What The Cast Of Young Guns Looks Like Today

Despite numerous western films based on the legendary outlaw Billy the Kid, none are as impressive as the 1988 film “Young Guns.” In this production, Emilio Estevez portrays the fast-drawing leader of the Regulators. The movie is a partly fictional account of the Lincoln County War in New Mexico’s history. Estevez delivers an outstanding performance as a young Billy in this film. With a talented ensemble cast from the Brat Pack era, the movie earned three times its production budget. Consequently, it’s not surprising that a follow-up, “Young Guns II,” was released just two years later, although it didn’t achieve the same level of success as the original. Nevertheless, these movies have left an indelible mark on viewers and kept Billy’s escapades intriguing over time.

After more than three decades, Estevez revealed that “Young Guns III: Dead or Alive” is indeed coming to life! However, before Billy the Kid makes another appearance on the silver screen, let’s catch up with where the cast stands now. While some members of the “Young Guns” team experienced remarkable growth following their time with the Regulators, others found themselves a bit detached from the main path. Here’s what we know about several stars from the initial two “Young Guns” movies; some might even reappear in this eagerly awaited third installment.

Emilio Estevez as Billy the Kid

In the early days of “Young Guns,” I was merely an orphan with a knack for lawlessness and a quick trigger finger. Without purpose or direction, I found myself drawn into the Regulators’ circle. However, after our mentor met his untimely end, we sought vengeance. As time passed, I became the infamous member of this gang, and tales of my exploits spread like wildfire across the frontier. It’s no surprise that I was the center of attention in this band of young outlaws – one whose fate with the law remains uncertain after our last fateful encounter.

After the release of “Young Guns II,” Emilio Estevez quickly secured a main role as Coach Gordon Bombay in the movie series “The Mighty Ducks.” Throughout the 1990s, Estevez also featured in numerous films such as “National Lampoon’s Loaded Weapon,” “Another Stakeout,” and “Freejack.” He had a cameo in the 1996 “Mission: Impossible,” although he wasn’t officially credited. Furthermore, Estevez began his directorial career with the 1986 film “Wisdom” and has since directed five more movies for the theater, with the latest being “The Public” in 2018.

Back in 1998, I only graced a western scene once, in a TV movie called “Dollar for the Dead”. Fast forward to today, I’ve been lucky enough to step back into the skates as Gordon Bombay in Disney+’s “The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers”. Fans like me have held onto the dream of “Young Guns 3”, and I can’t wait to be a part of it whenever it finally gets off the ground.

Kiefer Sutherland as Doc Scurlock

As “Doc” Scurlock, the sensitive gun-slinger in me, I’m Kiefer Sutherland in this tale. Not just a quick draw, I’ve got a way with words too – as the scholar and poet among the Regulators. Love finds me in an unexpected corner when I lay my eyes on Yen Sun (Alice Carter), our enemy’s Chinese confidante. Against all reason and desire, I chase after Yen, and miraculously, she returns the affection. Standing shoulder to shoulder with my comrades, I’m among the lucky few Regulators who live to see another day – though at great cost, I give up my life to protect those I fight alongside.

Following a successful run of films in the late ’80s, Kiefer Sutherland gained significant momentum in the ’90s with movies like “Flatliners,” “A Few Good Men,” “The Three Musketeers,” and “Dark City” to his credit. However, it was the 21st century that truly cemented his fame. Starring as Jack Bauer in the critically acclaimed Fox series “24,” Sutherland appeared in nine seasons, a television movie, and a revival. Post-“24,” he starred in the brief run of “Touch” from 2012 to 2013, followed by the ABC-turned-Netflix series “Designated Survivor” from 2016 to 2019. In 2024, Sutherland portrayed Larry Lasker in Clint Eastwood’s courtroom drama “Juror No. 2.”

Lou Diamond Phillips as Jose Chavez y Chavez

Of mixed Mexican-Navajo descent, Jose Chavez y Chavez is portrayed in the films as the enigmatic, weapon-carrying, and peyote-using member of the Regulators. Throughout both movies, he serves as their moral guide, leading them with integrity. Despite his ideas sometimes being questioned, he consistently proves his worth in a fight. Going against the group’s expectations, Chavez remains steadfast to his convictions and champions for those he has mourned. The poignant scene of his demise in “Young Guns II” is one of the more moving moments in the film, leaving us as heartbroken as Billy at his departure.

In summary, Lou Diamond Phillips is well known for his role as Chavez, but he’s also played characters such as Jim Chee in “The Dark Wind”, Monfriez in “Courage Under Fire”, and Cisco in “The Big Hit”. In 1994, he directed not one but two films – “Dangerous Touch” and “Sioux City”. Later, he directed over a dozen TV episodes. Moving on to television, Phillips started off with smaller roles and comic book characters, which included more than you might think. After the cancellation of “Stargate Universe”, he was cast as Henry Standing Bear in the A&E-turned-Netflix series “Longmire”. For six seasons, he beautifully portrayed Henry, earning the adoration of viewers. Since then, he’s appeared on shows like “Prodigal Son”, “Blue Bloods”, and “The Ranch”.

Charlie Sheen as Dick Brewer

Despite sharing the same brother, Charlie Sheen’s character Richard “Dick” Brewer bore no resemblance to Billy. While Dick served as the original leader of the Regulators and took charge of them after their mentor was slain, leading ultimately to his own demise, he consistently struggled to keep Billy in check. Consequently, Dick met an untimely end in the first film, but the Regulators paid tribute to him by seeking vengeance on his behalf.

After his stint in “Young Guns,” Charlie Sheen worked with Kiefer Sutherland again in “The Three Musketeers” and alongside his brother in “Men at Work.” Over the next decade, he appeared in numerous films. However, things took a different turn in 2000 when he joined the Michael J. Fox series “Spin City.” Following its end, he was swiftly cast as Charlie Harper on CBS’s “Two and a Half Men.” During his time there, Sheen became the highest-paid TV actor, but this changed due to several legal problems that led to his termination in 2011. Since then, we seldom hear about him, although he starred in “9/11” in 2017 and appeared on Max original “Bookie” in 2024.

Casey Siemaszko as Charlie Bowdre

In the film “Young Guns,” Charlie Bowdre, played by Casey Siemaszko, transitions from a reckless gunslinger to a more thoughtful character over time. Despite his loyalty to his companions, he decides to abandon his new Mexican bride during their journey and ultimately sacrifices himself to deal the fatal blow to the renowned bounty hunter John Kinney (Allen Keller). Although the actual Charlie lived longer than his screen counterpart, this Regulator departs with distinction.

After starring in “Young Guns,” Siemaszko reprised his character “3-D” in “Back to the Future Part II” and portrayed Curley in a 1992 adaptation of “Of Mice and Men” directed by Gary Sinise. In the new millennium, he appeared as a guest star in episodes of shows like “The Adventures of Brisco County Jr.,” “Oz,” “Chicago Sons,” and “Law & Order: Criminal Intent.” He later landed a recurring role as Captain Pat Fraker on “NYPD Blue.” Siemaszko has also portrayed Detective Dan Williams on “Damages” and Allen Blume in “NYC 22,” and voiced several characters on “Law & Order.” Additionally, he can be heard in video games such as “Red Dead Revolver” and “Red Dead Redemption 2.”

Dermot Mulroney as Dirty Steve Stephens

In the first film, the character portrayed by Dermot Mulroney, known as “Dirty” Steve Stephens, was initially viewed as a racist figure. However, throughout the movie, we witness Steve’s transformation as he begins to appreciate the worth of others. Although he briefly returns to his old ways when he believes Chavez has left them, there comes a point where this character is prepared to sacrifice his life, which adds complexity to the character known as the Regulator.

Following his performance in “Young Guns,” Mulroney has consistently found work opportunities. In 1995, he appeared in “Copycat” and “My Best Friend’s Wedding” from the same year. Throughout the 2000s, he graced the screen in films like “The Wedding Date,” “Zodiac,” “Burn After Reading,” and “J. Edgar.” He also took on more substantial roles in “The Grey,” “Jobs,” and “Insidious: Chapter 3.” More recently, his career has shifted towards television, starting with the brief-lived series “Crisis” and “Pure Genius.” On “Shameless,” he played Sean Pierce for several years, while on “Chicago Fire,” he portrayed Chief Dom Pascal. Interestingly, Mulroney is also a skilled cellist, contributing to various film soundtracks over the years.

Terence Stamp as John Tunstall

John Tunstall was the sole individual who trusted the Regulators, and he welcomed each of these street kids onto his property, dedicating himself to their education and well-being. Although some failed to comprehend his approach, Billy soon found a place for himself on Tunstall’s land… until Murphy ended Tunstall’s life in public view. Tunstall may not have had a significant role in “Young Guns,” but his influence was deeply felt throughout the movie.

Terence Stamp, well-known for his role as General Zod in “Superman II”, later demonstrated his versatility as an action star in films like “The Limey” (released nearly a decade after “Young Guns”). He then took on roles such as Chancellor Valorum in “Star Wars: Episode I — The Phantom Menace”, Terry Stricter in “Bowfinger”, Stick in “Elektra”, and reprised his Superman universe role as the voice of Jor-El for the prequel series “Smallville”. Other notable appearances include the 2011 thriller “The Adjustment Bureau”, the 1994 dark comedy “The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert”, and most recently, 2021’s “Last Night in Soho”.

Jack Palance as Lawrence Murphy

In the tale, Jack Palance portrays Lawrence Murphy, a local entrepreneur with ambitions to push Tunstall out of his domain to establish a monopoly over the Lincoln County cattle business. Unscrupulous and ruthless, Murphy is willing to employ violence as a tool for attaining his objectives, demonstrating a callous disregard for human life. This becomes particularly evident in his dealings with Yen Sun. Eventually, Billy delivers the justice that Murphy deserves.

In the Western world, Jack Palance is primarily recognized for his portrayal of Jack Wilson in the 1953 movie “Shane,” though after starring as Billy the Kid in “Young Guns,” his career took a more restricted path. Post his role as Eckhardt ‘Grissom’ in Tim Burton’s 1989 “Batman,” Palance graced the screens in “City Slickers” (earning him a Golden Globe), “Tango & Cash,” and numerous TV movies, many of which were adaptations of popular classics such as “Treasure Island” and “A Christmas Carol.” In 2006, he passed away due to natural causes, with his last on-screen appearance being that of ‘Poppy’ Davitch in a 2004 TV adaptation of Anne Tyler’s “Back When We Were Grownups.

Terry O’Quinn as Alexander McSween

As attorney Alex McSween, Tunstall’s legal representative, finds himself in a tricky situation when he confronts a formidable figure like Murphy. Although he can’t retaliate physically, as it would nullify his life insurance policy, he finds alternative methods to stand up for himself. Regrettably, these actions prove fatal, leaving his wife Susan (portrayed by Sharon Thomas) in charge of a significant portion of the nation’s cattle business. Ultimately, McSween sacrificed his life for Tunstall’s vision, which outlived them all.

Terry O’Quinn is an actor who may be recognized from previous roles. Following his appearance in “Young Guns,” he played Howard Hughes in “The Rocketeer” and John Clum in “Tombstone,” but it’s his television work that stands out the most. After working on shows like “Homicide: Life on the Street,” “Earth 2,” and “JAG,” O’Quinn teamed up with Chris Carter for “Millennium,” where he portrayed Peter Watts; “Harsh Realm,” as General Omar Santiago; and in both iterations of “The X-Files” and the first movie. However, it was his role as John Locke on “Lost” that brought him significant fame, earning him a Saturn Award and several nominations. Since then, he has been seen on shows such as “The Blacklist,” “Hawaii Five-0,” “FBI: Most Wanted,” and “The Walking Dead: Those Who Live.

Patrick Wayne as Pat Garrett

In the movie “Young Guns,” Patrick Wayne appears as Pat Garrett on just two occasions, yet he leaves a lasting impact both times. The initial encounter between Pat and Billy is friendly, almost cordial. However, when Pat visits Billy later, it’s not under ordinary circumstances; instead, it’s a more perilous situation. While “Young Guns” concludes with the claim that Pat Garrett eventually killed Billy the Kid, Patrick Wayne doesn’t reappear in the sequel, so we’ll save that part of the story for another day and another star.

Patrick Wayne, son of the renowned actor John Wayne, frequently collaborated with his father on various projects from the 1950s through the 1970s. However, as the movie “Young Guns” hit the screens, Wayne’s acting career started to decline. He featured in films like “Her Alibi” alongside Tom Selleck, some lesser-known titles, and television shows such as “Kung Fu: The Legend Continues,” “Alfred Hitchcock Presents,” and the soap opera “All My Children.” After his last dramatic role in 1997’s “Deep Cover,” Wayne moved away from acting. Instead, he now focuses on the John Wayne Cancer Institute, which was renamed Saint John’s Cancer Institute in 2021.

William Petersen as Pat Garrett

As a gamer, let me rephrase that for you: In the follow-up game, “Young Guns II”, they couldn’t get Kevin Costner back, so Pat Garrett was recast with William Petersen stepping into the role. Now that I’ve been elected sheriff of Lincoln County, I can no longer tolerate Billy’s reckless behavior. The sequel reveals that I used to be a Regulator just like him and share a deep bond. However, under the orders of New Mexico Governor Lew Wallace (Scott Wilson), I’m forced to betray my friend Billy. The game leaves it open-ended as to what truly happens at the end, with me seemingly killing Billy, but his fate remains unclear.

After his role in “Young Guns II,” William Petersen appeared in various films like the romantic comedy “Hard Promises” (1992), the ensemble comedy “Passed Away” (1993), and the 1996 drama “Fear,” alongside Mark Wahlberg and Reese Witherspoon. He also portrayed Gideon Walker in “Return to Lonesome Dove,” John F. Kennedy in “The Rat Pack,” and Jack Hathaway in “The Contenders.” However, television audiences will likely recognize him most as Dr. Gil Grissom, a role he played for over a decade across multiple shows, including “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” and its spin-offs such as “Without a Trace,” the TV movie “CSI: Immortality,” and the short-lived 2021 sequel, “CSI: Vegas.

Christian Slater as Arkansas Dave Rudabaugh

In the sequel “Young Guns II,” the character “Arkansas” Dave Rudabaugh takes on the part of the character named “Dirty” Steve from the first film, who carries prejudice and violence with him wherever he goes. He’s particularly skilled in gunfights and, together with Billy the Kid, makes the Regulators almost invincible. However, their reign comes to an end when they are pursued by their former ally Pat Garrett. Despite surviving “Young Guns II,” Dave has a tragic fate: according to the epilogue, he was executed by beheading in Mexico. That’s unfortunate.

After his role in “Young Guns II”, Christian Slater continued to gain prominence throughout the 90s by featuring in significant films such as “Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves”, “Interview with a Vampire”, “True Romance”, “Broken Arrow”, “Very Bad Things”, and “Hard Rain”. Between his movie and TV roles, Slater has remained quite active. In the new millennium, he played Alex Donovan on “The Forgotten”, Oz on “Breaking In”, Joe’s father in the “Nymphomaniac” films, Deadshot in various DC Comics animated productions, and Mr. Robot on “Mr. Robot”. In recent years, he has appeared on shows like “Inside Job”, “Dr. Death”, “Dexter: Original Sin”, and lends his voice to the character of himself (in a sense) on “Archer”.

Alan Ruck as Hendry William French

In the latest group of law enforcers, Hendry William French – apparently modeled after real-life Regulators Henry Brown and Jim French – signs up, following the theft of his farm. Since John Chisum (portrayed by James Coburn) declines to offer aid, he aligns himself with Billy the Kid, who is the only one willing to do so. The sole new Regulator to make it through the movie, French departs at the conclusion of “Young Guns II,” concluding that a life of outlawry isn’t for him. It remains possible for Ruck to reappear in a potential “Young Guns 3.

As a devoted fan, I’ve always known Alan Ruck for his iconic role as Cameron Frye in “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.” However, what I’ve come to appreciate more over the years is the multitude of projects he’s been involved in beyond his teenage years. After stealing the show in “Young Guns II,” Ruck graced us with memorable performances in ’90s classics like “Speed,” “Twister,” and the thought-provoking “Star Trek: Generations.” Furthermore, he made recurring appearances on various shows throughout that decade, eventually teaming up with Charlie Sheen on “Spin City.” From there, Ruck’s talents were showcased in a wide array of productions, including “CSI,” M. Night Shyamalan’s “The Happening,” the supernatural “Exorcist” TV series, and the college-based comedy “Greek.” In 2018, Ruck took on a leading role as Connor Roy in HBO’s “Succession,” leaving many of us with a fresh perspective of his acting abilities.

Balthazar Getty as Tom O’Folliard

In the final installment of the new Regulators, the character Balthazar Getty portrays Tom O’Folliard, a youth captivated by tales of Billy the Kid and yearning to emulate him. Through Tom, Billy comes to understand the rowdy following he incites, and upon Tom’s demise, he must confront the chaos his friends have been drawn into due to his actions. Although Tom may seem insignificant as just a young boy aspiring to be like his hero gunslinger, he leaves an indelible mark on your viewing experience of “Young Guns II”.

Regarding Getty, it’s worth noting that he portrayed Ralph in “The Lord of the Flies” concurrently with the release of “Young Guns II”. Later on, he appeared in films like “Judge Dredd”, led by Sylvester Stallone, Oliver Stone’s “Natural Born Killers”, and several episodes of “Charmed” as Richard Montana. Following this, he was cast as Thomas Grace on “Alias” and Tommy on “Brothers & Sisters”. More recently, he has been seen in films such as “The Judge” with Robert Downey Jr., as well as Francis Ford Coppola’s “Megalopolis”.

2025-06-29 17:32