Introduction
“Dirty Grandpa”, the 2016 comedy starring Robert De Niro and Zac Efron, took audiences on a raunchy, laugh-out-loud road trip. The film follows Jason Kelly (Efron), a strait-laced lawyer, who is tricked into driving his recently widowed grandfather, Dick (De Niro), to Florida for spring break just days before his wedding. The resulting chaos is fueled by Dick’s outrageous behavior and Jason’s attempts to maintain some semblance of order. But beyond the outrageous gags and suggestive humor, the movie succeeded in capturing attention largely due to its ensemble cast.
The “Dirty Grandpa” cast features a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, each bringing their unique talents to the comedic table. This article takes a closer look at the talented individuals who brought the characters of “Dirty Grandpa” to life, exploring their roles in the film and examining what they have been up to since their spring break adventure. Prepare for a trip down memory lane as we uncover the post-“Dirty Grandpa” careers of these actors.
Robert De Niro: The “Dirty Grandpa” Himself
Robert De Niro needs no introduction. An acting legend with two Academy Awards and a career spanning decades, De Niro stepped into the role of Dick Kelly, the titular “Dirty Grandpa”. Dick, a former Army Lieutenant Colonel grieving the loss of his wife, uses his grandson’s impending nuptials as an excuse to relive his youth and sow some wild oats. De Niro embraced the raunchy humor with gusto, delivering a performance that was both shocking and hilarious.
Long before “Dirty Grandpa,” De Niro solidified his place in cinematic history with iconic roles in films like “Taxi Driver,” “Raging Bull,” and “Goodfellas.” He is considered one of the greatest actors of all time.
Post-“Dirty Grandpa,” De Niro has remained incredibly active. He starred in Martin Scorsese’s critically acclaimed “The Irishman,” earning him another Academy Award nomination. He has also taken on roles in comedies like “War with Grandpa” and dramas like “Joker.” His presence on screen remains as captivating as ever, and he continues to choose projects that showcase his versatility and enduring talent. Robert De Niro proves that even after decades in the business, he is still a force to be reckoned with, constantly seeking new challenges and surprising audiences with his range. He will next be seen in the much-anticipated Killers of the Flower Moon.
Zac Efron: From Teen Idol to Comedic Lead
Zac Efron transitioned from teen heartthrob to a versatile actor with a diverse range of roles. In “Dirty Grandpa,” Efron played Jason Kelly, a somewhat uptight and risk-averse lawyer on the verge of marrying his controlling fiancee. His character is thrust into a series of increasingly absurd situations by his grandfather, forcing him to confront his own desires and re-evaluate his life choices.
After his breakout role in “High School Musical,” Efron made a conscious effort to shed his teen idol image and take on more challenging roles. He appeared in films like “Neighbors,” “The Greatest Showman,” and “Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile,” showcasing his dramatic abilities and comedic timing.
Since “Dirty Grandpa,” Efron has continued to expand his horizons. He starred in “Baywatch,” “The Beach Bum,” and lent his voice to animated films. His commitment to both comedy and drama demonstrates his growth as an actor and his willingness to take on diverse projects. He also starred in the survival thriller Gold. Zac Efron remains one of Hollywood’s most bankable stars, proving his staying power and his ability to evolve with each new role. His next big role is set to be in The Iron Claw, a biopic of the Von Erich wrestling family.
Zoey Deutch: The Spirited Shadia
Zoey Deutch brought a vibrant energy to the role of Shadia, a free-spirited college student whom Jason meets during the infamous spring break trip. Shadia represents everything that Jason is missing in his life: spontaneity, passion, and a carefree attitude. Her interactions with Jason help him to question his choices and ultimately lead him down a different path.
Deutch has steadily risen in prominence since “Dirty Grandpa.” She has appeared in a variety of films, including “Before I Fall,” “Flower,” “Set It Up,” “Zombieland: Double Tap” and more recently “Something from Tiffany’s.” Her performances have garnered critical acclaim, and she is quickly becoming one of Hollywood’s most sought-after young actresses.
Deutch’s talent extends beyond acting; she also serves as a producer. She’s proven her ability to choose interesting and challenging projects. Zoey Deutch is on a trajectory to become a major star, and her talent and charisma are undeniable.
Aubrey Plaza: The Unforgettable Lenore
Aubrey Plaza is known for her deadpan delivery and quirky sense of humor. She delivered a memorable performance as Lenore, Dick’s wild and unpredictable spring break companion. Lenore embraces the chaos and adds to the film’s outrageousness with her irreverent attitude and unconventional behavior.
Plaza’s breakthrough role was in the hit television series “Parks and Recreation,” where she played the sardonic April Ludgate. Since then, she has continued to carve out a unique niche in Hollywood, appearing in films like “Safety Not Guaranteed,” “Ingrid Goes West,” and “Black Bear.”
Since “Dirty Grandpa,” Plaza has continued to challenge herself with diverse roles, including parts in “Legion,” “An Evening with Beverly Luff Linn” and “Emily the Criminal,” which she also produced. She’s established herself as a singular talent, unafraid to take risks and embrace unconventional characters. Her distinctive style and comedic timing make her a favorite among audiences.
Julianne Hough: Meredith Goldstein
Julianne Hough portrayed Meredith Goldstein, Jason’s controlling and ambitious fiancee. Meredith represents the life that Jason is expected to lead: a successful career, a lavish wedding, and a predictable future. However, her rigid expectations clash with Jason’s growing desire for freedom and spontaneity.
Hough initially gained fame as a professional dancer on “Dancing with the Stars,” before transitioning to acting. She has appeared in films like “Footloose,” “Rock of Ages,” and “Safe Haven.”
Post-“Dirty Grandpa,” Hough has continued to pursue both acting and dancing. She has starred in television musicals and continued to perform on stage. She has also expanded her brand to include wellness and lifestyle ventures. Julianne Hough showcases her versatility and continues to explore different creative avenues, solidifying her position as a multi-talented entertainer.
The Supporting Ensemble: Adding to the Chaos
The success of “Dirty Grandpa” wasn’t solely due to the main cast; a strong supporting ensemble also contributed to the film’s comedic effect.
Adam Pally, known for his comedic roles in “Happy Endings” and “The Mindy Project,” played Cousin Nick, Jason’s awkward and well-meaning relative. Dermot Mulroney, a familiar face in Hollywood, played David Kelly, Jason’s father. Brandon Mychal Smith, known for his comedic timing, played Tyrone, a friend of Lenore who joins the spring break mayhem. These actors helped to round out the world of “Dirty Grandpa,” adding depth and humor to the already outrageous story.
A Look Back: Chemistry and Reception
The chemistry between Robert De Niro and Zac Efron was a key ingredient in the success of “Dirty Grandpa”. Their contrasting personalities and comedic timing created a dynamic that was both entertaining and believable. The supporting cast also gelled well, contributing to the film’s overall comedic tone.
However, “Dirty Grandpa” received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising the performances of De Niro and Efron and others criticizing the film’s raunchy humor. Despite the mixed reception, the film was a commercial success, proving that audiences were willing to embrace its brand of outrageous comedy.
Conclusion
The cast of “Dirty Grandpa” brought a unique blend of talent and charisma to the screen, contributing to the film’s comedic appeal. From Robert De Niro’s seasoned performance to Zac Efron’s comedic timing and the supporting cast’s memorable contributions, the actors helped to create a film that resonated with audiences.
Since “Dirty Grandpa,” the cast members have continued to pursue their careers, taking on diverse roles and expanding their horizons. They’ve demonstrated their versatility and ability to evolve as artists. Whether you’re a fan of the film or simply curious about the actors involved, it’s clear that the cast of “Dirty Grandpa” has left its mark on the entertainment industry and are continuing to forge successful careers. They’ve continued to entertain us on screen, whether we’re laughing or crying with them. And who knows, maybe someday we’ll see a “Dirty Grandpa” reunion!
