Sixteen Candles was released on May 4, 1984, and became an instant teen classic. The coming-of-age comedy follows a young girl named Samantha, who is turning 16. Due to the fuss over her sister’s upcoming wedding, Sam’s loved ones forget all about her birthday. Sam pines for the handsome and popular Jake Ryan, who is more than just your typical jock. Meanwhile, Sam also must handle being the apple of nerdy Ted’s eye. Molly Ringwald starred as Sam Baker in Sixteen Candles. The movie was her first collaboration with director and writer John Hughes. Sixteen Candles also starred Michael Schoeffling, Anthony Michael Hall, Blanche Baker, Haviland Morris, Gedde Watanabe, John Cusack, and more. Since the movie’s release, most of the cast has gone on to have successful Hollywood careers. However, the actor who played the Jake Ryan left acting altogether. See the cast of Sixteen Candles then and now as the film celebrates its 37th anniversary.