During a lively panel discussion at Awesome Con in Washington, D.C., Sean Astin revealed a challenging memory from his early career. The beloved actor spoke about his experience auditioning for the iconic film, The Goonies, during a session moderated by Breanne L. Heldman. Astin recalled a moment when the project’s visionary, Steven Spielberg, exited the room during his audition. “I kept messing up,” he confessed, fearing he would never work again. Spielberg, who crafted the 1985 film’s story, left Astin feeling uncertain about his future.
Despite the unsettling audition moment, director Richard Donner intervened to offer Astin crucial guidance. Donner approached the young actor with encouragement and clarity. “He got on his knee, put his hand on my shoulder and looked me in the eye,” Astin, now 54, recalled. “As he spoke, my worries faded, and we did it. His look of satisfaction afterward was unforgettable.” This supportive interaction not only secured Astin the role of Mikey but also demonstrated Donner’s confidence in his potential.
Astin’s portrayal as Mikey saw him join a stellar cast, including Ke Huy Quan, Corey Feldman, Martha Plimpton, and others. The film will celebrate its 40th anniversary next June, a testament to its lasting impact. In another interview, Astin shared an interesting tidbit about Spielberg, who had sent him a poster with the message, “I’m Still a Goonie, How ‘Bout You?” This endearing gesture highlights the bond that grew from their initial encounter.
Astin also addressed the long-awaited sequel to The Goonies. Although ardently desired by Spielberg, progress has stalled due to a lack of readiness. “He’s the sole reason it hasn’t been made,” Astin noted, underscoring Spielberg’s dedication to ensuring the movie meets high expectations. The sequel gained momentum as Warner Bros. confirmed its development, much to the excitement of enthusiastic fans.
Corey Feldman added his thoughts on the sequel’s prospect. He revealed that while Spielberg and Chris Columbus, the original scriptwriter, are committed to the project, the involvement of the original cast remains uncertain. “Whether we’re doing it or not is a different story,” Feldman remarked. Meanwhile, Kerri Green emphasized the unique camaraderie shared among the cast, describing it as a “big, dysfunctional but loving family.”
The timeless appeal of The Goonies extends beyond cast chemistry, Feldman noted. He believes the film’s “moral of the story” resonates with audiences, attributing its magic to themes of friendship and community support. These core values continue to influence fans across generations, aligning with Spielberg’s vision and Astin’s enduring connection to the film. As anticipation for the sequel builds, audiences remain eager to see how the legacy of Sean Astin’s journey with The Goonies unfolds, spotlighting the profound impact of mentorship and collaboration on his successful career.
