'Punky Brewster' Cast: Where Are They Now?

The 'Punky Brewster' cast: where are they now? Even though “Punky Brewster” went off the air more than two decades ago, it remains a cult favorite with those who grew up watching it and with new generations discovering it for the first time. The plucky lead character’s adventures were made all the more colorful and endearing by her supporting cast and after four seasons worth of nostalgia it’s time to ask: where are they now?

1. Soleil Moon Frye. Between her stint as the titular lead character on “Punky Brewster” and guest appearances on “Saved by the Bell” and “The Wonder Years”, Frye’s popularity rose to staggering proportions. Unfortunately for her, once puberty hit so did her bra size. After a much publicized breast reduction surgery, Frye carved out a successful niche as a voice-over artist in cartoons like “Tiny Toon Adventures” and “Bratz.” She also had a recurring role on “Sabrina the Teenage Witch” and dabbled in directing as well. She’s currently the co-owner of an eco-friendly children’s clothing and toy store called “The Little Seed.”
2. George Gaynes. The curmudgeonly Henry Warnimont was one of Gaynes’ best known roles. After the show ended in 1988, Gaynes had continued success in the “Police Academy” franchise as Commandant Eric Lassard and made frequent appearances on television in shows like “Chicago Hope” and “Sliders.” His last film was the 2003 Ashton Kutcher/Brittany Murphy romantic comedy “Just Married.” The 93 year-old actor lives with his wife Allyn Ann McLerie in Calabasas, California. The pair have two children.
3. Cherie Johnson. Punky Brewster’s best friend was named and modeled after the actress that portrayed her. Johnson would later take on a similar role in the sitcom “Family Matters” where she played Maxine, Laura Winslow’s best friend. Although recent additions to her filmography are predominantly low-budget horror films, the 35 year-old is still working consistently. In addition to acting, she’s hoping to try her hand at authoring children’s books.
4. Susie Garrett. Like Cherie Johnson, Garrett was essentially playing a fictionalized version of herself. She was Johnson’s grandmother on and off-screen. After the cancellation of “Punky Brewster,” the actress only had two additional credits. She co-starred with Bette Davis in “Wicked Stepmother” and made a guest appearance on the television show “227.” Garrett passed away in 2002.
5. Ami Foster. Although Foster never played a role as iconic as Margeaux Kramer once “Punky Brewster” ended, she guest-starred on “Full House,” “Quantum Leap,” and “The Wonder Years.” She also had a prominent role in the 1989 comedy “Troop Beverly Hills.” Foster gave up acting in 1995 and is now a full-time mom.
6. Casey Ellison. Ellison’s role as the geeky Allen Anderson was his first acting gig and lead to guest appearances on “Mr. Belvedere” and “ 21 Jump Street." His last film was the 2002 straight-to-video release “Head Hunter” and he now works as an electrician on film sets.