What the Mean Girls Cast Is Up to Now (20 Years Later)

ENTERTAINMENT
By Gwen Stockton

It’s October 3rd – and you know we have to talk about it. More than twenty years have passed since Regina George and the Plastics first ruled the halls of North Shore High, yet Mean Girls remains a defining teen comedy with lines that are still endlessly quoted today.

As we mark this iconic pop-culture holiday and reflect on two decades (plus a little extra) since the film’s release, let’s catch up with the unforgettable cast and see where their journeys have taken them since 2004.

1. Lindsay Lohan: From Teen Queen to Comeback Star

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The actress who brilliantly portrayed Cady Heron continues her Hollywood journey with exciting new projects. Lohan is currently preparing for her role in the highly anticipated sequel “Freakier Friday” (2025), reuniting with Jamie Lee Curtis in the follow-up to their beloved mother-daughter comedy.

Beyond film work, Lindsay is expanding her television presence by developing the Hulu series “Count My Lies.” Her career renaissance has delighted fans who grew up watching her transformation from new girl to temporary Plastic and back to her authentic self.

2. Rachel McAdams: Regina George to Respected Actress

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The former queen bee of the Plastics has built an impressive career spanning indie darlings and blockbusters alike. McAdams is currently attached to the survival horror film “Send Help,” showcasing her versatility as an actress who continues to take on challenging roles.

Personal changes seem to be brewing as well. Reports indicate she recently sold her home, suggesting a potential lifestyle shift or relocation.

Unlike her character Regina, Rachel maintains a relatively private life while consistently delivering memorable performances that have earned her critical acclaim.

3. Amanda Seyfried: Gretchen Wieners to Hollywood Powerhouse

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The actress behind weather-predicting Karen Smith has transformed from supporting player to leading lady with remarkable range. She’s currently filming “The Housemaid” (2025), a psychological thriller that promises to showcase her dramatic talents.

Adding to her busy schedule, Seyfried has joined the cast of the mysterious project “The Testament of Ann Lee.” Her career evolution from teen comedy to serious dramatic roles proves she’s much more than just a pretty face.

With an Emmy and multiple award nominations under her belt, Amanda has established herself as one of Hollywood’s most respected talents.

4. Lacey Chabert: Gretchen Wieners’ Hallmark Happy Ending

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Remember the insecure Plastic who tried making “fetch” happen? Gretchen Wieners has found her niche as the undisputed queen of Hallmark movies. Chabert recently signed an expanded deal with the network that includes multiple films and her own product line – a testament to her popularity with viewers.

Her upcoming projects include “Haul Out the Halloween” (premiering October 11, 2025) and the holiday film “She’s Making a List” (Christmas 2025). Fans can also catch more of her personal side on “Celebrations with Lacey Chabert,” her reality show recently renewed for a second season.

5. Lizzy Caplan: Janis Ian’s Edgy Evolution

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The actress who portrayed artsy outsider Janis Ian has cultivated a career filled with complex, nuanced roles. Caplan recently made headlines when she spoke candidly about the cancellation of “Gambit,” a project she had been attached to that unfortunately won’t see the light of day in 2025.

Despite this setback, Lizzy continues to impress audiences with her performances in critically acclaimed series. Her portrayal of complicated women with sharp edges and vulnerability has become something of a specialty.

Unlike her high school character, Caplan has found her place in Hollywood without compromising her authentic artistic vision.

6. Daniel Franzese: Damian’s Continued Cultural Impact

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The actor who gave us the iconic line “She doesn’t even go here!” has remained a beloved figure in the Mean Girls universe. Franzese recently made fans’ hearts flutter when he publicly stated that the original cast “all want” to create a proper sequel to the 2004 hit.

Beyond his breakout role as Damian, Daniel has built a diverse career spanning acting, comedy, and advocacy work. His openness about his sexuality and body positivity has made him an important voice for representation in Hollywood.

Twenty years later, he remains just as “too gay to function” (as Janis would say) – though we know only Damian is allowed to say that!

7. Tim Meadows: Principal Duvall’s Enduring Comedy Career

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The Saturday Night Live veteran who played the memorable Principal Duvall hasn’t slowed down one bit. Meadows delighted fans by reprising his role in the 2024 Mean Girls musical film adaptation, bringing his deadpan delivery back to North Shore High.

Behind the scenes, Tim and Tina Fey negotiated their returns with one hilarious condition – they wouldn’t have to sing in the musical adaptation! The arrangement speaks to both his comedic instincts and savvy career decisions.

His longevity in the comedy world proves that while trends come and go, genuine talent and impeccable timing remain forever in style.

8. Tina Fey: Ms. Norbury’s Creative Empire Expansion

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The mastermind behind Mean Girls has continued to build her impressive entertainment empire. Fey returned as Ms. Norbury in the 2024 musical film adaptation, though she cleverly negotiated to avoid singing – proving she’s just as shrewd as her mathematical alter ego.

Her creative output remains prolific with the launch of her new Netflix series “The Four Seasons” in 2025, where she serves as both creator and star. The show adds another success to her extensive portfolio of beloved comedies.

From SNL to 30 Rock to Mean Girls, Tina’s unique voice and razor-sharp humor have made her one of comedy’s most influential figures of the past two decades.

9. Rajiv Surendra: Kevin G’s Artistic Renaissance

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The actor who gave us North Shore’s mathlete rapper extraordinaire has charted a fascinating path outside traditional Hollywood. Surendra has transformed his artistic talents into a thriving calligraphy and art business, embracing creativity in a whole new medium.

Fans were thrilled when he briefly returned to his Kevin G roots for a nostalgic 2023 Walmart advertisement that referenced Mean Girls. His unexpected career pivot demonstrates there’s life beyond typecasting for child actors brave enough to follow their passions.

Rajiv’s journey from teen actor to accomplished artist proves that sometimes the most fulfilling path isn’t the most obvious one.

10. Jonathan Bennett: Aaron Samuels’ Multifaceted Career

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The heartthrob whose hair looked sexy pushed back has diversified his career in exciting ways. Bennett recently made his Broadway debut in “Spamalot,” proving his talents extend beyond the screen to live theater performances.

Jonathan has found a comfortable home at Hallmark, where he hosts various specials and appears in the network’s popular films. His personal life has blossomed too – he married Jaymes Vaughan in a beautiful ceremony that had fans everywhere cheering for their happy ending.

Unlike Aaron Samuels, who couldn’t figure out the limit of x approaching infinity, Bennett seems to have no limits to his career ambitions.