Nearly three decades after Varsity Blues first rallied audiences with its blend of small-town football drama and late-90s teen energy, fans still wonder what happened to the actors who brought characters like Mox, Jules, and Billy Bob to life. The 1999 Paramount film has since become a cult favorite, and the cast’s paths have diverged widely, with some sustaining acting careers, others finding new directions, and sadly, a few passing away. Here’s a respectful, up-to-date look at what the Varsity Blues cast has been up to — grounded in real information rather than speculation.
The Varsity Blues Cast: What Happened to the Stars
James Van Der Beek (Moxon)
James Van Der Beek’s portrayal of Jonathan “Mox” Moxon was one of his first major film roles, coming off his breakout TV fame on Dawson’s Creek. After Varsity Blues, he continued acting in both television and film, including roles on Don’t Trust the B- in Apartment 23, Pose, and guest spots on comedies like How I Met Your Mother.
In late 2024, Van Der Beek publicly revealed he was being treated for stage-3 colorectal cancer, using his platform to raise awareness and funds — even revisiting Varsity Blues memorabilia to help support cancer-related causes.
Tragically, he passed away on February 11, 2026, at age 48 after a battle with the disease. His death was confirmed by family and widely shared by major outlets. He leaves behind a legacy as both a devoted father and a performer who embraced both dramatic and self-aware roles throughout his career.
Paul Walker (Lance Harbor)
Paul Walker, who played Lance Harbor, went on to greater global fame as Brian O’Conner in the Fast & Furious franchise. His Varsity Blues role was one of several before his breakout in fast cars and action films.
Walker died in a car accident in 2013 at age 40. Since his passing, the Paul Walker Foundation has continued his philanthropic work, focusing on ocean and wildlife conservation — causes close to his heart.
Ron Lester (Billy Bob)
Ron Lester, beloved for his role as Billy Bob, appeared in a handful of films and TV shows after Varsity Blues, including Not Another Teen Movie. Later in life he underwent dramatic weight-loss surgery, which he later said changed his casting trajectory.
Lester died in 2016 at age 45 from liver and kidney failure after ongoing health struggles.
The Varsity Blues Cast Who Carried On
Amy Smart (Jules Harbor)
Amy Smart continued acting in a wide array of films and television series following Varsity Blues. She appeared in comedies like Road Trip and Rat Race, and had recurring roles on shows such as Scrubs, Shameless, and the superhero-themed Stargirl.
Off-screen, Smart has balanced her career with family life, marrying HGTV personality Carter Oosterhouse and raising a daughter.
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Scott Caan (Charlie Tweeder)
Scott Caan parlayed his Varsity Blues visibility into a successful acting career. He became well known for roles in films such as Ocean’s Eleven and especially as Detective Danny “Danno” Williams on the long-running Hawaii Five-0. He’s also worked as a director, photographer, and writer.
Ali Larter (Darcy Sears)
Ali Larter used her Varsity Blues role as a springboard into horror and action genres — notably Final Destination and the Resident Evil franchise — and later gained recognition in TV with Heroes.
Recently she’s appeared in Paramount+ series such as Landman, and has balanced her career with family life after moving out of Hollywood.
Jesse Plemons (Tommy Harbor, Child Role)
Jesse Plemons, who had a small role in Varsity Blues, has built a remarkable career as an adult actor. He’s known for acclaimed work in Breaking Bad, Friday Night Lights, and Fargo, and earned an Academy Award nomination for The Power of the Dog. He’s also married to fellow actor Kirsten Dunst, with whom he shares children.
Supporting Cast
Other ensemble members from Varsity Blues carved out quieter careers or transitioned to life outside of Hollywood. For example, Eliel Swinton became a speed and agility coach after sports injuries, and veteran actor Richard Lineback continued character roles on television before stepping back from high-profile work.
Jon Voight (Coach Bud Kilmer)
Jon Voight, already an established actor when Varsity Blues debuted, continued a prolific career across major films and TV well into his 80s. His post-Varsity Blues work includes roles in dramas, biographical films, and series, underscoring his longevity.
Varsity Blues Cast: Final Notes
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Varsity Blues has become a nostalgic touchstone of late-90s cinema, and its cast’s stories reflect a range of Hollywood realities — from long-standing success and reinvention to tragic early deaths.
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Aside from the losses of Van Der Beek, Walker, and Lester, many cast members remain active, whether onscreen, offscreen, or in other ventures.
