The cast of “The Goonies” made a nostalgic appearance at Awesome Con in Washington, D.C., on April 5, 2023, as they prepare to celebrate the film’s 40th anniversary in June. Stars Sean Astin, Corey Feldman, Martha Plimpton, Kerri Green, Robert Davi, and Joe Pantoliano gathered for a lively panel discussion moderated by PEOPLE’s Breanne L. Heldman.
During the “Hey You Guys! The Goonies Reunion” panel, Astin addressed a long-standing myth that the child actors were not allowed to see One-Eyed Willy’s pirate ship until the cameras were rolling to capture their genuine reactions. Astin expressed his surprise at the notion and highlighted that they were already adept at portraying real emotions. “We did real reactions all the time,” he noted, reflecting on the professionalism and skill of the young cast.
Plimpton confirmed that she hadn’t seen the ship prior to filming, insisting her performance was authentic. Feldman shared an intriguing detail about filming: that the water used for the scene from the ship to the waterslide was heated, which he described as “badass.”
Beyond the panel, the cast has been reuniting frequently, including an appearance at Ke Huy Quan’s handprint ceremony in Los Angeles. During the event, they expressed ongoing interest in a possible sequel to “The Goonies.” Feldman emphasized the excitement surrounding Steven Spielberg’s renewed interest in the project, fostering hopes for an adventure that would resonate with fans. Plimpton optimistically stated that “Goonies 2” is likely to happen, regardless of their involvement.
This gathering not only celebrates the film’s legacy but also underscores the enduring camaraderie among the cast members and their commitment to potentially bringing “The Goonies” back to the big screen. The hope for a sequel is palpable, and fans remain excited about the prospect of more adventures from this beloved group.