
Photo: Tristar
Tom Cruise had America hooked way before he delivered his famous “You complete me” line to Renee Zellweger in “Jerry Maguire.” But for a lot of the film’s other stars, “Jerry Maguire” was their big break.
Its hard to believe it has been fifteen years since we watched the sports agent flip out and start a new life and career with the world’s most precocious kid by his side. Several stars of this film have continued to impress audiences, while others, well, not so much.
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Cuba Gooding, Jr. as Rod Tidwell
THEN: As semi-washed up and difficult to work with football player Rod Tidwell, Cuba Gooding, Jr. put on an Academy Award winning performance. He also proved that he has some serious dance moves.
NOW: Gooding, Jr. has worked consistently since “Jerry Maguire,” starring in emotional films such as “Radio” and “Men of Honor”and dramas such as “American Gangster” alongside Denzel Washington. But “Jerry Maguire” remains his main claim to fame. Gooding, Jr. has wrapped up filming on two new movies, both scheduled to be released in 2012.

Photo: Ryan Caliendo, PacificCoastNews.com
Jonathan Lipnicki as Ray Boyd
THEN: There may be no cuter movie character than Lipnicki’s Ray Boyd, a super smart and precocious son of single mother, played by Rene Zellweger. Lipnicki assumed the role with ease and charm, luring Jerry into his mother’s life (in good and bad ways). Because of him, few will forget how much the human head weighs, or that dogs and bees can smell fear.
NOW: Lipnicki followed his role in “Jerry Maguire” with some family friendly films and TV series, but then left Hollywood for a few years. Although he’s easing his way back into TV with roles on “Monk” and movies (he’s recently wrapped production on two projects), Lipnicki’s current love seems to be mixed martial arts. With that physique, he could play Cuba Gooding, Jr.’s role if they ever do a “Maguire” remake.

Photo: Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images
Renee Zellweger as Dorothy Boyd
THEN: Although Zellweger had been acting for several years, her performance as Dorothy Boyd was her breakout role. (Unless you count “Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Next Generation,” as some do.) Dorothy gave up all security for herself and her son by following a dream — and a dude — when Jerry walks out of the agency. But in the end, she really does complete him.
NOW: Zellweger has been one of the most sought after actresses in Hollywood since Jerry Maguire, starring in the successful “Bridget Jones” series, singing and dancing in “Chicago,” and winning an Oscar for her performance in “Cold Mountain.”