**Starship Troopers (1997) Cast: Who Passed Away After 28 Years – What Happened?**
Starship Troopers (1997) is a cult classic that left a lasting mark on sci-fi cinema. Nearly three decades later, fans still remember the film’s iconic cast—some of whom continued to shine in Hollywood, while others chose quieter lives. Here’s a look at the main cast members, their careers since, and those we’ve lost along the way.
**Neil Patrick Harris (Carl Jenkins)**
At 24, Neil Patrick Harris played the psychic intelligence officer Carl Jenkins. Now 52, Harris transformed his early fame into a stellar career, starring in “How I Met Your Mother” and becoming a beloved host and entertainer. He’s also known for his stable family life with husband David Burtka and their twins. Harris remains active and influential in Hollywood.
**Casper Van Dien (Johnny Rico)**
Casper Van Dien, then 28, became a sci-fi icon as Johnny Rico. Now 57, he’s continued acting in action films and TV, embracing his cult status. His personal life saw ups and downs, including a high-profile marriage and divorce, but he remains close to his children and active in the industry.
**Dina Meyer (Dizzy Flores)**
Dina Meyer, also 28 at the time, gave a memorable performance as Dizzy Flores. At 57, she’s built a steady career, notably in the “Saw” franchise and TV roles. Meyer keeps her private life out of the spotlight and is respected for her versatility.
**Jake Busey (Ace Levy)**
Jake Busey was 25 when he portrayed Ace Levy, the wisecracking squad member. Now 54, Busey has worked steadily in film and TV, carving out a niche as a reliable character actor. The son of Gary Busey, he’s spoken about the pressures of a Hollywood legacy but continues to thrive.
**Patrick Muldoon (Xander Barcalow)**
At 28, Patrick Muldoon played Rico’s rival Xander. Now 57, his career spans soap operas, music, and modeling. Muldoon keeps a lower profile but continues to act and perform with his band.
**Michael Ironside (Jean Rasczak)**
Michael Ironside, 47 during filming, brought gravitas as Rasczak. Now 75, he remains a fixture in sci-fi and action, with a prolific career in film, TV, and voice acting. Ironside is celebrated for his professionalism and longevity.
**Clancy Brown (Sergeant Zim)**
Clancy Brown, 38 in 1997, played the intimidating drill instructor Zim. At 66, he’s a respected actor and a legendary voice in animation, most famously as Mr. Krabs in “SpongeBob SquarePants.” Brown’s career and family life remain strong.
**Seth Gilliam (Sugar Watkins)**
Seth Gilliam, 28 then, is now 57 and best known for major roles in “The Wire” and “The Walking Dead.” His transformation from supporting player to TV star is a testament to his talent.
**Blake Lindsley (Katrina)**
Blake Lindsley, 23 at the time, is now 52 and has enjoyed a steady career in film, TV, and voice work. She’s also a Yale graduate and keeps her personal life private.
**Amy Smart (Pilot Cadet)**
Amy Smart was just 20 in her early film role. Now 49, she’s starred in hits like “The Butterfly Effect” and “Crank,” and is known for her environmental activism.
**Anthony Ruivivar (Shujimi)**
Anthony Ruivivar, 26 then, is now 55 and found TV success in “Third Watch” and other series. He’s worked consistently as an actor and producer.
**Brenda Strong (Captain Deladier)**
Brenda Strong, 37 in 1997, is now 65 and famous as the narrator of “Desperate Housewives.” She’s also a yoga instructor and fertility expert.
**Denise Richards (Carmen Ibanez)**
Denise Richards, 25 then, became a star through this film, “Wild Things,” and as a Bond girl. Now 54, she’s also known for her reality TV appearances and high-profile personal life.
**Marshall Bell (General Owen)**
Marshall Bell, 54 during filming, is now 83. He’s had a long, stable career as a character actor and is one of the few in the cast with a decades-long marriage.
**Eric Bruskotter (Breenridge)**
Eric Bruskotter, 30 then, is now 59 and has maintained a steady career, mostly in supporting roles, and kept his personal life private.
**Who Has Passed Away?**
As of 2026, most of the main Starship Troopers cast are still alive, continuing their careers or enjoying retirement. While some supporting actors and crew may have passed, the core cast remains a testament to the film’s enduring legacy. Their journeys—marked by reinvention, resilience, and transformation—mirror the spirit of the film itself, making “Starship Troopers” as memorable today as it was nearly 30 years ago.
