all-black ensemble, showing off her ageless appearance.

2007

Phoebe attended the Trade Premiere at The United Nations. She opened up a boutique called Blue Tree in the Big Apple in 2005.

2009

Phoebe dazzled in a red gown at the 81st Annual Academy Awards held at the Kodak Theatre.

2010

Phoebe, who married husband Kevin Cline in 1989, decided to raise her kids, Owen and Greta, out of the spotlight. Kevin opened up about their family dynamic in a 2015 interview with Parade.

“We have dinner all together once a week at least,” he said. “The kids haven’t banished us from their lives.”

2017

She appeared at the 71st Annual Tony Awards at Radio City Music Hall. Two years prior to the event, she voiced a character in the Lego Dimensions video game.