Then and Now: The Transformation of That '70s Show Cast Members

“That ‘70s Show” first aired in 1998, bringing audiences a comedic look at the lives of teenagers in the 1970s. The series, set in fictional Point Place, Wisconsin, ran for eight successful seasons and made stars out of its cast members. Now, over two decades later, many of the show’s stars have undergone significant professional and personal transformations. The That '70s Show cast includes actors who achieved considerable success in Hollywood, while others have taken different paths. Let’s examine their current status.

Topher Grace (Eric Forman)

Topher Grace played Eric Forman, the lovable but awkward teenager at the show's heart. As the show's lead, Grace's portrayal of Eric made him a household name. After That '70s Show, Topher transitioned into film, starring in movies like Spider-Man 3 (2007), Valentine’s Day (2010), and Black Klansman (2018), which garnered critical acclaim. Grace has also become known for his roles in television series such as The Hot Zone (2019) and Home Economics (2021).

While Grace left the Hollywood spotlight for a few years to focus on his family life, he’s slowly returned to acting, proving that his career after That '70s Show is far from over.

Mila Kunis (Jackie Burkhart)

Mila Kunis played the spoiled, sassy Jackie Burkhart, who eventually became one of the series' most beloved characters. After That '70s Show, Kunis found even greater fame in Hollywood. She starred in films like Forgetting Sarah Marshall (2008), Black Swan (2010), and Bad Moms (2016), the latter of which became a box-office hit.

Kunis’s success didn’t stop there. She also became a popular voice actress for the animated show Family Guy, voicing Meg Griffin since 1999. Kunis has enjoyed massive success in film and television, and her personal life with actor Ashton Kutcher has also made headlines. Together, they share two children.

Ashton Kutcher (Michael Kelso)

Ashton Kutcher joined the That ‘70s Show cast and played the dimwitted but charming Michael Kelso. His portrayal of Kelso earned him recognition, but his post-show career skyrocketed with the success of films like Dude, Where’s My Car? (2000) and The Butterfly Effect (2004). He also starred in the hit sitcom Two and a Half Men (2011-2015), replacing Charlie Sheen after his departure.

Beyond acting, Kutcher made a name for himself as a venture capitalist. His investments in tech companies like Skype, Uber, and Airbnb have paid off handsomely. Kutcher is also married to Mila Kunis, and they have become one of Hollywood’s most admired couples.

Danny Masterson (Steven Hyde)

Danny Masterson played Steven Hyde, a rebellious and sarcastic character who greatly influenced the show's dynamics. Following That ‘70s Show, Masterson starred in the spinoff The Ranch on Netflix (2016-2020) alongside Ashton Kutcher. However, in 2017, Masterson’s career suffered a significant setback due to allegations of sexual assault. These accusations led to his dismissal from The Ranch and a subsequent trial.

Masterson has kept a low profile since the trial, and it’s unclear what his future in Hollywood will look like. Nevertheless, That '70s Show remains a key part of his legacy.

Wilmer Valderrama (Fez)

Wilmer Valderrama played the lovable but awkward foreign exchange student Fez, and his performance left an indelible mark on That '70s Show. After the series ended, Valderrama continued to act, with roles in NCIS (2003-2023) being his longest-running and most successful project. He also starred in the hit sitcom That ‘70s Show spinoff The Ranch on Netflix (2016-2020).

Valderrama has become a beloved figure in film and TV. In recent years, he’s embraced a career as a producer. He’s also expanded his social media presence and remains active in advocacy work, especially in Latino communities.

Laura Prepon (Donna Pinciotti)

Laura Prepon joined That ‘70s Show cast and played Donna Pinciotti, the smart and independent teenager who was Eric’s girlfriend. After the show, Prepon starred in the critically acclaimed Netflix series Orange Is the New Black (2013-2019), where she played the character Alex Vause. This role earned her numerous accolades, including a SAG Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series.

Prepon has also ventured into writing and directing and become a health-conscious lifestyle advocate. In 2018, she published a book titled You and I, as Mothers, in which she shared her experiences as a mom. Preponed married actor Ben Foster, they have two children together.

Debra Jo Rupp (Kitty Forman)

Debra Jo Rupp played Eric’s sweet but sometimes quirky mother, Kitty Forman. Rupp’s career has been active since the end of That '70s Show. She appeared in numerous guest-starring roles, including on shows like Friends, Two and a Half Men, and This Is Us.

Rupp has continued to work in television, most recently appearing in the That '70s Show spinoff That '90s Show (2023). Fans of the original show were thrilled to see Rupp reprise her role as Kitty Forman in the new series, which has introduced a new generation of viewers to the world of That ‘70s Show.

Kurtwood Smith (Red Forman)

Kurtwood Smith played the strict, no-nonsense father, Red Forman, on That ‘70s Show. After the show ended, Smith continued to act, primarily on television, appearing on shows such as 24 (2001-2004) and The X-Files (1998-2002).

In 2023, Smith reprised his role as Red Forman on That '90s Show, where he shared his trademark tough love and sarcastic wit. Smith’s iconic role as Red continues to be one of the most memorable in television history, and he has earned a dedicated fan following for his portrayal of the no-nonsense patriarch.

Conclusion: The Lasting Legacy of That ‘70s Show Cast

The That ‘70s Show cast has remained a beloved group of actors who helped define television during the late ’90s and early 2000s. Over the years, they have transformed into successful actors, producers, and entrepreneurs. While some cast members faced controversies, many continued building their careers and staying in the spotlight.

Their journey from the iconic sitcom to their current roles reflects their acting skills, adaptability, and growth within the entertainment industry. The cast’s transformation has proven that That '70s Show was not just a moment in time. It was the beginning of lasting careers and a beloved legacy.

Fans continue to celebrate their favorite characters from the show, and with spinoffs and reunions, the That ‘70s Show legacy will undoubtedly live on for many years to come.