**Step into a time machine and journey back to 1964, a pivotal year for music and the birth of a fictional band that captured the hearts of millions. "That Thing You Do!", the beloved 1996 musical comedy, brought to life the meteoric rise and inevitable fall of The Wonders, a Pennsylvania garage band propelled to stardom by a single, catchy tune. More than just a nostalgic trip, the film resonated deeply with audiences, offering a charming, witty, and surprisingly poignant look at the ephemeral nature of rock and roll fame. Its enduring appeal lies not only in its catchy soundtrack but also in the unforgettable performances of its ensemble, the talented **That Thing You Do! cast**.** From the charismatic frontman to the quiet bassist, and the captivating women who orbited their world, the actors brought a vibrant authenticity to their roles. Directed by the legendary Tom Hanks, the movie launched or further cemented the careers of many, leaving fans wondering: what have the stars of this iconic film been up to since its premiere? Join us as we dive deep into the lives and careers of the talented individuals who made "That Thing You Do!" a timeless classic, exploring their journeys since their days as "one-hit wonders" on the big screen. --- **Table of Contents** * [The Enduring Charm of That Thing You Do!](#the-enduring-charm-of-that-thing-you-do) * [The Maestro Behind the Magic: Tom Hanks](#the-maestro-behind-the-magic-tom-hanks) * [The Wonders: The Heartbeat of the Film](#the-wonders-the-heartbeat-of-the-film) * [Tom Everett Scott: The Charismatic Frontman](#tom-everett-scott-the-charismatic-frontman) * [Johnathon Schaech: The Brooding Songwriter](#johnathon-schaech-the-brooding-songwriter) * [Steve Zahn: The Zany Guitarist](#steve-zahn-the-zany-guitarist) * [Ethan Embry: The Quiet Bassist](#ethan-embry-the-quiet-bassist) * [The Leading Ladies: Beyond The Wonders](#the-leading-ladies-beyond-the-wonders) * [Liv Tyler: The Muse and More](#liv-tyler-the-muse-and-more) * [Charlize Theron: A Glimpse of Stardom](#charlize-theron-a-glimpse-of-stardom) * [Supporting Stars and Unforgettable Cameos](#supporting-stars-and-unforgettable-cameos) * [The Legacy of That Thing You Do! Cast](#the-legacy-of-that-thing-you-do-cast) * [Where Are They Now? Catching Up with the Stars](#where-are-they-now-catching-up-with-the-stars) * [Why That Thing You Do! Still Resonates](#why-that-thing-you-do-still-resonates) ---
The Enduring Charm of That Thing You Do!
Released on October 4, 1996, "That Thing You Do!" quickly established itself as a beloved entry in the musical comedy genre. The film tells a very nice story that revolves around the world of ephemeral rock and roll stars. In 1964, a group of youngsters from Pennsylvania suddenly emerge from obscurity when their garage band, The Wonders, achieve fame and success on the back of a single song, "That Thing You Do." Directed by Tom Hanks, the film captures the excitement, the pressures, and the ultimate fleeting nature of overnight stardom. It's almost been 20 years, and we're still lovin' "That Thing You Do!" lots and lots, a testament to its timeless appeal and the memorable performances delivered by the entire **That Thing You Do! cast**. The film's authenticity, from its period-perfect costumes and sets to its incredibly catchy original songs, makes it a rewatchable classic that continues to find new audiences.
The Maestro Behind the Magic: Tom Hanks
While primarily known for his legendary acting career, Tom Hanks took on the dual role of director and a key supporting character, Mr. White, the wily band manager, in "That Thing You Do!". His vision brought the story of The Wonders to life with a blend of humor, heart, and genuine affection for the era. Hanks' involvement was instrumental in shaping the film's tone and ensuring its authenticity. He meticulously crafted the narrative, allowing the audience to truly connect with the struggles and triumphs of the band. His leadership behind the scenes was as impactful as his on-screen presence, proving his versatility in the entertainment industry.
Tom Hanks: Personal Data & Biodata
**Full Name**
Thomas Jeffrey Hanks
**Born**
July 9, 1956
**Birthplace**
Concord, California, USA
**Occupation**
Actor, Director, Producer, Writer
**Notable Works**
Forrest Gump, Saving Private Ryan, Cast Away, Toy Story (voice), Apollo 13, Philadelphia
**Role in TTYD**
Director, Mr. White
The Wonders: The Heartbeat of the Film
The core of "That Thing You Do!" lies with the band itself: The Wonders. The dynamic between the four main actors, Tom Everett Scott, Johnathon Schaech, Steve Zahn, and Ethan Embry, was palpable, making their on-screen chemistry a major factor in the film's success. ET virtually reunited ‘The Wonders’ — Tom Everett Scott, Johnathon Schaech, Steve Zahn and Ethan Embry — for the 1996 hit film’s big milestone, highlighting the lasting bond and impact of their roles. Learn more about the full cast of "That Thing You Do!" and the incredible talent that brought these characters to life.
Tom Everett Scott: The Charismatic Frontman
Tom Everett Scott played Guy Patterson, the drummer who inadvertently becomes the band's driving force and main songwriter. His easy charisma, dreamy smile, and undersurface intelligence should shoot him up the acting ranks, as noted by Duane Byrge of The Hollywood Reporter. Scott perfectly embodied the accidental star, navigating fame with a blend of awe and quiet determination. His performance as "Guy 'Shades' Patterson" is often cited as a breakout role, showcasing his ability to lead a film with charm and understated depth.
Tom Everett Scott: Personal Data & Biodata
**Full Name**
Thomas Everett Scott
**Born**
September 7, 1970
**Birthplace**
East Bridgewater, Massachusetts, USA
**Occupation**
Actor
**Notable Works**
An American Werewolf in Paris, Dead Man on Campus, Boiler Room, Southland, 13 Reasons Why
**Role in TTYD**
Guy Patterson (Guy 'Shades' Patterson)
Johnathon Schaech: The Brooding Songwriter
Johnathon Schaech portrayed Jimmy Mattingly, the band's original songwriter and lead singer, whose artistic integrity clashes with the commercial demands of stardom. Schaech brought a compelling intensity to Jimmy, showcasing the frustrations and aspirations of a true artist. His character's journey from hopeful musician to disillusioned star provided a crucial emotional anchor for the film, highlighting the often-harsh realities behind the glamour of the music industry.
Johnathon Schaech: Personal Data & Biodata
**Full Name**
Johnathon Schaech
**Born**
September 10, 1969
**Birthplace**
Edgewood, Maryland, USA
**Occupation**
Actor, Writer
**Notable Works**
The Doom Generation, Hush, DC's Legends of Tomorrow, Ray Donovan
**Role in TTYD**
Jimmy Mattingly (James Mattingly II)
Steve Zahn: The Zany Guitarist
Steve Zahn played Lenny Haise, the band's quirky and often hilarious guitarist. Zahn's comedic timing and infectious energy made Lenny a fan favorite, providing much of the film's lightheartedness. His performance perfectly captured the spirit of a young musician swept up in the whirlwind of fame, always ready with a witty remark or a memorable reaction. Zahn's career has seen him take on a diverse range of roles, but his portrayal of Lenny remains one of his most beloved.
Steve Zahn: Personal Data & Biodata
**Full Name**
Steven James Zahn
**Born**
November 13, 1967
**Birthplace**
Marshall, Minnesota, USA
**Occupation**
Actor
**Notable Works**
Out of Sight, Daddy Day Care, Sahara, Treme, The White Lotus
**Role in TTYD**
Lenny Haise
Ethan Embry: The Quiet Bassist
Ethan Embry rounded out The Wonders as T.B. Player, the quiet and unassuming bassist. While his character had fewer lines, Embry's presence was integral to the band's dynamic, often conveying emotion through subtle expressions. He was the grounding force, the steady rhythm section, both literally and figuratively. Embry's career has shown remarkable longevity, with roles across various genres, a testament to his consistent talent.
Ethan Embry: Personal Data & Biodata
**Full Name**
Ethan Philan Embry
**Born**
June 13, 1978
**Birthplace**
Huntington Beach, California, USA
**Occupation**
Actor
**Notable Works**
Empire Records, Can't Hardly Wait, Brotherhood, Grace and Frankie
**Role in TTYD**
T.B. Player (The Bass Player)
The Leading Ladies: Beyond The Wonders
Beyond the band members, the **That Thing You Do! cast** also featured two prominent female roles that significantly impacted the story and showcased remarkable talent. Liv Tyler and Charlize Theron, both of whom have gone on to achieve immense success in Hollywood, contributed memorable performances that added depth and charm to the film. Liv Tyler and more share their memories and updates, reflecting on their time on set. From Liv Tyler to Tom Hanks, see how their careers evolved and what they are doing today.
Liv Tyler: The Muse and More
Liv Tyler played Faye Dolan, Jimmy's girlfriend and the band's most loyal supporter, who eventually develops a connection with Guy. Tyler's portrayal of Faye was empathetic and grounded, making her the emotional heart of the film. She represented the perspective of those swept up in the band's journey, but not directly in the spotlight. Her natural beauty and earnest performance made Faye a beloved character, solidifying Tyler's status as a rising star.
Liv Tyler: Personal Data & Biodata
**Full Name**
Liv Rundgren Tyler
**Born**
July 1, 1977
**Birthplace**
New York City, New York, USA
**Occupation**
Actress, Model
**Notable Works**
Armageddon, The Lord of the Rings trilogy, The Strangers, The Leftovers
**Role in TTYD**
Faye Dolan
Charlize Theron: A Glimpse of Stardom
Charlize Theron had a smaller, but memorable, role as Tina Powers, Guy Patterson's initial girlfriend. Though her screen time was limited, Theron's presence was undeniable, hinting at the major star she would soon become. Her brief appearance in "That Thing You Do!" serves as a fascinating early credit in what would evolve into an Academy Award-winning career, showcasing her burgeoning talent even in a supporting capacity.
Charlize Theron: Personal Data & Biodata
**Full Name**
Charlize Theron
**Born**
August 7, 1975
**Birthplace**
Benoni, South Africa
**Occupation**
Actress, Producer
**Notable Works**
Monster, Mad Max: Fury Road, Atomic Blonde, North Country, Bombshell
**Role in TTYD**
Tina Powers
Supporting Stars and Unforgettable Cameos
The depth of the **That Thing You Do! cast** extends far beyond the main characters, featuring a plethora of talented actors and actresses who contributed to the film's rich tapestry. Find out who starred in and worked behind the scenes of the 1996 musical comedy film "That Thing You Do!". The film's success was also due to the meticulous work of its crew. See the full cast and crew list, including producers, editors, composers, and more, which speaks volumes about the collective effort. From bit parts to pivotal supporting roles, each actor added to the film's charm. This list of "That Thing You Do!" actors includes any "That Thing You Do!" actresses and all other actors from the film. You can view additional information about each "That Thing You Do!" actor on this list, such as when they appeared. Notable supporting cast members include: * **Chris Ellis as Phil Horace:** The Wonders' initial, somewhat shady, manager. * **Obba Babatundé as Lamarr:** The sophisticated jazz musician who inspires Guy. * **Giovanni Ribisi as Chad:** The original Wonders drummer. * **Alex Rocco as Sol Siler:** The head of Play-Tone Records, who signs The Wonders. * **Peter Scolari as Troy Chesterfield:** The host of the "Hollywood Showcase" show. * **Kevin Pollak as Victor 'Boss Vic Koss' Koss:** The host of the "Boss Vic Koss' TV Show." These actors, along with many others, created a vibrant and believable world for The Wonders to inhabit, enhancing the film's comedic and dramatic elements. The cast and crew credits, including actors, actresses, directors, writers and more, truly showcase the collaborative effort that went into making this cinematic gem.
The Legacy of That Thing You Do! Cast
The enduring popularity of "That Thing You Do!" is a testament not only to its engaging story and catchy music but also to the remarkable performances of its entire ensemble. The **That Thing You Do! cast** brought a unique blend of talent, charisma, and authenticity to their roles, making the characters relatable and memorable. Learn about "That Thing You Do!", discover its actors ranked by popularity, see when it released, view trivia, and more. The film served as a significant stepping stone for many of its younger stars, launching them into more prominent roles in Hollywood. For others, it was a memorable addition to an already impressive career. The chemistry between the main actors, particularly the four members of The Wonders, felt genuine, contributing significantly to the film's rewatchability and cult status. The movie's trivia, popularity rankings, and continuous trending discussions online highlight its lasting impact.
Where Are They Now? Catching Up with the Stars
It's fascinating to find out what the stars of the 1996 musical comedy have been up to since the movie premiered. The careers of the **That Thing You Do! cast** have evolved in diverse and interesting ways. * **Tom Hanks:** Continues to be one of Hollywood's most respected and beloved actors, directors, and producers. He has starred in countless acclaimed films, earning numerous awards and maintaining his status as a cinematic icon. His work ethic and versatility remain unparalleled. * **Tom Everett Scott:** Has enjoyed a steady career in both film and television. He has appeared in TV series like *Southland*, *13 Reasons Why*, and *The Good Girls*, showcasing his range in dramatic and comedic roles. He remains a familiar face on screen. * **Johnathon Schaech:** Has maintained a prolific acting career, often taking on diverse roles in both film and television. He's been seen in projects like *Ray Donovan*, *DC's Legends of Tomorrow*, and numerous independent films, proving his enduring presence in the industry. * **Steve Zahn:** Has become a highly sought-after character actor, known for his ability to blend comedy with dramatic depth. His recent work includes critically acclaimed performances in *The White Lotus* and *Treme*, as well as voice work in animated films. * **Ethan Embry:** Continues to act regularly in both film and television. He gained renewed recognition for his role in *Grace and Frankie* and has appeared in various independent films and TV shows, demonstrating his consistent talent. * **Liv Tyler:** After her iconic roles in *The Lord of the Rings* trilogy and *Armageddon*, Tyler has continued to act, appearing in series like *The Leftovers* and *Harlots*. She also has a successful career as a model and brand ambassador. * **Charlize Theron:** Her career skyrocketed after "That Thing You Do!", leading to an Academy Award for *Monster* and numerous other critically acclaimed performances in films like *Mad Max: Fury Road*, *Atomic Blonde*, and *Bombshell*. She is also a successful producer and a prominent advocate for various social causes. Learn what the actors of the 1996 musical comedy have been up to since the movie's release. From Liv Tyler to Tom Hanks, see how their careers evolved and what they are doing today. Many of them continue to be active in the industry, taking on new challenges and delighting audiences with their talent.
Why That Thing You Do! Still Resonates
More than two decades after its release, "That Thing You Do!" continues to captivate audiences. Its charm lies in its universal themes: the pursuit of dreams, the fleeting nature of fame, the complexities of friendship, and the bittersweet taste of success. The film doesn't just tell a story about a band; it tells a story about youth, ambition, and the moments that define us. The impeccable casting, from the leads to the smallest cameos, created a believable world that viewers could immerse themselves in. The **That Thing You Do! cast** brought these characters to life with such authenticity that their journey feels personal to every viewer. It's a feel-good movie that also offers a poignant reflection on the music industry, making it a timeless piece of cinema that will undoubtedly continue to be loved for generations to come. --- "That Thing You Do!" remains a shining example of a film where every element, especially its talented cast, came together to create something truly special. The enduring appeal of The Wonders and their journey is a testament to the magic created by Tom Hanks and the incredible actors he assembled. We hope you enjoyed this look back at the stars of this beloved movie and what they've been doing since they first made us tap our feet to "That Thing You Do!" What are your favorite moments from the film, or which cast member's career trajectory has surprised you the most? Share your thoughts in the comments below! If you loved this deep dive, be sure to explore our other articles on classic films and their iconic casts.
