Ke Huy Quan Reveals Why The Goonies Still Captivates Audiences
Ke Huy Quan looks back on The Goonies' lasting appeal four decades on and offers fresh insights into the long-awaited sequel now in development.
As the 40th anniversary of The Goonies approaches in 2025, Ke Huy Quan, who played Data in the beloved adventure, reflects on the film’s remarkable staying power. Alongside his memorable turn as Short Round in Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, Quan’s role in The Goonies has cemented his place in the hearts of fans worldwide. The film, which also starred Sean Astin, Josh Brolin, Jeff Cohen, Corey Feldman, Kerri Green, and Martha Plimpton, follows a group of youngsters embarking on a treasure hunt after discovering an ancient map.
Enduring Magic of a Childhood Classic
Four decades after its release, Quan considers what has kept the story alive for so many.
“It's an incredible story, and it was just this perfect casting of this group of actors that came together. We got along so well. And I think it is to the credit of our director, Richard Donner, who kind of let us be who we were at that time,”
he shares, recalling the camaraderie on set.
“We were just a bunch of kids, and he allowed us to have that and carry [it] over onto the screen. It's a great movie. When we were making it, we didn't expect much. We didn't know it was going to become this classic that it is today. 40 years later, people are still talking about it.”
Behind the Scenes and Fan Curiosity
Quan notes that the film’s legacy continues to spark curiosity wherever he goes.
“Everywhere I go, that's all people want to know is, one, 'What was it like to make the movie?' Second is, 'Would there ever be a sequel?' It's one of the most asked questions. And, yeah, we're working on it. So, hopefully we'll get to make one soon.”
The sense of nostalgia and the genuine bond among the cast have clearly resonated with generations of viewers, making the film a touchstone for many.
Sequel Developments and Future Prospects
Earlier this year, news emerged that a follow-up to The Goonies is officially in the pipeline, with Steven Spielberg and original writer Chris Columbus returning as producers. Potsy Poncirol has been tapped to write the script, though details about the release remain under wraps. Meanwhile, Quan continues to delight audiences, lending his voice to Gary De'Snake in Zootropolis 2, set to arrive in cinemas on 28 November.