The Goldbergs Cast: Then And Now

Hugo van Dijk

5 min read

Post on May 21, 2025

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Wendi McLendon-Covey as Beverly Goldberg: From Then to Now

Wendi McLendon-Covey's portrayal of the fiercely protective and overbearing Beverly Goldberg is arguably one of the show's most iconic elements. Her comedic timing and ability to portray both Beverly's loving and intensely irritating sides have made her a fan favorite. But how has her character evolved throughout the series, and what has McLendon-Covey been up to since those early Goldbergs days?

• Beverly Goldberg's Evolution: Initially presented as a somewhat caricatured, smothering mother, Beverly has gradually revealed layers of depth and vulnerability. We've seen her struggle with her own insecurities, her intense love for her family, and her sometimes misguided attempts to control their lives. This evolution has added significant complexity to the character, making her more relatable and endearing, even in her most outrageous moments.

• McLendon-Covey's Career Beyond The Goldbergs: Before her breakout role as Beverly, McLendon-Covey had already established herself as a talented actress with appearances in films like Bridesmaids and television shows such as Reno 911! and Rules of Engagement. Since The Goldbergs, she's continued to work steadily, appearing in movies like The House Bunny and Single Moms Club and voicing characters in animated series.

• Awards and Recognition: While McLendon-Covey hasn't received major awards specifically for The Goldbergs, her consistently strong performance has contributed significantly to the show's success and garnered critical praise.

Jeff Garlin as Murray Goldberg: His Journey On and Off Screen

Jeff Garlin's portrayal of the gruff, sarcastic, yet ultimately loving patriarch Murray Goldberg is another cornerstone of the show. His deadpan delivery and perfectly timed comedic timing perfectly capture the essence of the 80s father. However, his departure from The Goldbergs was a significant event that impacted both the show and the actor’s career.

• Murray Goldberg's Defining Traits: Murray Goldberg is characterized by his gruff exterior, his cynical worldview, and his unconventional ways of showing affection. His relationship with Beverly is complex and often hilarious, forming a core dynamic for the series. He’s the ultimate flawed but lovable dad.

• Garlin's Post-Goldbergs Career: Jeff Garlin is a prolific comedian and actor with a long and distinguished career before and after The Goldbergs. He's known for his stand-up comedy, appearances in films like Ocean's Eleven, and other television roles. His departure from The Goldbergs came under some controversy but hasn’t significantly hindered his continued work in the entertainment industry.

• The Impact of His Departure: Garlin's absence from The Goldbergs was felt by fans and creators alike. The show acknowledged his departure in creative ways, showing the impact his character's absence had on the Goldberg family dynamics.

Sean Giambrone as Adam Goldberg: Growing Up Before Our Eyes

Sean Giambrone's journey as Adam Goldberg is a testament to his talent and the show’s ability to capture the essence of adolescence. Watching him grow up on screen has been a remarkable aspect of the series, highlighting his impressive range as an actor.

• Adam Goldberg's Character Arc: Adam's evolution from a nerdy, camera-obsessed child to a young adult facing the complexities of love, friendship, and self-discovery has been a compelling storyline. His journey is relatable to many who grew up in the 80s and beyond.

• Giambrone's Career Trajectory: Giambrone's performance as Adam Goldberg established him as a talented young actor. While he has largely focused on his Goldbergs role, his dedication and skill are apparent in his portrayal of Adam’s character development over the years. This provides a strong foundation for future roles.

• Personal Life (briefly): While respecting Giambrone’s privacy, his successful journey as a child actor transitioning into adulthood has been largely positive, and he appears to be navigating his professional and personal life with grace.

The Rest of the Goldberg Family: Then and Now

Beyond the core trio, The Goldbergs boasts a talented ensemble cast. Let's briefly examine the journeys of Erica, Barry, and Pops Goldberg (and other recurring characters).

• Erica Goldberg (Hayley Orrantia): Erica’s evolution from a somewhat bratty younger sister to a more mature and independent young woman showcases Orrantia's acting prowess. Since The Goldbergs, she's explored music alongside her acting career.

• Barry Goldberg (Troy Gentile): Barry’s journey, marked by his often awkward and funny attempts at navigating adolescence and beyond, demonstrates Gentile's ability to portray endearingly clumsy characters. He's continued acting since The Goldbergs, taking on roles in movies and other TV shows.

• Pops Goldberg (George Segal/Sam McMurray): The role of the beloved Grandpa "Pops" Goldberg was initially played by the late George Segal, whose presence brought warmth and humor. Following his passing, the character was reimagined with Sam McMurray carrying on the legacy.

• Other Notable Cast Members: The Goldberg family's supporting cast, including aunts, uncles, friends, and neighbors, also contributed significantly to the show's success, with many actors moving on to other promising roles in the industry.

Conclusion

The cast of The Goldbergs has not only entertained audiences for years but has also demonstrated significant individual growth and success. From Wendi McLendon-Covey's comedic brilliance as Beverly to Sean Giambrone's remarkable portrayal of Adam's coming-of-age story and the memorable characters portrayed by the rest of the ensemble, The Goldbergs has launched or furthered the careers of a talented group of actors. Their journeys—both on and off screen—are a testament to the enduring appeal of the show and the exceptional talent of its performers.

Keep up with your favorite The Goldbergs cast members: then and now! Share your favorite The Goldbergs memories and cast member moments in the comments below!