The iconic cast of The Breakfast Club reunited for the first time in 40 years during a panel at the C2E2 pop culture convention in Chicago on April 12, 2025.
Molly Ringwald, Ally Sheedy, Judd Nelson, Anthony Michael Hall, and Emilio Estevez gathered to discuss the legacy of John Hughes' 1985 coming-of-age film. The panel, moderated by Josh Horowitz, was an emotional event for the stars.
"I feel very emotional and moved to have us all together," said Ringwald, who portrayed the high school "princess" Claire Standish. Estevez, who played athlete Andrew Clark, noted that the reunion was "special" given that it took place in Chicago, where the film was shot. Estevez, who had never attended previous reunions, added, "I felt that I needed to do it for myself."
The cast reflected on their experiences working with Hughes and the bond they formed during filming. Sheedy, who portrayed the "basket case" Allison Reynolds, shared, "We all really do love each other. It was a dream, a joyful experience." Hall, who played the brainy Brian Johnson, explained how he was brought on for the role without an official script. Ringwald revealed that Hughes originally intended The Breakfast Club to be made before Sixteen Candles, but the studio chose the latter first.
The reunion also prompted discussions on what their characters might be doing after high school. Nelson joked that his rebellious character Bender would have become the principal, while Sheedy suggested Allison could have become a writer or professor. Ringwald humorously speculated that Claire might have married several times and perhaps explored new romantic avenues later in life.
Despite fans’ hopes for a sequel, the cast agreed that a continuation of the film would not happen out of respect for Hughes. “We wouldn’t do it without him,” Hall said.
The panel was a nostalgic and heartfelt reunion for the stars and their fans, marking a milestone in the film’s enduring legacy.
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