From the early 2000s to today, the residents of Stars Hollow continue to hold a special place in fans’ hearts. But what about the actors behind the iconic characters? Here’s where they are now.
Lauren Graham (Lorelai Gilmore)
Lauren Graham has remained a television powerhouse since Gilmore Girls. She starred in Parenthood (2010–2015) as Sarah Braverman, a bohemian single mother, and returned for the Netflix revival Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life in 2016. In addition to acting, Graham has also become a bestselling author, with works like Talking as Fast as I Can, which recounts her experiences on the show and her career.
Alexis Bledel (Rory Gilmore)
Alexis Bledel transitioned into critically acclaimed roles, earning an Emmy Award in 2017 for her portrayal of Emily/Ofglen in The Handmaid’s Tale. While she has stepped away from the spotlight in recent years, her performance in the Gilmore Girls revival reminded fans why she remains an essential figure in Hollywood.
Scott Patterson (Luke Danes)
Scott Patterson, beloved for his role as the grumpy yet kind-hearted diner owner Luke, continued acting in films like Saw IV and Saw V. More recently, Patterson launched a podcast, I Am All In, where he re-watches episodes of Gilmore Girls and shares behind-the-scenes insights with nostalgic fans.
Kelly Bishop (Emily Gilmore)
Already a celebrated actress before Gilmore Girls, Kelly Bishop has stayed active in television, with roles in The Good Wife and Bunheads, another project by Gilmore Girls creator Amy Sherman-Palladino. Known for her poise and talent, Bishop is also the author of The Third Gilmore Girl, reflecting on her time on the show.
Edward Herrmann (Richard Gilmore)
The late Edward Herrmann, who played the wise and gentle Richard Gilmore, passed away in 2014 due to brain cancer. His presence is deeply missed, but his legacy as a talented actor continues to be celebrated. His final appearances on film and television are a testament to his enduring charm.
Melissa McCarthy (Sookie St. James)
Melissa McCarthy has become one of Hollywood’s most successful actresses since Gilmore Girls. Known for her comedic roles in films like Bridesmaids and The Heat, she also earned an Oscar nomination for her dramatic performance in Can You Ever Forgive Me?. Despite her limited presence in the revival, McCarthy remains one of the most iconic alumni of the series.
Liza Weil (Paris Geller)
Liza Weil, who portrayed the intense and brilliant Paris, has thrived in television with a standout role as Bonnie Winterbottom in How to Get Away with Murder. She reprised her role in the Gilmore Girls revival, proving that Paris remains one of the most memorable characters in the series.
Keiko Agena (Lane Kim)
Keiko Agena has pursued a diverse career, appearing in shows like Shameless, 13 Reasons Why, and Prodigal Son. A fan favorite, Agena frequently connects with Gilmore Girls enthusiasts at conventions and events, keeping Lane Kim’s legacy alive.
Jared Padalecki (Dean Forester)
Jared Padalecki achieved major fame as Sam Winchester in Supernatural, which ran for an impressive 15 seasons. He now stars as the titular character in Walker, a reboot of Walker, Texas Ranger.
Milo Ventimiglia (Jess Mariano)
Milo Ventimiglia’s career soared after his role as Rory’s rebellious boyfriend Jess. His portrayal of Jack Pearson on This Is Us earned him several Emmy nominations and widespread acclaim. Despite his success, Ventimiglia often credits Gilmore Girls as a pivotal moment in his career.
Matt Czuchry (Logan Huntzberger)
Matt Czuchry found continued success on television, starring in the medical drama The Resident. Logan’s charm and complexity remain fan favorites, securing Czuchry’s place in Gilmore Girls history.
Adam Brody (Dave Rygalski)
Although Adam Brody’s stint as Lane’s boyfriend Dave was brief, he made a lasting impression. Brody found fame as Seth Cohen on The O.C. and continues to build a solid career with roles in comedy and drama, including the recent Netflix hit Nobody Wants This. He is married to actress Leighton Meester.
From Hollywood blockbusters to quiet creative pursuits, the cast of Gilmore Girls continues to leave their mark, each in their unique way. Stars Hollow may be a fictional town, but its residents—and the actors who brought them to life—remain unforgettable.
