Jeff Cohen, forever remembered as Chunk from The Goonies, became an ’80s icon with his Hawaiian shirt and unforgettable Truffle Shuffle. But the real story behind the actor is far more surprising. Born Jeffrey Bertan McMahon in 1974, he later adopted the last name “Cohen” from his mother after his parents separated. Before landing his famous role, he appeared in several TV shows, including Child’s Play and Body Language. During The Goonies, he secretly filmed scenes while recovering from chickenpox, determined not to lose the part.
After the film’s success, Cohen’s acting career abruptly stalled when puberty drastically changed his appearance. He later joked, “I didn’t give up acting — acting gave me up.” With roles disappearing, he shifted his focus to school, sports, and eventually college at UC Berkeley, where he played football briefly and became a well-known personality on campus.
Throughout this transition, director Richard Donner remained a strong mentor. Donner even paid for Cohen’s college tuition and encouraged him to consider the business side of entertainment. This support helped guide Cohen toward a new path behind the scenes.
Cohen continued his education, earning degrees from UC Berkeley and UCLA Law. He later co-founded the law firm Cohen & Gardner LLP, becoming a respected entertainment attorney. His office soon filled with gifts and notes from major figures like Steven Spielberg and Donner, reflecting his deep Hollywood connections.
As his legal career grew, Cohen earned recognition on industry “Top Executive” lists. Despite leaving acting, he maintained close friendships with former castmates, especially Ke Huy Quan.
In a full-circle moment, Cohen negotiated Quan’s contract for Everything Everywhere All at Once, contributing to Quan’s remarkable comeback. During his Oscar acceptance speech, Quan thanked him warmly as “my Goonies brother for life.”
Now 51, Jeff Cohen has built a career that rivals — and arguably surpasses — his childhood fame. His journey shows how reinvention, resilience, and the right support can turn a former child star into a respected industry leader.
Cohen’s story remains a testament to finding success long after the spotlight fades.
