Released in 1989, Look Who’s Talking captivated audiences with its hilarious premise: a baby talking with the voice of Bruce Willis, the tough and foul-mouthed John McClane from Die Hard. While the concept may seem strange, it certainly worked, keeping the film an enduring classic. Let’s take a trip back to the ’80s and see what the cast has been up to since Mikey’s birth.
1. John Travolta (James Ubriacco)
John Travolta played James Ubriacco, the charming cab driver who ends up driving Mollie to the hospital while she goes into labor. Travolta’s career skyrocketed after Welcome Back, Kotter and Saturday Night Fever. By the ’90s, he was starring in Pulp Fiction and Face/Off. While his career has slowed recently, he starred in Paradise City with Bruce Willis in 2022. At 70, he’s also focused on charity work following the tragic loss of his son Jett in 2009 and his wife Kelly Preston in 2020.
2. Kirstie Alley (Mollie Jensen)
Kirstie Alley’s portrayal of the single mother, Mollie Jensen, was a standout. She was already well known for Cheers, where she replaced Shelley Long and won an Emmy Award for her role. Alley’s career continued with films like It Takes Two and Drop Dead Gorgeous. Despite struggling with weight, she remained a popular public figure. Sadly, she passed away in December 2022 at the age of 71, following a battle with colon cancer.
3. George Segal (Albert)
As Albert, George Segal brought an air of smugness to the role of the married man who promises to leave his wife but never does. A seasoned actor, Segal’s career began in the ’60s, with notable films like King Rat and Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? In the ’90s, he starred on Just Shoot Me! and later gained a new generation of fans as Pops in The Goldbergs. Segal passed away in March 2021 at 87 but left behind a legacy of great performances.
4. Olympia Dukakis (Rosie)
Olympia Dukakis played Rosie, Mollie’s meddling mother. Dukakis’ breakthrough came in 1987 with Moonstruck, followed by Steel Magnolias and Mr. Holland’s Opus. Dukakis continued acting well into her later years, with her final role being in Not to Forget. She passed away in May 2021 at the age of 89, leaving behind a legacy of heartfelt performances.
5. Abe Vigoda (Grandpa Vincent Ubriacco)
Abe Vigoda’s portrayal of Grandpa Vincent, James’ father, added a quirky touch to Look Who’s Talking. Vigoda had a long career, with The Godfather being one of his most memorable roles. In the ’70s, he starred in Barney Miller and later in his own spin-off show, Fish. Despite being the subject of death hoaxes, Vigoda took it in stride. He passed away in January 2016 at 94.
6. Twink Caplan (Rona)
Twink Caplan played Rona, Mollie’s flirty best friend, and was a key player in the film’s comic moments. Caplan reprised her role in the sequel but declined the third installment. She’s most recognized for her role in Clueless and later worked as an executive producer. At 76, Caplan continues to guest star on shows like Feud (2017) and remains a fixture in the industry.
7. Bruce Willis (Baby Mikey)
Bruce Willis voiced Mikey, the baby with the adult voice of a man who gives hilarious one-liners. Willis had already made a name for himself in Moonlighting before becoming a global action star with Die Hard. He also showcased his musical talents with albums in the late ’80s and early ’90s. Sadly, Willis was diagnosed with aphasia in 2022, leading him to retire from acting. Despite his diagnosis, he made a few appearances in 2023’s direct-to-video films, wishing him well as he navigates this next phase.
8. The Four Mikeys
Though Bruce Willis voiced Mikey, there were actually four actors who portrayed him at different ages. Jason Schaller played Mikey as a newborn, followed by Jaryd Waterhouse as Mikey at four months, Jacob Haines as Mikey at one year, and finally Christopher Aydon as two-year-old Mikey. It’s crazy to think that these kids are now adults, with the film’s unique aging process still being a fun part of the movie’s charm.
Look Who’s Talking gave us a hilarious and memorable cast, many of whom have had long, diverse careers. From iconic roles to more personal milestones, these actors have shaped the entertainment world in unique ways. Whether it’s John Travolta’s smooth moves, Kirstie Alley’s comedic timing, or Bruce Willis’ unforgettable voice work as Mikey, their impact on pop culture continues.
