Money Pit Cast: Then and Now - The Stars Who Brought This Classic Comedy to Life

Introduction: A House That Keeps on Giving 🏠

Some movies stand the test of time not just because of their storylines, but because of the magical chemistry between their cast members. "The Money Pit," released in 1986, is undoubtedly one of those films. This classic comedy about homeownership gone terribly wrong has continued to resonate with audiences for nearly four decades, largely thanks to its brilliant cast led by Tom Hanks and Shelley Long.

Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering this gem for the first time, join me as we dive into the lives and careers of the Money Pit cast, exploring where they were then and where they are now. Get ready for some nostalgic laughs and fascinating career trajectories that might surprise you!

The Stars Who Brought The Money Pit to Life ⭐

Tom Hanks as Walter Fielding Jr.

Then: Rising Comedy Star 📈

When "The Money Pit" was released in 1986, Tom Hanks was still establishing himself as a leading man in Hollywood. Fresh off his successes in "Splash" and "Bachelor Party," Hanks brought his trademark everyman charm and impeccable comedic timing to the role of Walter Fielding Jr., a lawyer who, along with his girlfriend Anna, buys a suspiciously affordable mansion that immediately begins falling apart around them.

Hanks' physical comedy in the film is legendary, particularly the scene where he falls through the floor and his hysterical laughter as he watches his bathtub crash through the ceiling—moments that have become iconic in comedy history.

Now: Hollywood Legend 🏆

Today, Tom Hanks is one of the most respected and beloved actors in Hollywood. With two Academy Awards for "Philadelphia" and "Forrest Gump," Hanks has evolved from a comedy specialist to a versatile actor capable of commanding dramatic roles with equal skill.

In recent years, Hanks has continued to produce and star in critically acclaimed films like "Captain Phillips," "Bridge of Spies," "The Post," and "A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood." He's also become a successful producer, author, and director, cementing his legacy as one of the industry's most multifaceted talents.

Shelley Long as Anna Crowley

Then: Cheers Fame 🍻

Shelley Long took on the role of Anna Crowley in "The Money Pit" while she was at the height of her fame as Diane Chambers on the hit sitcom "Cheers." Her portrayal of the ambitious musician who becomes entangled in a home renovation nightmare showcased her comedic talents and her ability to play off Hanks' energy perfectly.

Long brought a sophisticated charm to Anna, creating a character who was both relatable and slightly high-maintenance—a perfect foil to Hanks' more laid-back Walter.

Now: Continued Acting Career 🎬

After leaving "Cheers" in 1987, Long continued to work steadily in television and film. Though she never quite reached the same level of fame as during her "Cheers" days, she's maintained a successful career with roles in films like "Troop Beverly Hills" and recurring parts in TV shows like "Modern Family," where she played DeDe Pritchett.

Long has shown impressive longevity in an industry known for its fickleness, continuing to take on varied roles across different genres.

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Alexander Godunov as Max Beissart

Then: Ballet Star Turned Actor 💃

Alexander Godunov played the role of Max Beissart, Anna's wealthy and pretentious ex-husband who still holds a torch for her. Before transitioning to acting, Godunov was an accomplished ballet dancer who had defected from the Soviet Union in 1979 while touring with the Bolshoi Ballet.

His performance as Max brought a touch of sophistication and European flair to the film, creating a fascinating love triangle dynamic with Walter and Anna.

Now: Tragic Early Loss 💔

Sadly, Alexander Godunov passed away in 1995 at the age of 45 due to complications from alcoholism. His career was cut short, but his performances in "The Money Pit," "Witness," and "Die Hard" remain testament to his promising talent as an actor who was successfully transitioning from dance to film.

Maureen Stapleton as Estelle

Then: Respected Character Actress 👑

Maureen Stapleton, who played the small but memorable role of Estelle, was already a highly respected actress when she joined the cast of "The Money Pit." By 1986, she had won an Academy Award for "Reds" and had been nominated three other times, in addition to her Tony Award and Emmy Award wins.

Now: Legendary Legacy 🌟

Maureen Stapleton passed away in 2006 at the age of 80, leaving behind a legacy as one of America's finest character actresses. Her career spanned over five decades, during which she proved herself equally adept at drama and comedy across stage, film, and television.

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Philip Bosco as Curly

Then: Established Character Actor 🎭

Philip Bosco played Curly, the temperamental contractor hired to fix Walter and Anna's crumbling mansion. Though his screen time was limited, Bosco made a strong impression with his portrayal of the frustratingly unreliable workman who delivers the iconic line, "Two weeks!"

By the time "The Money Pit" was released, Bosco was already an established theater actor with a growing presence in film and television.

Now: Distinguished Career 🎗️

Philip Bosco continued to work steadily in theater, film, and television until late in his life. He won a Tony Award in 1989 for his performance in "Lend Me a Tenor" and appeared in notable films like "Working Girl" and "The Savages." Bosco passed away in 2018 at the age of 88, leaving behind a distinguished body of work.

The Supporting Cast: Where Are They Now? 🔍

Joe Mantegna as Art Shirk

Then: Rising Theater Star 🌟

Joe Mantegna played the small but memorable role of Art Shirk, the dishonest real estate agent who sells Walter and Anna their doomed house. Though his screen time was brief, Mantegna made an impression with his slick portrayal of the unscrupulous salesman.

At the time, Mantegna was primarily known for his work in theater, particularly in David Mamet productions.

Now: Successful Actor and Voice Artist 🎤

Today, Joe Mantegna is known for his long-running role as David Rossi on "Criminal Minds" and as the voice of Fat Tony on "The Simpsons." His career has spanned theater, film, and television, earning him three Emmy Award nominations and a Tony Award. Mantegna has proven himself to be one of Hollywood's most versatile and enduring character actors.

Carmine Caridi as Brad Shirk

Then: Character Actor 🎬

Carmine Caridi played Brad Shirk, Art's partner in the real estate scam. Though his role was small, Caridi was part of the memorable opening sequence that sets up the entire premise of the film.

Now: Continued Career with Controversy 🔴

Caridi continued working in film and television after "The Money Pit," with roles in "Bugsy" and TV shows like "NYPD Blue." However, his career became controversial when he was expelled from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in 2004 for sharing screeners that were pirated online. He passed away in 2019 at the age of 85.

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Yakov Smirnoff as Shatov

Then: Comedy Sensation 😄

Russian-American comedian Yakov Smirnoff played the minor role of Shatov, a worker in Walter and Anna's house renovation. At the time, Smirnoff was enjoying popularity as a comedian whose act centered around his experiences as a Soviet immigrant in America, with his catchphrase "What a country!"

Now: Comedian, Artist, and Professor 🎓

Smirnoff's career evolved beyond stand-up comedy. He opened his own theater in Branson, Missouri, earned a master's degree in positive psychology, and became an adjunct professor at Missouri State University. He also developed a career as a painter and continues to perform comedy, though he has shifted his focus to relationships and happiness rather than his earlier Soviet immigrant material.

Behind the Scenes: The Creative Team 🎥

Richard Benjamin - Director

Then: Actor Turned Director 🎬

Richard Benjamin was primarily known as an actor before directing "The Money Pit." By 1986, he had already directed a few films, including "My Favorite Year," which had received critical acclaim.

Now: Respected Director and Actor 🏆

Benjamin continued his directorial career with films like "Mermaids" and "Made in America," while occasionally returning to acting. Though he hasn't directed a feature film since the early 2000s, his work on "The Money Pit" remains one of his most recognized directorial efforts.

David Giler - Screenwriter

Then: Established Screenwriter 📝

David Giler was already an established screenwriter and producer when he wrote the screenplay for "The Money Pit," having worked on films like "The Parallax View" and "Alien."

Now: Continued Success in Film 🎞️

Giler continued his successful career as a writer and producer, most notably as a producer on the "Alien" franchise. His ability to blend humor and suspense, as demonstrated in "The Money Pit," has been a hallmark of his varied career.

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The Legacy of "The Money Pit" 🏛️

Nearly four decades after its release, "The Money Pit" remains a beloved comedy that continues to resonate with homeowners and renovators alike. The film's portrayal of the nightmare of home renovation gone wrong has become a cultural touchstone, often referenced whenever someone encounters unexpected problems with their home.

The film's enduring appeal can be attributed largely to its cast, particularly the chemistry between Tom Hanks and Shelley Long. Their performances as a couple whose relationship is tested by the stress of an ever-worsening home repair situation perfectly capture the comedy and anxiety of homeownership.

Reboot Rumors and the Film's Cultural Impact 🔄

Over the years, there have been occasional rumors about a potential remake or reboot of "The Money Pit." In 2015, NBC announced plans for a TV series based on the film, though it never materialized. The concept remains ripe for updating, especially in an era where home renovation shows and real estate flipping have become popular television genres.

The film's influence can be seen in various home renovation disaster sequences in other movies and TV shows, and terms like "money pit" have entered the common lexicon to describe renovation projects that continually require more money than anticipated.

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Fun Facts About "The Money Pit" Cast and Production 🎬

1. Inspired by Classic Comedy: The film was loosely based on the 1948 Cary Grant comedy "Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House."

2. Real Locations: Though the interiors were built on soundstages, the exterior of the Money Pit house is a real mansion located in Lattingtown, Long Island. The actual house has since been completely renovated and sold for millions.

3. Hanks' Laughter: Tom Hanks' famous scene where he hysterically laughs as the bathtub crashes through the floor was actually filmed over several hours, requiring Hanks to maintain that manic energy throughout the shoot.

4. Shelley Long's Decision: Shelley Long decided to leave "Cheers" around the same time "The Money Pit" was released, hoping to focus on her film career. While the timing was coincidental, the film didn't launch her film career as successfully as she had hoped.

5. Practical Effects: Many of the home disaster scenes were created using practical effects rather than special effects, adding to the authentic feel of the destruction.

Conclusion: A Timeless Cast in a Timeless Comedy 🌟

"The Money Pit" endures as a beloved comedy classic largely due to its exceptional cast. Tom Hanks and Shelley Long created characters that were relatable, funny, and engaging, while the supporting cast added depth and color to the film's world.

As we've seen, the careers of the Money Pit cast took various trajectories after the film's release. Some, like Tom Hanks, went on to become industry legends, while others continued steady careers in their respective fields. Some, sadly, have passed away, but their performances in this classic comedy continue to bring joy to audiences discovering the film for the first time.

Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the world of "The Money Pit," the film remains a perfect example of how a talented cast can elevate a simple premise into a memorable cinematic experience that continues to resonate with audiences decades after its release.

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What's your favorite memory of "The Money Pit"? Share in the comments below!