Molly Ringwald Movies and TV Shows Molly Ringwald is an iconic American actress, singer, and writer, known for her role in defining the “Brat Pack” era of the 1980s. Throughout her illustrious career, she has gained widespread recognition for her roles in both film and television. From her early days as a teen star to her more recent work in a variety of genres, Ringwald has shown her impressive versatility. Below is a comprehensive guide to her movies and TV shows.
Early Career and Breakthrough Roles
Molly Ringwald’s career began in the early 1980s, and she quickly became a teen sensation due to her standout performances in several successful films.
Sixteen Candles (1984)
Ringwald’s breakout role came in John Hughes’ Sixteen Candles (1984), where she played Samantha Baker, a high school girl struggling with her 16th birthday being overshadowed by her sister’s wedding. The film became a defining classic of 80s teen cinema and cemented Ringwald as a cultural icon.
The Breakfast Club (1985)
In one of the most famous teen dramas ever made, The Breakfast Club (1985), Ringwald starred as Claire Standish, a popular high school girl who is forced to spend a Saturday in detention with a group of misfits. This film explored the different social cliques in high school and became a cultural touchstone for teenagers.
Pretty in Pink (1986)
Another collaboration with John Hughes, Pretty in Pink (1986) featured Ringwald as Andie Walsh, a high school girl from a poor background who must navigate her love life and friendships while being caught in a romance with a wealthy boy. The movie’s themes of class and identity resonated with audiences and continues to be beloved by fans.
SpaceCamp (1986)
While not as famous as her previous films, SpaceCamp (1986) saw Ringwald take on a more adventurous role as a young girl attending a space camp that accidentally gets launched into space. The film was a sci-fi family adventure that showcased her ability to branch out into different genres.
Other 80s and Early 90s Films
Ringwald continued her career through the 1980s and into the 90s with a range of different roles, often playing characters that were relatable and complex for her audience.
The Pick up Artist (1987)
In The Pick-up Artist (1987), Ringwald starred alongside Robert Downey Jr., portraying a young woman who becomes the object of a charming but misguided man’s romantic interest. The film explored themes of love and manipulation in the dating world.
For Keeps (1988)
For Keeps (1988) was a departure from Ringwald’s usual teen-oriented roles, as she played a high school student who unexpectedly becomes pregnant. The film explored the realities of young motherhood and the challenges it brings.
Fresh Horses (1988)
In Fresh Horses (1988), Ringwald played a young woman who is caught in a love triangle with two men, both of whom offer her very different paths in life. The film delved into themes of love, commitment, and personal growth.
Strike It Rich (1990)
This comedy featured Ringwald as a young woman who, along with her friends, wins the lottery. The movie dealt with themes of sudden wealth and how it affects relationships and life decisions.
Transition to Television
In the mid-90s, Molly Ringwald began transitioning into television roles, a shift that allowed her to diversify her career.
Townies (1996)
Ringwald starred in Townies (1996), a short-lived sitcom about a group of young adults living in a small town. Though the show was canceled after one season, it gave Ringwald a chance to show her comedic chops in a TV setting.
The Secret Life of the American Teenager (2008-2013)
One of Ringwald’s most notable TV roles came in The Secret Life of the American Teenager (2008-2013), where she played Anne Juergens, a mother dealing with the complexities of raising a teenager while also grappling with her own past. The series focused on teenage pregnancy and relationships, and Ringwald’s role was central to its dramatic narrative. This series garnered a large following and showed that Ringwald could still connect with a younger audience.
More Recent Film and TV Roles
Ringwald has continued to make appearances in both film and television, maintaining a presence in the industry and experimenting with new roles.
The Kissing Booth 2 (2020)
In The Kissing Booth 2 (2020), Ringwald played the role of the mother of the main character, adding a bit of nostalgia to the film for fans of her 80s films. This was part of the popular Netflix teen romance series, which drew significant attention from younger audiences.
Riverdale (2017-2023)
Another key role came when Ringwald joined the cast of Riverdale (2017-2023), the dark reimagining of the Archie Comics. She portrayed Mary Andrews, the mother of Archie, and became part of the popular show’s complex family dynamics. Her role in Riverdale allowed Ringwald to tap into the current teen drama craze, while also giving her a nostalgic connection to the genre.
Imperfect High (2021)
In this teen-focused drama, Ringwald plays a pivotal role as the adult character helping to guide younger characters through complex issues of self-identity and relationships.
Molly Ringwald Recent Film Ventures
Molly Ringwald is a name that evokes memories of ’80s teen classics like The Breakfast Club, Sixteen Candles, and Pretty in Pink. But in recent years, the actress has taken on a range of distinctive roles that showcase her versatility and growth as an artist. As she continues to evolve in Hollywood, here’s a look at some of her more recent film ventures, each of which presents a unique take on her talents.
Riverdale (2017–present)
Although not strictly a movie, her role as Mary Andrews in the hit TV series Riverdale is an important part of Ringwald’s more recent career. Playing the mother of Archie Andrews, Molly has demonstrated a more mature, nuanced side of her acting, exploring complex family dynamics in a darker, more dramatic setting. The show, based on characters from Archie Comics, has offered Ringwald a chance to showcase her range, stepping away from her ’80s teen roles and into a role that mixes mystery with family drama.
The Kissing Booth 2 (2020)
In this Netflix teen comedy, Ringwald reprised her role as the mother of Elle Evans (Joey King), adding another layer of warmth and support in a teen-oriented story. Though The Kissing Booth franchise is primarily about the romantic entanglements of the younger characters, Ringwald’s portrayal of a wise and supportive mother figure resonates with many viewers, bringing a touch of maturity to the otherwise youthful narrative.
All These Small Moments (2018)
In this indie drama, Ringwald plays the mother of a teenage boy (Brendan Meyer) navigating the challenges of adolescence. The film itself is a contemplative exploration of personal growth, relationships, and family dynamics. While this film was relatively under the radar, Ringwald’s role offers a nuanced performance that touches on the complications of raising children, reflecting a more grounded and introspective approach to motherhood.
Breakfast Club Director Cut Special Editions
In 2020, Ringwald participated in the special director’s cut of The Breakfast Club, where she revisited the iconic role of Claire Standish. This new release allowed fans to experience the film in a different format, and Ringwald’s reflections and discussions of the film’s enduring legacy showed her continued connection to the role that defined her career. Though not a traditional “new” project, this was a notable way for her to engage with her past in a fresh light.
The Secret Life of the American Teenager (2008-2013)
While this TV series may not be as recent, it marked a significant phase in Ringwald’s career, as she played Anne Juergens, a mother dealing with the consequences of teenage pregnancy. The show, which dealt with issues of relationships, growing up, and family, further established Ringwald as a relatable and authoritative figure in family-based dramas. Her portrayal of Anne was both empathetic and emotionally intelligent, offering a deeper look at a more mature version of the characters she had previously portrayed in teen comedies.
King Cobra (2016)
One of her more unconventional roles, Ringwald starred alongside James Franco and Christian Slater in this true-crime film about the rise and fall of a gay porn star. Molly’s role was a departure from the typical teen films of her earlier career, showcasing her range as an actress willing to take risks with edgier, more mature content. King Cobra dives into the seedy underworld of the adult film industry, and Ringwald’s portrayal adds a layer of complexity to a highly provocative story.
Conclusion An Evolving Career
Molly Ringwald’s recent film and television roles reflect a distinct departure from her ’80s teen idol status. With each new project, she’s proven that she is more than just the quintessential girl next door. From quirky comedies to deeper, more introspective dramas, Ringwald’s career has evolved in ways that defy expectations. Whether she’s playing a mother, a supportive figure, or a completely unexpected character, her ability to adapt to diverse roles continues to make her a standout in the entertainment industry.
Molly Ringwald Net Worth
As of 2025, Molly Ringwald‘s net worth is estimated to be around $11 million. She is a renowned American actress, singer, and writer, best known for her roles in classic 1980s films like Sixteen Candles, The Breakfast Club, and Pretty in Pink. Ringwald also expanded her career into television, theater, and writing, contributing to her overall wealth.
Her earnings have come from her acting career, book deals, and her work as a musician. Additionally, Molly Ringwald has made money from various endorsement deals, appearances, and her active presence in the entertainment industry.
Molly Ringwald Social Acounts
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Conclusion
Molly Ringwald’s career is marked by a blend of iconic teen movies, dramatic television roles, and a versatile exploration of different genres. She remains a beloved figure from the 1980s, with her work continuing to resonate with audiences across generations. From Sixteen Candles to Riverdale, Ringwald’s career showcases her talent and enduring relevance in both film and television. Whether playing a teenager dealing with high school dilemmas or an adult navigating the complexities of family life, she has proven time and again that she is one of Hollywood’s most beloved and versatile actresses.