In the early 2000s, Mean Girls became an instant cult classic, offering a hilariously sharp take on the tumultuous world of high school politics, but what happened to the talented ensemble cast that brought this teen comedy to life?
Fortunately for fans, the Plastics have kept us all up to date over the years.
In 2024 fans were delighted to see the OG cast reunite once again as they stepped onto the red carpet for the premiere of the new Mean Girls Musical. Not only were they posing with each other, but they also supported the new generation of cast stepping into iconic roles.
As we reminisce about the Burn Book, Plastics, and the infamous cafeteria map, we’re catching up with the Plastics and their fellow North Shore High School cohorts to see where they are today.
Spoiler alert: the Burn Book may be ancient history, but these actors are still making waves in the entertainment industry.
Related: Lindsay Lohan Wants to Do Another Mean Girls Sequel
Lindsay Lohan | Cady Heron
Lindsay Lohan, who portrayed the film’s central character, Cady Heron, has had a career trajectory as intriguing as her character’s transformation from a new kid on the block to a Plastic. After Mean Girls, Lindsay continued to make a name for herself in Hollywood, starring in several high-profile movies such as Freaky Friday and Herbie: Fully Loaded. However, she faced some personal and professional challenges in the years that followed, which drew significant media attention. In recent years, Lindsay has shifted her focus towards entrepreneurship and has been involved in various business ventures, including opening a beach club in Mykonos, Greece. In July 2023 the actress and her husband Bader Shammas welcomed their first child, a son named Luai. She is also now officially back acting and is filming a sequel to her 2003 film Freaky Friday with Jamie Lee Curtis.
Does that mean a Mean Girls sequel could be next? Fingers crossed!
Rachel McAdams | Regina George
Rachel McAdams, known for her memorable portrayal of the quintessential mean girl Regina George, has since solidified herself as one of Hollywood’s most respected actresses. Following Mean Girls, she took on diverse roles in both independent and blockbuster films, showcasing her remarkable range, with performances in films like The Notebook, Spotlight, and Doctor Strange earning her critical acclaim and a loyal fan base. Today, she keeps her private live largely out of the public eye, but we do know she shares two children with her partner Jamie Linden.
Amanda Seyfried | Karen Smith
Amanda Seyfried, who portrayed the lovably ditzy Karen Smith in Mean Girls, has also enjoyed a thriving career in the entertainment world since her Plastics days. Following her breakout role, Seyfried’s talent and charisma propelled her to stardom and she has since delivered captivating performances in a wide range of projects, from musicals like Mamma Mia! to critically acclaimed films like Les Misérables. In 2017 the actress married Thomas Sadoski and the pair share two children together.
Lacey Chabert | Gretchen Wieners
Lacey Chabert, who charmed audiences as Gretchen Wieners in Mean Girls has continued to make her mark in the entertainment industry. Post-Mean Girls, the actress has lent her voice to several animated projects, most notably as the voice of Eliza Thornberry in the animated series The Wild Thornberrys. She’s also had a successful career in Hallmark Channel movies, becoming a beloved figure in the world of holiday-themed films. In 2013 Lacey married David Nehdar, a fellow actor and businessman and the two share a daughter together.
Jonathan Bennett | Aaron Samuels
Jonathan Bennett, who played the charming Aaron Samuels in Mean Girls, has maintained a notable presence in both the entertainment industry and popular culture. While he’s best known for his role in the film, he has appeared in several television series and movies, including hosting Food Network’s Cake Wars and participating in reality shows like Dancing with the Stars. Beyond his on-screen work, Jonathan has become a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, using his platform to raise awareness and promote inclusivity. In 2022 Jonathan married fellow actor Jaymes Vaughan.
Lizzy Caplan | Janis Ian
Lizzy Caplan, who portrayed the sharp-witted Janis Ian in Mean Girls, has carved out a unique and successful path in the entertainment industry. Following her standout role, Caplan continued to impress both critics and audiences alike with her versatile acting abilities. She took on roles in films such as Cloverfield and Now You See Me 2 and transitioned seamlessly into television, earning critical acclaim for her performances in series like Masters of Sex and Castle Rock. In 2017 Lizzy married English actor Tom Riley and the pair have one son, Alfie.
Daniel Franzese | Damian Leigh
Daniel Franzese, who brought the hilarious and openly gay character Damian Leigh to life in Mean Girls, has continued to make waves in both the entertainment industry and LGBTQ+ advocacy. Post-Mean Girls, Franzese has embraced his role as a prominent LGBTQ+ advocate, using his platform to raise awareness and promote inclusivity. He’s also continued his acting career, taking on a variety of roles in television and film. In 2020, Franzese began hosting a weekly comedy and faith podcast, Yass, Jesus!
Rajiv Surendra | Kevin Ghapoor
Rajiv Surendra, who delivered a memorable performance as the mathlete extraordinaire Kevin Gnapoor in Mean Girls, has taken a fascinating and unexpected career path since his iconic role. Following the film, Surendra explored a variety of creative pursuits, including calligraphy and woodworking. He even wrote a memoir titled The Elephants in My Backyard, sharing his journey and experiences in the entertainment industry. While his acting career took a back seat, Rajiv’s artistic endeavours and storytelling have allowed him to connect with audiences in unique and inspiring ways and most recently Rajiv has shared calligraphy and handwriting courses on YouTuve.
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