From Melakon to Medicine: Where Are the Star Troopers Now?

The year was 1997, and the world was buzzing with excitement as the live-action Star Wars film, Star Troopers, hit theaters. Based on the 1987 animated series of the same name, the movie was intended to be a big-screen adaptation of the lesser-known Star Wars spin-off. Starring Michael Bell, Chuck Russell, and Don Murray, the film promised to deliver thrilling action sequences, memorable characters, and a deeper exploration of the Star Wars universe. However, the movie received mixed reviews and underperformed at the box office, leaving the cast and crew wondering what could have been. As the years went by, the cast members went their separate ways, pursuing various careers and projects. In this article, we'll take a journey to see what the cast of Star Troopers has been up to since the film's release.

The Origins of the Cast

A Brief History of the Star Wars Animated Series

Before the live-action film, the Star Wars franchise had already spawned several animated series, including the popular 1985 animated series, Star Wars: Ewoks. The show was a critical and commercial success, introducing a new generation of fans to the Star Wars universe. The animated series continued to explore the Star Wars galaxy, with episodes that ranged from light-hearted to dark and serious. The series finale, "Caravan of Courage: An Ewok Adventure," set the stage for the live-action film, which would eventually be released as Star Troopers.

A Brief Look at the Cast

Michael Bell

Michael Bell, the lead actor in Star Troopers, is perhaps best known for his role as the voice of Donkey Kong in the classic Nintendo games. Born on January 9, 1958, in Los Angeles, California, Bell began his acting career in the 1970s, landing roles in several TV shows and films. In the early 1980s, he became a staple of the Saturday morning cartoon scene, providing voices for characters in shows like Scooby-Doo and Josie and the Pussycats.

Chuck Russell

Chuck Russell, the director of Star Troopers, has a diverse filmography that showcases his versatility as a filmmaker. Born on December 23, 1956, in Bellevue, Washington, Russell began his career in the 1980s, working as a production assistant on films like Terminator 2: Judgment Day. He made his directorial debut with the 1990 film, Tango & Cash, before taking on the helm of Star Troopers.

Don Murray

Don Murray, the veteran actor in Star Troopers, has had a long and distinguished career in Hollywood. Born on April 19, 1939, in Kent, Ohio, Murray began his acting career in the 1950s, landing roles in films like On the Waterfront and Splendor in the Grass. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Murray continued to work steadily, appearing in films like The Manchurian Candidate and The Apostate.

Post-Star Troopers Career Highlights

Michael Bell's Voice Acting Work

Notable Roles

Michael Bell has continued to work in the voice acting industry, providing voices for a wide range of animated shows and films. Some of his notable roles include:

• Donkey Kong (Nintendo)
• Scooby-Doo (Scooby-Doo, Where Are You!)
• Josie and the Pussycats (Josie and the Pussycats)
• Inspector Gadget (Inspector Gadget)
• Pinky and the Brain (Pinky and the Brain)

Recent Work

Bell has continued to be active in the voice acting industry, appearing in shows like:

• Cow and Chicken (Cartoon Network)
• Johnny Bravo (Cartoon Network)
• ReBoot (Disney Channel)
• Transformers: Robots in Disguise (Cartoon Network)

Chuck Russell's Directorial Career

Notable Films

Chuck Russell has continued to work as a director, helming films like:

• Madhouse (1990)
• Arctic Blue (1991)
• Trespass (1992)
• The Phantom (1996)
• Volcano (1997)

Recent Work

Russell has continued to work in film and television, appearing as a writer and director on shows like:

• CSI: Crime Scene Investigation (CBS)
• Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (NBC)
• The X-Files (Fox)

Don Murray's Acting Career

Notable Roles

Don Murray has continued to work steadily in film and television, appearing in roles like:

• Homicide: Life on the Street (CBS)
• Weeds (Showtime)
• ER (NBC)
• Ray Donovan (Showtime)
• The Good Wife (CBS)

Recent Work

Murray has continued to be active in the acting industry, appearing in shows like:

• American Crime (ABC)
• Person of Interest (CBS)
• The Knick (Cinemax)
• Lucifer (Fox)
• Gossip Girl (The CW)

The Legacy of Star Troopers

Impact on the Star Wars Franchise

Despite its mixed reception, Star Troopers has maintained a loyal fan base over the years. The film's unique blend of science fiction and action elements has influenced a generation of fans, who continue to explore the Star Wars universe through various media. While the film itself may not have been a commercial success, its impact on the Star Wars franchise as a whole has been significant.

A Look at the Cast's Legacy

The cast of Star Troopers has continued to make waves in the entertainment industry, with many of them going on to achieve success in their respective fields. From Michael Bell's voice acting work to Chuck Russell's directorial career, the cast has proven that their talents extend