Are you ready to travel back to the peak of Rock and Roll? No, we are not talking about the 60s or the 70s. We are talking about the early-2000s, when Jack Black led a rag-tag group of kids into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (kind of). Pop culture has not been the same since the family comedySchool of Rockcame out in 2003. Black has a phenomenal track record in the film industry, but there will always be a certain magic toSchool of Rock.
The film follows Dewey Finn as he finds himself in the position to be a substitute teacher for elementary school kids. When he gets in there, his influence in the realm of music inspires the entire class into becoming one of the most iconic rock bands in film history (sort of). The entire cast had a hand in this movie’s appeal even 20 years after its release. If you are in the mood for some undeniable nostalgia, laughs, and music, let’s take a look at where the cast ofSchool of Rockis today.
Jack Black
Jack Blackhas honestly not lost his touch even after two decades since the release ofSchool of Rock. The treasure of a man has been coming in and out of the public eye throughout his career. Whether it be premieres, red carpet events, or even on social media, Black never really left our radars. The talented comedian, musician, and actor has participated inmultiple huge moviesand franchises like theKung Fu Pandafranchise,Goosebumps, andJumanji: Welcome to the Jungle. If you, like us, cannot get enough of Black, some of his upcoming projects include voicing Bowser inThe Super Mario Bros. Moviecoming this year andKung Fu Panda 4.
Related:Jack Black Says School of Rock is the ‘Highlight’ of His Career
Kevin Clark
Kevin Clarkplayed the hard-headed band drummer Freddy inSchool of Rock. His go-get-‘em attitude made his character really stand out among the class, and his dynamic with Black added extra layers to this film. Unfortunately, in May 2021, Clark was struck and killed by a car while out riding a bike (perUSA Today). Clark died at the age of 32, and the accident hit fans and the cast hard.
Miranda Cosgrove
Little Miss Summer Hathaway herself was played by child starMiranda Cosgrove. Cosgrove is no stranger to the spotlight and, since her appearance inSchool of Rock, has made a name for herself in all of our childhoods. From playing the little menace younger sister Megan inDrake and Joshto starring in Nickelodeon hit showiCarly. Cosgrove is not as into the acting industry of late as she was when she was a child. However, the adultreboot ofiCarlysplashed and brought new life to an already beloved show.
Brian Falduto
Brian Faldutoplays Billy or “Fancy Pants” inSchool of Rock. You probably recognize Falduto’s sassy attitude from this one iconic movie moment where Billy goes, “You’re tacky, and I hate you.” Well, these days, Falduto has been exploring other realms of the entertainment business beyond acting and beyond his role inSchool of Rock. Musically, Falduto is trying out his luck in making country music, more specifically, gay country music (perPeople), and we are 100% here for it.
Mike White
Mike Whiteis an actor and writer who plays Ned Schneebly, Dewey’s friend and somewhat temporary roommate. Ned is the kind of pushover friend that Dewey uses to keep himself afloat. White really knows his acting and comedic timing alongside a personality like Black and makes for a great comedic duo on-screen. White has also shared with screen with Black in 2006’sNacho Libre, took charge in the 2017 comedyBrad’s Status, and created the2021 series,TheWhite Lotus.
Sarah Silverman
If you remember, American comedianSarah Silvermanplayed Patty Di Marco, Ned’s significant other inSchool of Rock. Silverman is a popular comedian that, when placed in front of a camera, is sure to make you laugh out loud. Her outstanding career in entertainment continued after this film. From voice acting in animated franchises likeWreck-It-Ralphand the cartoon sitcomBob’s Burgersto comedy specials, Silverman is not a name to ignore.
Rivkah Reyes
Everyone give it up for our favorite bass player!Rivkah Reyesplays Katie, a quiet student who is very much interested in dipping her feet into some rock music, in the 2003 comedy. Reyes, now 30 years old, has embraced their Filipinx-Jewish and gender fluidity as an actor, musician, comedian, and writer. Reyes is the person to follow up with if you are looking for some great representation for POC and the queer community in the entertainment industry.
Related:Jack Black’s Best Non-Comedic Roles, Ranked
Joan Cusack
Joan Cusackis Principal Rosalie Mullins inSchool of Rock. Her strict style of leadership slowly unravels as Dewey’s passion for his students breaks through her rough exterior. Since the comedy’s release in 2003, Cusack has taken part in projects likeChicken Little, the DCOMIce Princess, and the drama showShameless.
Joey Gaydos Jr.
Zack-Attack is the band’s lead guitarist and is played by child actorJoey Gaydos Jr. InSchool of Rock, Dewey helps Zack Moneyham come out of his shell in order to take his rock band to the next level. Unfortunately, Gaydos was arrested in 2019 for a “string of heists” that had him facing multiple felony charges.
Maryam Hassan
If you are a fan of the film at all, you definitely rememberMaryam Hassan’s role as Tamika. Since the film’s release, Hassan has continued to develop her passion for music. These days, in her music career, Hassan goes by the name Mayhrenate. She has been releasing music recently with two great singles in 2020 and an entire EP in early-2021. If you are a fan of R&B music, ensure to check out Mayhrenate.
