Molly Ringwald
In 1984, director John Hughes cast 16-year-old Ringwald as the lead in 'Sixteen Candles,' instantly making her a teen icon and the face of his coming-of-age films. The collaboration continued with 'The Breakfast Club' and 'Pretty in Pink,' defining 1980s teen cinema. She became the most recognizable member of the so-called 'Brat Pack.'
A Musical Childhood
Ringwald grew up in California as the daughter of a blind jazz musician. She began performing on stage and recording music before she ever appeared on screen.
Hughes's Muse
Her trio of John Hughes films made her the definitive teen heroine of the 1980s. Audiences saw their own adolescence reflected in her relatable, vulnerable characters.
Beyond the Brat Pack
Ringwald later worked in French cinema, wrote books, and returned to television. She has reflected thoughtfully on her early fame and its place in pop culture.
Career Timeline
- 1968Born in Roseville, California
- 1973Stage debut as a child performer
- 1979Television role on 'The Facts of Life'
- 1982Film debut in 'Tempest'
- 1984Lead role in 'Sixteen Candles'
- 1985Stars in 'The Breakfast Club'
- 1986Stars in 'Pretty in Pink'
- 1986Appears on the cover of Time magazine
- 1990Moves to France to work in European film
- 2008Joins ABC Family series 'The Secret Life'
- 2018Recurring role on Netflix's 'Riverdale'
Biggest Hits
- Ringwald released a jazz album with her musician father's band as a young child.
- She appeared on the cover of Time magazine in 1986 as the face of teen cinema.
Portrait: Philip Romano · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons