“Tf teenagers growing up in the fictional town of Point Place, Wisconsin. The show not only entertained but also launched the careers of several of its main cast members, who have since gone on to achieve various levels of success in Hollywood. This article takes a closer look at the principal cast of “That ’70s Show,” exploring their roles on the show and their subsequent careers.
1. Topher Grace (Eric Forman)
Role on That ’70s Show: Eric Forman, the geeky and sarcastic central character, was the heart of the show. Eric’s basement was the main hangout spot for his friends, and his relationship with Donna Pinciotti was a key storyline.
Career Post-Show: After leaving “That ’70s Show” a season early to pursue a film career, Topher Grace appeared in several high-profile movies. He played the villainous Venom in “Spider-Man 3” (2007) and had roles in “Valentine’s Day” (2010), “Interstellar” (2014), and “BlacKkKlansman” (2018), for which he received critical acclaim. Grace also returned to TV with notable performances in “The Hot Zone” and “Home Economics.”
2. Mila Kunis (Jackie Burkhart)
Role on That ’70s Show: Jackie Burkhart was the rich, spoiled, and often self-centered girlfriend of Michael Kelso. Despite her superficial exterior, Jackie had a heart of gold and grew significantly throughout the series.
Career Post-Show: Mila Kunis transitioned smoothly from television to film. She gained widespread recognition for her roles in “Forgetting Sarah Marshall” (2008), “Black Swan” (2010) (for which she received a Golden Globe nomination), “Friends with Benefits” (2011), and the “Bad Moms” franchise. Kunis is also known for her voice work as Meg Griffin on the animated series “Family Guy.”
3. Ashton Kutcher (Michael Kelso)
Role on That ’70s Show: Michael Kelso, the dim-witted but lovable pretty boy, provided much of the show’s comic relief. His on-again, off-again relationship with Jackie Burkhart was a central plot element.
Career Post-Show: Ashton Kutcher became a household name with roles in romantic comedies like “Dude, Where’s My Car?” (2000), “Just Married” (2003), and “No Strings Attached” (2011). He also starred in the thriller “The Butterfly Effect” (2004). On television, Kutcher replaced Charlie Sheen on “Two and a Half Men” and starred in the Netflix series “The Ranch.” He is also a successful entrepreneur and investor, co-founding venture capital firm A-Grade Investments.
4. Laura Prepon (Donna Pinciotti)
Role on That ’70s Show: Donna Pinciotti, the smart, independent, and outspoken girl next door, was Eric Forman’s long-time girlfriend. Donna’s strong-willed character made her a role model for many viewers.
Career Post-Show: Laura Prepon continued to find success on television. She starred in the lead role on “October Road” and had a recurring role on “How I Met Your Mother.” Prepon is best known for her role as Alex Vause in the critically acclaimed Netflix series “Orange Is the New Black.” She has also ventured into directing and writing, publishing a memoir and a cookbook.
5. Danny Masterson (Steven Hyde)
Role on That ’70s Show: Steven Hyde, the rebellious and conspiracy theory-loving best friend of Eric, was known for his cynical outlook on life and his iconic Afro. Hyde’s tough exterior masked a loyal and caring friend.
Career Post-Show: Danny Masterson continued to work in television, starring in the series “Men at Work” and reuniting with Ashton Kutcher on “The Ranch.” However, his career faced significant challenges due to legal issues. Masterson was charged with multiple counts of sexual assault, leading to his eventual conviction in 2021. His legal troubles have overshadowed his professional achievements and resulted in his removal from “The Ranch.”
6. Wilmer Valderrama (Fez)
Role on That ’70s Show: Fez, the foreign exchange student with a mysterious background and thick accent, was a fan-favorite character known for his innocence and unique humor. His full name and country of origin were running gags throughout the series.
Career Post-Show: Wilmer Valderrama has enjoyed a diverse career in both acting and producing. He voiced the character of Manny in the animated series “Handy Manny” and had recurring roles on “Grey’s Anatomy” and “NCIS,” where he plays Special Agent Nick Torres. Valderrama has also worked behind the scenes, producing several television projects.
7. Debra Jo Rupp (Kitty Forman)
Role on That ’70s Show: Kitty Forman, the nurturing and slightly overbearing mother of Eric, was known for her distinctive laugh and loving but sometimes meddling personality. Her relationship with her husband, Red, provided many of the show’s humorous and heartfelt moments.
Career Post-Show: Debra Jo Rupp has continued to work steadily in television and theater. She has made guest appearances on various TV shows, including “Friends,” “This Is Us,” and “Grey’s Anatomy.” Rupp has also performed in numerous stage productions, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
8. Kurtwood Smith (Red Forman)
Role on That ’70s Show: Red Forman, the gruff and strict father of Eric, was known for his no-nonsense attitude and frequent use of the phrase “dumbass” to describe anyone who annoyed him. Despite his tough exterior, Red had a deep love for his family.
Career Post-Show: Kurtwood Smith has continued to work extensively in film and television. He has appeared in shows like “24,” “Agent Carter,” and “Patriot.” Smith is also known for his voice work, lending his distinctive voice to characters in animated series like “Beware the Batman” and “Rick and Morty.”
9. Don Stark (Bob Pinciotti)
Role on That ’70s Show: Bob Pinciotti, Donna’s eccentric and often clueless father, was a source of comic relief on the show. His larger-than-life personality and unique fashion sense made him a memorable character.
Career Post-Show: Don Stark has continued to act in various television and film roles. He has appeared in shows like “Castle,” “Supernatural,” and “Shameless.” Stark’s ability to play both comedic and dramatic roles has allowed him to maintain a steady career in Hollywood.
10. Tanya Roberts (Midge Pinciotti)
Role on That ’70s Show: Midge Pinciotti, Donna’s ditzy but well-meaning mother, was known for her naivety and frequent misunderstandings. Her relationship with Bob was often a source of humor and conflict.
Career Post-Show: Tanya Roberts had a notable career before “That ’70s Show,” having been a Bond girl in “A View to a Kill” (1985) and starring in “Charlie’s Angels.” After leaving the show, she retired from acting. Sadly, Tanya Roberts passed away in January 2021.
Conclusion
The cast of “That ’70s Show” has made a lasting impact on popular culture, both through their roles on the show and their subsequent careers. From blockbuster movies to successful television series, these actors have demonstrated their versatility and talent. While some have faced personal and legal challenges, their contributions to the entertainment industry remain significant. “That ’70s Show” continues to be celebrated for its humor, relatable characters, and the strong ensemble cast that brought the fictional town of Point Place to life.
