A Look Back at the ‘The Little Rascals’ Cast – Where Are They Now?
The 1955 Little Rascals show introduced misfit kids. MGM’s 1922-1938 Our Gang shorts produced them. Hal Roach’s 79 shorts became the Little Rascals TV series, still airing. Characters’ personalities and appearances gave them nicknames. Alfalfa’s nose freckles and standing hair? Spanky, Buckwheat, Stymie, and Petey, the dog, were Gang favorites. Relive Little Rascals. Still more. The Little Rascals (1994) by Universal continued their legacy. From Our Gang shorts. Penelope Spheeris’s film’s celebrity cameos—led by the Olsen twins, Whoopi Goldberg, Mel Brooks, Reba McEntire, Daryl Hannah, and Raven-Symoné—stole the show. The Little Rascals TV and film actors revealed their personal and professional lives. The Little Rascals. Your favorite? Share this cast recap!
Billie ‘Buckwheat’ Thomas
On March 12, 1931, in Los Angeles, William Thomas Jr. was born. Thomas made his debut in the supporting cast of 1934’s Our Gang Shorts. Matthew “Stymie” Beard’s younger sister, Carlena, played the original female version of the “Buckwheat” character. However, Buckwheat gradually changed into a young boy. Thomas, speech impediment and all, took on the role of Buckwheat in the play’s early stages, appearing as the character dressed as a stereotypical African-American “pickaninny.”
Billie ‘Buckwheat’ Thomas
His pigtails were slicked back and he was dressed in an oversized sweater and boots that were not meant for him. Future generations might find that depiction deeply offensive.
What Happened After
At the time of its opening in 1992, Bugaboo Creek Steakhouse was unique among its competitors for one specific reason – its animatronics. These robotic creatures welcomed guests and provided entertainment with their lifelike movements and sounds. The restaurant’s Canadian theme was further enhanced by the inclusion of head mounts featuring bulls, buffaloes, or moose. This innovative approach to dining added an extra layer of enjoyment for visitors, making Bugaboo Creek Steakhouse a standout destination for those seeking a truly immersive experience.
What Happened After
With their realistic movements and playful interactions, these creations brought a touch of magic to the dining experience and left a lasting impression on all who encountered them. For many, Bugaboo Creek Steakhouse will always be synonymous with animatronics and the unique atmosphere they helped create.
George ‘Spanky’ McFarland
The birth of George Robert Phillips McFarland took place in Dallas on October 2nd, 1928. McFarland modeled children’s clothing for a Dallas department store before joining Our Gang. In addition to his famed billboard appearances in Dallas, he also appeared in Wonder Bread print ads. An aunt of McFarland’s named Dottie answered an ad from Hal Roach Studios looking for pictures of “cute kids.” This man’s new role is Spanky. His mom supposedly gave him the moniker to warn him about acting up in Roach’s workplace.
George ‘Spanky’ McFarland
When he reached for something, his mother would say, “Spanky, mustn’t touch.” His later years were marked by the nickname “Spank.” Spanky was portrayed as the show’s president of the “He-Man Women Hater’s Club.”
What Happened After
After McFarland’s time on The Little Rascals, he faced challenges in breaking free from the Spanky stereotype that had defined his career. Despite this, he pursued a successful path outside of show business, even joining the Air Force at the young age of 24. He continued to work in different industries, such as a popsicle factory and a burger stand, before eventually becoming a public speaker. In 1993, he made his final television appearance, introducing an episode of Cheers titled “Woody Gets An Election.”
What Happened After
A heart attack took his life in June of that year. He was 64. In January 1994, after his death, he was given a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Matthew ‘Stymie’ Beard
Los Angeles-born Matthew Beard Jr. is most well-known for playing the character “Stymie” in the popular TV series Our Gang. Despite being a child, he quickly gained recognition and even signed a five-year contract to continue his role. Our Gang director Robert McGowan gave him the nickname “Stymie” due to his tendency to wander around the studio and cause confusion, which often “stymied” the adults. He was even given a large derby hat by Stan Laurel, adding to his iconic look.
Matthew ‘Stymie’ Beard
However, Beard eventually left acting behind to focus on his education, showing that he not only had talent in front of the camera but also a strong work ethic.
What Happened After
Matthew “Stymie” Beard was a beloved child star in the 1930s, best known for his role as Stymie in the Our Gang comedy series. He quickly rose to fame with his charming personality and trademark derby hat. However, behind the scenes, Beard struggled with personal demons and eventually developed a heroin addiction. After years of battling his addiction, Beard sought help and went to rehab. He was able to turn his life around and even made a comeback in the entertainment industry.
What Happened After
He appeared on popular shows such as Sanford and Son, The Jeffersons, and Good Times under the name “Monty,” wearing his signature bowler hat. Despite his success, Beard continued to face challenges and turned to giving drug awareness lectures as a way to stay sober.
Billy ‘Froggy’ Laughlin
Born in San Gabriel, California on July 5, 1932, William Robert Laughlin would go on to become a household name. At the young age of 8, he joined the popular children’s series Our Gang and quickly became known for his peculiar voice that resembled a frog’s croak. This unique quality earned him the nickname “Froggy” by his fellow castmates. Laughlin continued to act after Our Gang ended production in 1944, appearing in films such as Johnny Doesn’t Live Here Any More (1944). However, he eventually took a break from the entertainment industry to experience a normal teenage life.
Billy ‘Froggy’ Laughlin
Despite stepping away from the spotlight, Laughlin’s contribution to the early years of television will always be remembered. So, his name William Robert Laughlin will forever be synonymous with the beloved character “Froggy”
What Happened After
After the tragic incident on August 31, 1948, Laughlin’s parents were left devastated. They had given their son a scooter only two weeks before, never expecting it would lead to such a heartbreaking outcome. Laughlin was just 16 years old at the time of his passing, making him the youngest member of the Our Gang cast to leave this world. However, despite his young age, Laughlin had already made a significant impact on the entertainment industry through his role in Our Gang.
What Happened After
He will always be remembered for his infectious laughter and charming personality. Additionally, the accident that took Laughlin’s life highlights the need for road safety measures and responsible driving to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.
Eugene ‘Porky’ Lee
Eugene Lee, also known as “Porky”, was born on October 25, 1933, in Fort Worth, Texas. His family later moved to Culver City, California where he would begin his acting career at just 18 months old. He was compared to Spanky McFarland of Our Gang fame and given the nickname “Porky” by the production company. His growth spurt at the age of five allowed him to take over McFarland’s role, while Mickey Gubitosi (later known as Robert Blake) took over Lee’s previous role.
Eugene ‘Porky’ Lee
Despite his young age, Lee had already made a name for himself in Hollywood and had become a beloved child star. As he continued to grow and develop as an actor, Lee’s talent and charm only grew stronger, solidifying his place in Hollywood history.
What Happened After
As a former member of the corporate world, Lee’s decision to leave and become an educator in Colorado was a significant change. Despite this transition, he continued to pursue his passion for film and acting through teaching at Broomfield High School’s alternative program. Lee even went as far as changing his name to Gordon Lee, in honor of his favorite Our Gang director. This was a nod to his roots and a way of evading the Hollywood industry.
What Happened After
Unfortunately, Lee’s life was cut short at the age of 71 due to lung and brain cancer. However, his legacy lives on through the impact he made as both a teacher and an actor.
Mickey ‘Mickey’ Gubitosi
Michael James Gubitosi, better known by his stage name Robert Blake, was born in Nutley, New Jersey on September 18, 1933. He was the youngest of four siblings and grew up in a family that was deeply involved in show business. His parents had a song-and-dance act called “The Three Little Hillbillies,” which also featured his three older siblings. In 1938, the family moved to Los Angeles in hopes of pursuing greater opportunities in Hollywood.
Mickey ‘Mickey’ Gubitosi
This move proved to be fruitful for young Blake as he began appearing as a movie extra at just five years old. However, it wasn’t until 1942 that he landed his breakthrough role as Mickey in the popular series “The Little Rascals.”
What Happened After
As an Italian-American from New Jersey, Robert Blake had a unique background in the entertainment industry. Despite his heritage, he often found himself playing roles as Native American or Latino characters throughout his career. After taking a hiatus to serve in the Army, Blake returned to the screen as an undercover police officer in one of his most famous roles, Baretta. However, Blake’s personal life took a tragic turn when he lost his wife and was subsequently embroiled in legal troubles for over a decade.
What Happened After
Despite these challenges, Blake remained determined to continue working in the industry he loved. To share his experiences and set the record straight, Blake released his memoir, “Tales of a Rascal: What I Did for Love”
Mickey ‘Mickey/Algebra’ Daniels
Mickey Daniels, a talented child actor, was a prominent member of the iconic Our Gang shorts in the early 1930s. With over 70 appearances on Hal Roach’s original films, he was one of the most frequently seen Rascals. Despite starting with humble earnings of $37 per week, Daniels eventually rose through the ranks and earned an impressive $175 per week at his peak. In today’s currency, that amounts to more than $2,500.
Mickey Mickey
His success allowed him to live a lavish lifestyle, which was not common among child stars during that era. According to IMDB, Daniels’ journey on Our Gang was nothing short of remarkable.
What Happened After
After the conclusion of his show, Daniels’ career unfortunately did not reach new heights. It is rumored that he tied the knot, went through a divorce, and welcomed one daughter before his passing in 1970. At the time, he was working as a taxi driver and tragically passed away alone in a hotel room. Despite this setback, the legacy of his show and his talent continues to live on. The impact he made in the entertainment industry will never be forgotten, and his fans continue to cherish his memory through reruns and tributes.
What Happened After
May Daniels rest in peace knowing that he left a lasting impression on those who knew him and those who were touched by his work.
Petey the Dog
Pal, the Wonder Dog, an American Pit Bull Terrier, served as the first Petey. Pal debuted in the Buster Brown series in the 1920s as Tige. He developed the circled eye around this time. The circle was drawn by Maksymilian Faktorowicz, who established Max Factor & Company in Los Angeles. Hal Roach simply left it on when he was enlisted to appear in the Our Gang comedies later that year, producing one of the most recognizable dogs in movie history.
Petey The Dog
Pal tragically died from poisoning in 1930. The title of Petey was passed down to his offspring. His eye circle suddenly shifted to the left.
What Happened After
After Lucenay, the dog’s owner was let go from Our Gang, he decided to settle down in Atlantic City and enjoy his retirement. He died on Jan. 28, 1946. When he passed away, he was the same age as Billy “Froggy” Laughlin, who was 16. Petey is an American Bulldog in the version of The Little Rascals that was remade as a feature film in 1994. Lucenay’s life after leaving Our Gang was marked by a peaceful retirement in Atlantic City. He passed away on Jan. 28, 1946, at the same age as his former co-star Billy “Froggy” Laughlin, who was only 16 at the time.
What Happened After
Interestingly, Petey, the iconic American Bulldog from The Little Rascals was also featured in a 1994 feature film remake of the classic series. Lucenay’s legacy lives on through his beloved canine companion and his contributions to early cinema history.
Mary Ann Jackson
Jackson, also known as Mary Ann Jackson, was a beloved member of the Our Gang cast during the 1930s. She often played the role of Wheezer’s older sister and quickly became a fan favorite. With her signature bob haircut and tomboyish demeanor, she brought a unique energy to the series. Her time on Our Gang began in 1928, the last year of the silent film era. Despite her young age of only eight years old, Jackson’s talent and charisma shone through on screen.
Mary Ann Jackson
Her character added depth and humor to the series, making her a memorable part of the beloved children’s comedy franchise. Even after leaving Our Gang in 1931, Jackson continued to act in various films throughout her career.
What Happened After
After retiring from acting, Janet Jackson chose to lead a more low-key life, working in department stores and enjoying the occasional party with her sister. Unfortunately, she passed away in 2003 due to a heart attack. However, Jackson always held dear memories of her childhood as a playful and cunning child. Even though she didn’t pursue her acting career, she found joy and contentment in other aspects of her life.
What Happened After
Her legacy continues to live on in the hearts of her fans, who remember her as the talented and spirited individual she was. So let us always remember Janet Jackson not just for her acting abilities, but also for the joy and laughter she brought into our lives.
Darla Hood
Born on November 8, 1931, in Leedey, Oklahoma, Darla Hood was destined for fame. From a young age, she showed a natural talent for dancing and singing, thanks to her mother’s support and guidance. At just three years old, Darla and her mother traveled to New York in pursuit of artistic success. Little did they know, this trip would lead to Darla’s big break.
Darla Hood
Through the help of Hal Roach Studios casting director Joe Rivkin, Darla was cast as “Darla” in the popular Our Gang shorts. Her charm and talent shone through onscreen, making her a beloved character among viewers.
What Happened After
Hood continued her education in high school after outgrowing Our Gang. There, she founded the Enchanters, a vocal ensemble. Her final film role, The Bat, was given to her by Rivkin, who discovered her when she was a young girl. She acted as a secretary alongside Vincent Price and Agnes Moorehead in her first and final role as an adult. After all those years, The Little Rascals never abandoned her.
What Happened After
She underwent an appendectomy while planning the 1980 Little Rascals reunion for the Los Angeles chapter of the Sons of the Desert. She didn’t make it and passed away suddenly on June 13, 1979, at the age of 47, from heart failure.
Carl ‘Alfalfa’ Switzer
Paris, Illinois, is not only known for its rich history and charming small-town feel, but it’s also the birthplace of Carl Dean Switzer. Along with his brother Harold, the two were local musical celebrities who captivated audiences with their talent. In 1934, the Switzers visited family in California and had the opportunity to tour Hal Roach Studios, where the beloved television series “The Little Rascals” was filmed.
Carl ‘Alfalfa’ Switzer
During their tour, Harold and Carl even had the chance to perform at the iconic Our Gang cafe. To their surprise, Hal Roach himself was in attendance and was immediately impressed by their talent.
What Happened After
Typecasting is a common struggle for actors who become known for a specific role. This was the case for Carl ‘Alfalfa’ Switzer, who faced difficulties finding work after leaving the popular series in 1940. Despite appearing in adult roles and B movies, he struggled to break out of his child star image. Switzer eventually left the entertainment industry and pursued other interests such as breeding dogs and working as a hunting guide.
What Happened After
However, his life was tragically cut short in 1959 when he was fatally shot during an argument over $50 and a hunting dog. Despite the challenges he faced in Hollywood, Switzer’s legacy lives on through his iconic portrayal of Alfalfa and the impact he made in the entertainment industry.
Dorothy DeBorba
Dorothy DeBorba was a young actress who joined the cast of the popular comedy series, Our Gang, in the 1930s. She quickly became known for her playful and mischievous personality, bringing laughter to audiences with her humorous mimicry of other characters’ lines. Aside from her acting skills, Dorothy was also known for her elaborate hairstyles and bows, which became a trademark of her character. She even earned the nickname “Echo” due to her ability to mimic other characters comically.
Dorothy DeBorba
Dorothy’s time on Our Gang may have been short-lived, but her impact on the show and its viewers was significant. Her legacy lives on, as she remains a beloved and memorable character in the history of television.
What Happened After
After she departed from the series in 1933, DeBorba went on to complete her high school education and began working as a clerk. She continued to act in minor roles until she retired from the entertainment industry. Later in life, she was blessed with two children before ultimately passing away in 2010 due to complications from emphysema. Despite leaving the spotlight, DeBorba’s contribution to the Our Gang series and her impact on early Hollywood will always be remembered.
What Happened After
Her talent and charm captured the hearts of audiences worldwide and paved the way for young actors in the industry. While she may no longer be with us, DeBorba’s legacy lives on through her iconic roles and lasting influence on film history.
Brandon ‘Bug’ Hall as Alfalfa
Brandon Hall’s parents gave him the nickname “Bug” when he was a baby, and he was born in Fort Worth, Texas, on February 4, 1985. He became famous for his role as Alfalfa in The Little Rascals (1994). Hall was honored with a Young Artist Award for “Best Performance by a Youth Ensemble in a Motion Picture” The praise did not end after The Little Rascals. Award for “Best Performance by a Young Actor in a Made For TV Movie” for his role as Eddie Munster in the 1996 Fox telefilm The Munsters’ Scary Little Christmas, Hall received a nomination for a YoungStar Award.
Brandon ‘Bug’ Hall As Alfalfa
Hall’s filmography includes several classics from the Disney canon, such as Honey, We Shrunk Ourselves, and Get A Clue. Together with his wife Jill de Groff, he welcomed a daughter, Josephina Joy, in 2017.
Brittany Ashton Holmes as Darla
Brittany Ashton Holmes, born on February 27, 1989, is an American actress. She made her debut in Hollywood as Darla, played by Travis Tedford. This role opened doors for her to appear in other films like Red Shoe Diaries and guest star on the show Ellen. Holmes continued to build her career with appearances in various TV movies such as Humanoids from the Deep (1996). In 2014, she made a guest appearance on the TV show We Hate Paul Revere. Despite her early success, Holmes stepped away from acting to focus on her education.
Brittany Ashton Holmes As Darla
However, fans of the young actress still hold fond memories of her performances on screen. With her natural talent and charm, it’s no surprise that Holmes continues to be a beloved figure in the world of entertainment.
Ross Bagley as Buckwheat
Ross Bagley was born on December 5, 1988, in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin. He began his acting career at a young age, and his breakthrough role came in the 1994 film adaptation of The Little Rascals where he played the lovable character Buckwheat. Bagley’s ability to say “Ohtay!” with such charm and authenticity surely contributed to his success in landing the role. But it wasn’t just The Little Rascals that put Bagley on the map.
Ross Bagley As Buckwheat
From 1994 to 1996, he starred as Will Smith’s cousin Nicholas “Nicky” Banks on the hit show The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. His natural talent and charisma made him a fan favorite among viewers.
Kevin Jamal Woods as Stymie
In addition to his portrayal of Stymie in The Little Rascals, Kevin Jamal Woods also made a final TV appearance on The Brainiacs in 2000. Before these roles, he lent his voice to one of Fly and Rex’s puppies in the Oscar-nominated film Babe (1995) and had a recurring role as Frank on the popular television show Blossom. Despite his short acting career, Woods left a lasting impression on audiences with his memorable performances.
Kevin Jamal Woods As Stymie
His talent and versatility as an actor are evident in the range of characters he brought to life on screen. Woods’ contributions to the entertainment industry will continue to be celebrated and remembered by fans for years to come. So even though his time in the spotlight was brief, Woods’ impact was significant.
Travis Tedford as Spanky
Travis William Tedford was a talented child actor who rose to fame in the late 1990s. Born in Rockwall, Texas, he quickly made a name for himself with his charming personality and acting skills.
Before becoming an actor, Tedford got his first taste of the limelight as Welch’s first child spokesperson at just 5 years old. However, his big break came when he landed the role of Spanky in the hit movie “The Little Rascals.” Many fans still recognize him as the lovable character from their childhood.
Travis Tedford As Spanky
After his successful run as Spanky, Tedford went on to star in other projects such as “Slappy and the Stinkers” and “The Pretender.” He even lent his voice to the beloved Pixar film “A Bug’s Life.”
Zachary Mabry as Porky
On January 19, 1990, in Plano, Texas, Zachary Mabry entered the world. Porky, Spanky’s younger brother, was played by him when he was just 4 years old. His debut performance was also his last. Instead of pursuing a career in acting, he went the traditional route and got his degree from the University of Oklahoma. But he has over 4,000 Twitter followers, so he must be doing something right.
Zachary Mabry As Porky
Self-described “prolific tweeter” and independent CPA. In addition, he presents a weekly show titled Roman Circus Podcast.
Blake McIver Ewing as Waldo
Blake McIver Ewing, known for his role as Waldo in the 1994 film “The Little Rascals”, has continued to have a successful career in the entertainment industry. After his breakout performance as Waldo, he went on to voice Eugene in the popular animated show “Hey Arnold!” and had a recurring role on “Full House” as Derek, Michelle’s friend. In addition to acting, McIver Ewing is also a talented singer, songwriter, and pianist.
Blake McIver Ewing As Waldo
He released his debut album “The Time Manipulator” in 2014 and has been pursuing music ever since. Recently, he can also be seen on Bravo’s show “The People’s Couch” as a co-host. With his diverse talents and continued presence in the entertainment industry, McIver Ewing is undoubtedly a rising star to keep an eye on.
Olsen Twins as Unnamed Twins
The Olsen twins, Mary-Kate and Ashley, were famous child stars during the late 1980s and early 1990s. They gained popularity through their television show, Full House. It’s no surprise that they would make a brief appearance in The Little Rascals, a film that featured numerous cameos from popular figures at the time. In the film, the Olsen twins make a cameo appearance but are never given names and only have a few lines of dialogue. This was typical for cameos in the film industry and added to the novelty of seeing these famous faces on screen.
Olsen Twins As Unnamed Twins
The Olsens spent their entire lives under constant media scrutiny. They’ve each worked on several different projects as adults, most of which have been in the luxury fashion sector.
Jordan Warkol as Froggy
One of the most beloved aspects of the 1994 film Rascals was the character of Little Froggy. With his big, round glasses and deep voice, he quickly became a fan favorite. However, not many people know that the real name of Froggy is Jordan Warhol. After his breakout role in Rascals, Warkol continued to pursue acting opportunities throughout the 1990s. He appeared in popular shows like 7th Heaven, Judging Amy, and The X-Files.
Jordan Warkol As Froggy
But as the new millennium approached, Warkol decided to retire from acting. Despite stepping away from the limelight, he has maintained a steady presence on Twitter over the years.
E.G. Daily as Froggy (Voice)
Hold on a second! Surely the boy doesn’t talk like that, right? The Internet Movie Database, however, claims that Elizabeth Daily (also known as “E.G.” in the credits) voiced Froggy. It’s easy to see why after perusing her stellar resume. Since the late ’70s, Daily has been active in the entertainment industry, primarily in the role of a voice actress. Her resume boasts more than 200 acting credits.
E.G. Daily As Froggy (Voice)
Her most notable roles include those of Babe in the 1998 film Babe: Pig in the City and Buttercup in the popular cartoon series The Powerpuff Girls. Both of these characters have become iconic and beloved by audiences, showcasing her versatility as an actress.