Introduction
The long-awaited cast reveal for That ’90s Show, the Netflix sequel to That ’70s Show, finally arrived, offering fans both nostalgic callbacks and a fresh generation of characters to follow. With a creative blend of legacy stars and new faces, the ensemble promises to bridge the show’s past and present. Here’s a comprehensive look at who’s joining the Forman family basement this time around.
Who’s Who: The Legacy Characters Return
Debra Jo Rupp and Kurtwood Smith reprise their iconic roles as Kitty and Red Forman. Their return anchors the new series with familiar authority and warmth, reassuring longtime viewers that the spirit of Point Place remains intact .
The original cast also makes notable guest appearances. Topher Grace returns as Eric Forman, now a dad living in Chicago; Laura Prepon reprises Donna Pinciotti; Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher appear as Jackie Burkhart and Michael Kelso; and Wilmer Valderrama reprises Fez .
However, those returns come with caveats: Valderrama does not return for Season 2, citing a busy schedule filming NCIS, though he expressed pride in the expansion of the younger cast . Similarly, Kunis and Kutcher confirmed they won’t appear in Season 2, noting that their roles were primarily to introduce their on-screen son and transition the story to the next generation .
The Next Generation: New Faces Taking Center Stage
Leading the new era is Callie Haverda, who plays Leia Forman—Eric and Donna’s daughter—spending summer with her grandparents in Point Place .
Leia’s summer companions make up a lively cast of newcomers:
- Ashley Aufderheide as Gwen Runck, the rebellious next-door neighbor with a punk edge and a heart of gold .
- Mace Coronel as Jay Kelso, Kelso and Jackie’s charismatic son, offering charm and teenage mischief .
- Reyn Doi as Ozzie Takada, the quick-witted, slightly cynical tech-savvy friend who brings insight and honesty to the group .
- Sam Morelos as Nikki, smart and driven, aiming for college while dealing with typical teenage dilemmas .
- Maxwell Acee Donovan as Nate, Nikki’s boyfriend and Gwen’s brother—nice, supportive, and a bit undeveloped at first glance .
- Andrea Anders plays Sherri Runck, Gwen and Nate’s flighty but caring mother .
Together, these characters form a new basement crew shaping the summer of 1995 in Point Place.
Cast Dynamics & Character Interplay
The dynamic sets up a familiar formula: Leia enters as the outsider but quickly finds her place among new friends. Gwen, with her confident attitude and musical edge, immediately connects with Leia; Jay gives teenage romance its space; Nikki grounds the group in ambition; and Ozzie offers sharp commentary—tying humor and frankness together .
Meanwhile, Red and Kitty serve as anchors of the past, offering sage, sometimes gruff guidance. Kitty welcomes the new generation with open arms while Red dusts off his old-school parenting, now turned to teenage grandchildren .
Guest Stars & Cameo Appearances
In addition to the core legacy cast, That ’90s Show brings back several That ’70s Show favorites in guest roles, including Tommy Chong as Leo and Don Stark as Bob Pinciotti . Season 2 further expands the guest roster with appearances from Seth Green, Carmen Electra, Kevin Smith, Jason Mewes, Will Forte, Kadeem Hardison, Wayne Knight, and Kira Kosarin as Betsy Kelso , enriching the adult world around the new teen cast.
Why It Matters: Nostalgia Meets Fresh Energy
What stands out in this cast reveal is the intentional blend of old and new. Legacy characters provide emotional continuity. New characters carry the story forward, offering fresh perspectives while honoring the original show’s tone and humor.
The absence of certain original cast members in Season 2—Valderrama, Kunis, and Kutcher—signals a clear handover: the show pivoted from legacy homage toward becoming its own teenage-centered comedy. Fans may feel nostalgic absence, but it underscores confidence in the new ensemble .
What’s Next to Watch For
As Season 2 unfolds, it’ll be pivotal to see how:
- The new millennials—the core cast—continue to evolve without constant nods to the past.
- Red and Kitty navigate their roles as grandparent chaperones.
- Viewers respond to a deeper focus on the younger generation’s stories.
- Guest star appearances integrate organically with the emerging teen narratives.
Season 2’s split release—Part 1 premiered June 27, 2024, Part 2 dropped August 22, 2024—before the series was canceled in October 2024, adds context to production and viewer engagement .
Final Thoughts
“This show now belongs to the younger generation,” said Fez actor Wilmer Valderrama, and that shift is central to what That ’90s Show is becoming .
With a multi-generational cast, the show balances homage with independence. Viewers join Leia and her friends in rediscovering the familiar basement from fresh angles. The cast reveal sets clear expectations: this is not a retread but a reboot with heart—ready to stand on its own.
The real story lies ahead as the new cast defines what a ’90s reboot can achieve.
