Celebrity Info
Best known for his iconic role as Chunk in the beloved 1980s adventure film The Goonies, Jeff Cohen has taken quite an unexpected yet inspiring journey from child actor to respected entertainment lawyer. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Jeff Cohen first stepped into the spotlight back in 1983 with a role in Ron Howard’s unaired sitcom pilot Little Shots. Though that project didn’t take off, it marked the beginning of a modest acting career. He went on to appear in guest spots on popular family shows like Webster and Kids Incorporated, but everything changed when he landed the unforgettable part of Chunk—a lovable, quick-witted kid with a knack for trivia and a signature dance that became legendary.
The Goonies was a massive hit, capturing the hearts of audiences and turning Jeff Cohen into a household name almost overnight. In the years that followed, he appeared in various TV roles throughout the ‘80s, including two memorable appearances on Family Ties, where his comedic timing shone through. But as time went on, Jeff Cohen began to feel the pressures of fame, especially as much of the attention revolved around jokes about his weight. Wanting more control over his life, he gradually stepped back from acting during high school, focusing instead on fitness and playing football.
That said, Jeff Cohen never disowned his past. In fact, he embraced it with humor and confidence—while studying at the University of California, Berkeley, he famously brought back the Truffle Shuffle at football games, delighting fans and fellow students alike. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in 1996, proving that there was far more to Jeff Cohen than meets the eye. From there, he set his sights on law, enrolling at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, where he sharpened his skills and prepared for a new chapter.
By 2002, Jeff Cohen had co-founded the entertainment law firm Cohen & Gardner, quickly establishing himself as a savvy and influential player behind the scenes. His expertise didn’t go unnoticed—in 2008, The Hollywood Reporter named Jeff Cohen one of the Top 35 Executives 35 and Under, a testament to his impact in the industry. While many remember him as the hilarious kid from The Goonies, Jeff Cohen has since built a legacy defined not by nostalgia, but by resilience, reinvention, and quiet determination.
Well, when it comes to Jeff Cohen’s most celebrated work, you’ve got to talk about The Goonies (1985)—that’s definitely his highest rated movie by a long shot. It’s kind of interesting, really, because even though Jeff Cohen was just a kid at the time, his role left a lasting mark. Fans still bring up The Goonies (1985) whenever they talk about classic 80s films. But here’s the twist—when we look at the other end of the spectrum, believe it or not, it’s still The Goonies (1985) that shows up as his lowest rated project. I know, sounds a bit confusing, right? But that’s how ratings can go sometimes—depending on who you ask or which platform you check, opinions really vary. So, whether people love it or are a little more critical, one thing’s for sure: Jeff Cohen will always be connected to The Goonies (1985). It’s hands down the most talked-about title in Jeff Cohen’s career, both in praise and in critique.
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