Disney’s ‘Heavyweights’ Cast: Where Are They Now? Ben Stiller, Kenan Thompson and More

Heavyweights: A Look Back at the Cult Classic and Its Lasting Impact

In 1995, the world of comedy was forever changed with the release of Heavyweights, a Disney-produced film that has since become a cult classic. Directed by Steven Brill and starring a young Ben Stiller, Kenan Thompson, and a host of rising talents, the movie tells the story of a group of kids at a weight-loss camp taken over by the eccentric and manic fitness guru Tony Perkis, played by Ben Stiller. While it wasn’t an instant blockbuster, Heavyweights has carved out a special place in the hearts of many, thanks to its irreverent humor, relatable characters, and the chemistry of its cast.

Three decades after its release, the film’s legacy continues to resonate. In February 2025, Ben Stiller took to X (formerly Twitter) to celebrate the movie’s 30th anniversary. “Somehow, I don’t think this will be at the head of the Disney+ queue ever. In fact, I’m not sure they are aware they made it,” he quipped, reflecting on the film’s unexpected cult status. Stiller, who was still rising to fame at the time of the film’s release, called the experience “an incredibly fun summer in North Carolina 30 years ago,” adding the hashtag #Heavyweights. His nostalgia is shared by fans and cast alike, many of whom look back on the film with fond memories.

Ben Stiller’s Iconic Role as Tony Perkis

Ben Stiller’s portrayal of Tony Perkis is undeniably one of the standout elements of Heavyweights. Perkis, a hyper-competitive and bizarrely intense fitness enthusiast, takes over the weight-loss camp with disastrous results. Stiller’s over-the-top performance brought a level of energy and absurdity that made the character both terrifying and hilarious. His ability to balance comedy with a hint of menace helped make Perkis a memorable villain in the world of 90s comedy.

Stiller’s reflection on the film’s 30th anniversary highlights how Heavyweights was a pivotal moment in his career. At the time, Stiller was still building his reputation as a comedic actor and writer, having gained some recognition for his sketch comedy show The Ben Stiller Show. Heavyweights was one of his first major film roles, and it showcased his talent for playing eccentric characters—something he would later refine in films like Zoolander and Dodgeball.

The film also marked an early collaboration between Stiller and Judd Apatow, who would go on to become one of the most influential comedic minds of the 21st century. Apatow contributed to the film’s script, and his signature brand of humor—sharp, relatable, and slightly irreverent—can be seen in the movie’s dialogue and character development. It’s a testament to how Heavyweights served as a launching pad for some of the biggest names in comedy.

Kenan Thompson: From Camp Camper to Comedy Legend

Kenan Thompson, who played one of the campers in Heavyweights, also took to Instagram in February 2025 to celebrate the film’s milestone anniversary. “The history books will say this squad instilled a level of fear not yet known to man, and certainly not to @benstiller,” he joked, referring to the cast’s chemistry and the lasting impression of the movie. Thompson, who was just starting his career at the time, reflected on how fast time has flown. “THIRTY YEARS of #Heavyweights