Judd Nelson, the 80s heartthrob best remembered for his role as the rebellious John Bender in The Breakfast Club, was recently spotted in Los Angeles sporting a drastically different look. Now 64, the actor, once known for his rugged charm, was seen running errands with a buzzed haircut and a long gray beard—a stark contrast to his youthful image. His portrayal of Bender, the “criminal” of the high school detention group, remains an enduring symbol of teen rebellion, particularly the film’s iconic ending, where he triumphantly raises his fist in the air.

Nelson’s breakout role in The Breakfast Club catapulted him to fame and led to another 80s cult classic, St. Elmo’s Fire, where he played Alec Newbury. During this time, he became associated with the “Brat Pack,” a group of young actors dominating Hollywood. He expanded his career with diverse roles, lending his voice to The Transformers: The Movie and earning critical acclaim for the documentary Dear America: Letters Home from Vietnam. His performance in the television film Billionaire Boys Club even earned him a Golden Globe nomination, further proving his range as an actor.

As the 90s arrived, Nelson continued to explore different roles in both film and television. He starred in New Jack City and Light It Up, while also making a successful transition to TV with Suddenly Susan, where he acted alongside Brooke Shields. However, after departing the show, his career shifted toward television films, Hallmark projects, and voice acting. This phase of his career marked a departure from his 80s “bad boy” persona, as he embraced a more varied selection of roles.

Born in Maine and raised in a conservative Jewish home, Nelson’s early years in acting were shaped by method acting training under Stella Adler. His commitment to fully immersing himself in a role reportedly led to tension on the set of The Breakfast Club, particularly with director John Hughes. However, despite any on-set challenges, his raw and charismatic performance in the film became a defining moment in pop culture, cementing The Breakfast Club as a timeless coming-of-age classic.

Nelson’s recent sighting serves as a reminder of his lasting impact on Hollywood and his transformation over the years. While his role as John Bender remains iconic, his career has spanned multiple genres, from teen dramas to voice acting and television films. His evolution from a rebellious 80s heartthrob to a seasoned actor reflects a dynamic and enduring career, proving that his influence on entertainment continues to this day.