“Varsity Blues” premiered in theaters in 1999. The movie quickly became more than just another teen sports drama. It helped capture the spirit of late-’90s pop culture. The movie included a cast of rising young stars, like James Van Der Beek, alongside seasoned Hollywood talent. “Varsity Blues” helped launch careers, but where does the cast stand now? Check out the “Varisty Blues” then and now photos below.
James Van Der Beek (Jonathan “Mox” Moxon)
GettyVan Der Beek was the backup quarterback for West Canaan’s high school football team. However, he would become the unlikely heart and soul of the team in “Varsity Blues.”
This movie came out during the height of Van Der Beek’s career. He was best known for his role on “Dawson’s Creek” at the time. This role helped to make him a recognizable face for pop culture in the late ‘90s.
James stayed active in TV and film for years, but he sadly passed away in February 2026 at the age of 48 after a battle with colorectal cancer. His list of credits includes “Don’t Trust the B in Apartment 23” and “CSI: Cyber.” He also competed on reality TV shows “Dancing With the Stars” and “The Masked Singer.” He was even writing a memoir before his passing.
Jon Voight (Coach Bud Kilmer)
GettyJon Voight played Coach Kilmer, who was intimidating and ruthless. He was the leader of the West Canaan Coyotes.
Voight brought gravitas to “Varisty Blues,” as he was a seasoned pro alongside the young cast. Voight was already an Oscar-winning actor before taking on this role.
GettyHe is now 87 years old and continues working in the industry. He was appointed Special Ambassador to Hollywood in 2025. This was done to boost U.S. film production.
Paul Walker (Lance Harbor)
Paul Walker played Lance Harbor, the starting quarterback for the West Canaan Coyotes and hometown hero. He was able to bring the athletic charisma the role needed, but also the emotional side of things as well.
GettyThis was an early breakout role for Walker, who would go on to gain global fame as Brian O’Conner in the “Fast & Furious) franchise.
Like his co-star, Walker passed away at a young age. He died in a car crash at the age of 40 in 2013. His legacy lives on through his work in the “Fast & Furious” movies, as well as his philanthropic work with the Paul Walker Foundation.
Ron Lester (Billy Bob)
Ron Lester played Billy Bob, who happened to be loved by fans of the movie. He was the good-hearted offensive lineman whose presence brought both humor and heart to the Coyotes’ locker room.
This was one of his most memorable roles. He also starred in “Good Burger” and “Not Another Teen Movie.
GettySadly, Lester passed away in 2016 at the age of 45. He died from liver and kidney failure after years of health struggles. His performance in “Varisty Blues” remains one of the most fondly remembered from the movie.
Scott Caan (Charlie Tweeder)
Scott Caan played the wild, rebellious wide receiver Charlie Tweeder. It was a scene-stealing role that showcased Caan’s ability to balance humor and intensity on screen. This role was the start of what would become a long career in movies and television.
GettySince “Varsity Blues,” Caan has maintained a steady Hollywood career. He may be best known for his starring role as Detective Danny “Danno” Williams on “Hawaii Five-0.”
Caan has also directed and photographed films. He continues to act regularly and has built a strong body of work into his 40s.
Amy Smart (Jules Harbor)
Amy Smart played Julie (Jules) Harbor. She happened to be Lance’s sister, but also the love interest of Mox. She brought both charm and grounded emotion to the high school story.
This role helped Smart showcase early versatility that would help her build a long career.
Since her role in “Varsity Blues,” Smart has continued acting steadily in film and television, including roles in “The Butterfly Effect,” “Just Friends,” “MacGyver,” and “Shamless.”
In 2011, Smart married HGTV personality Carter Oosterhouse. They have one daughter together.
Eliel Swinton (Wendell Brown)
Eliel Swinton played Wendell Brown in the “Varisty Blues” movie. Wendell was the star running back whose skills on the field helped shape some key moments for the Coyotes.
Swinton had limited acting before and after this movie. However, he left a memorable mark in the film’s football ranks.
Swinton actually played football outside of the movie. However, his football career ended due to an injury.
He then stepped away from acting and now Swinton works as a coach and trainer at Sierra Canyon School in California. He is mentoring young athletes and focusing on fitness and community impact.
Ali Larter (Darcy Sears)
Ali Larter made her big-screen debut in “Varsity Blues” as Darcy Sears. She played the fiery cheerleading captain who happened to have one of the movie’s most talked about moments with the whipped cream covering her breasts. This role helped kickstart her career in Hollywood.
Larter has gone on to have a ton of success in Hollywood. She has had roles in “Final Destination,” the “Resident Evil” movies, and “Legally Blonde.” She has also had success on TV.
Larter has starred in “Heroes” and currently stars as Angela Norris in the Paramount+ drama “Landman.”
Almost three decades later, “Varisty Blues” remains a beloved cult favorite. While some of its stars have left us too soon, others continue to make their mark across film and television.
