Empire Records: Where Are They Now?

Hey guys, remember Empire Records? That iconic 90s flick about a record store crew trying to save their beloved shop from being bought out? It's a cult classic, and let's be real, we've all dreamed of working in a place that cool. Well, if you're anything like me, you've probably wondered what the cast of Empire Records is up to these days. So, grab your pizza rolls, put on your favorite flannel, and let's dive into a seriously awesome deep dive into the Empire Records cast and what they've been doing since the movie hit theaters. Buckle up, because we're about to get nostalgic! — Apple Watch Series 11: What To Expect & Features

The Main Crew and Their Post-Empire Lives

Okay, let's start with the core crew, the heroes of our story, the ones who made us all wish we could hang out at Empire Records every day. These are the faces we instantly recognize, the characters who made the film so memorable, and the actors who brought them to life.

Rory Cochrane as Lucas

First up, we've got Lucas, the philosophical, guitar-playing, and all-around cool guy played by Rory Cochrane. Remember his epic monologue about the importance of the record store? Classic! After Empire Records, Cochrane continued to land roles in some pretty big projects. He’s been in Dazed and Confused (another 90s classic, by the way!), A Scanner Darkly, and Black Mass. He even had a memorable role as a detective in the TV series CSI: Miami. Talk about a diverse career, right? Cochrane has proven himself to be a super talented and versatile actor. He continues to work steadily in both film and television, showing us all that Lucas's laid-back attitude didn't mean he'd fade away.

Liv Tyler as Corey

Then there’s Corey, the aspiring pop star who gets her heart broken but ultimately finds her place among her friends. Liv Tyler, who brought Corey to life, was already on her way to stardom before Empire Records. She went on to have a massive career, starring in Armageddon (remember that Aerosmith song?), The Lord of the Rings trilogy (she's the elven princess Arwen!), and The Incredible Hulk. Liv Tyler became a household name, and her career definitely soared after Empire Records. She's still working and gracing our screens, proving that she's a true Hollywood A-lister. — Emmanuel Orenday: The Life And Career Of A Rising Star

Renée Zellweger as Gina

Gina, the sassy and quick-witted character, was played by the one and only Renée Zellweger. Zellweger's career really took off after Empire Records. She went on to star in Jerry Maguire, Bridget Jones's Diary (seriously, who doesn't love Bridget?), and Chicago. She won an Academy Award for her role in Cold Mountain and another for Judy. Zellweger's career has been incredible, and she's proven herself to be one of the most talented actresses of her generation. She's shown us that Gina's attitude and zest for life were just a glimpse of the amazing things to come.

Ethan Embry as Mark

Ethan Embry played Mark, the lovable slacker with a heart of gold. Embry has been a consistent presence in the film and television industry since Empire Records. He's been in That Thing You Do!, Can't Hardly Wait, and Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle. More recently, he's had recurring roles in shows like Grace and Frankie and Sneaky Pete. He’s managed to maintain a solid career, showing that Mark’s chill vibe hasn’t stopped him from staying busy in Hollywood.

Debi Mazar as Jane

Debi Mazar, who played the wise-cracking Jane, has had a long and successful career in both film and television. After Empire Records, she's appeared in Goodfellas and Batman Forever. She had a recurring role in the HBO series Entourage, and has starred in TV shows like Younger. Mazar continues to work in the industry, proving that Jane's no-nonsense attitude translates well to a long and fulfilling career.

Other Memorable Characters and Their Journey

Let's not forget some of the other awesome characters who made Empire Records the movie it is! They might not have been the main focus, but they definitely left their mark on the film.

Robin Tunney as Debra

Robin Tunney played Debra, the troubled but ultimately strong character who shaves her head. Before Empire Records, she was in The Craft. Post-Empire Records, she starred in End of Days with Arnold Schwarzenegger, and The Mentalist TV series. She has built a really impressive career for herself in both film and television. — Elle Fanning: The Real Star Of Maleficent?

Johnny Whitworth as A.J.

Johnny Whitworth played A.J., the charming and supportive friend. After Empire Records, he appeared in The Rainmaker and Limitless. He continues to work steadily, and has proven to be a versatile actor in the industry.

Anthony LaPaglia as Joe

Anthony LaPaglia played Joe, the store owner who's just trying to keep his business afloat. LaPaglia had already had a successful career before Empire Records. After the movie, he starred in the TV series Without a Trace and has been a consistent presence in film and television, showing the audience that he is the best. He's a talented actor with a long list of credits to his name.

The Enduring Legacy of Empire Records

Empire Records is more than just a movie; it's a cultural touchstone for a generation. The cast of Empire Records helped create a film that speaks to the struggles, triumphs, and the sheer joy of being young and figuring things out. It reminds us of the importance of friendship, standing up for what you believe in, and, of course, the power of music. This movie has become a comfort film for many people and the legacy is still alive today. The cast has moved on, and it's cool to see how they've all built careers and are still out there, entertaining us. So, next time you're feeling nostalgic, throw on Empire Records, grab your favorite snack, and celebrate the awesome world that this movie created.