The Journey of Jeff Cohen: From Chunk to Entertainment Lawyer
For those who fondly recall the vibrant culture of the 1980s, the name Chunk instantly brings to mind the hilarious and endearing character from the beloved film The Goonies.
Dressed in his iconic Hawaiian shirt and famous for the unforgettable Truffle Shuffle, Chunk, portrayed by Jeff Cohen, was a pivotal part of the movie’s charm and magic.
However, the tale of Jeff Cohen extends far beyond the screen, revealing a profound transformation from a child actor to a successful entertainment lawyer. This journey not only highlights the challenges faced by child stars but also emphasizes the importance of adaptability and resilience in pursuing one’s passion.
A Humble Beginning
Jeffrey Bertan McMahon, better known as Jeff Cohen, was born on June 25, 1974, in Los Angeles, California. His childhood was marked by significant challenges, particularly following his parents’ separation when he was just a young boy.
In an effort to maintain a connection to his family legacy, he adopted his mother’s maiden name, “Cohen,” which would later become synonymous with one of the most beloved characters in cinematic history.
Before landing the iconic role of Chunk, Cohen appeared in various television shows, including Child’s Play and Body Language. These early experiences provided him with invaluable exposure to the entertainment industry, helping him develop the skills he would later utilize in both acting and law.
Becoming a Cultural Icon
In 1985, Jeff Cohen’s life took a dramatic turn when he was cast in The Goonies, directed by the talented Richard Donner. This film quickly became a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences with its adventurous spirit, memorable characters, and comedic moments.
Cohen’s portrayal of Chunk showcased his ability to bring humor and warmth to the character, making him an unforgettable part of the movie’s ensemble. Interestingly, Cohen filmed some of his scenes while battling chickenpox, an indication of his dedication and commitment to the role.
Despite the challenges he faced during production, his performance resonated with fans across generations, forever cementing his place in the hearts of moviegoers.
However, after the film’s massive success, Cohen encountered an unexpected hurdle: the trials of puberty led to a rapid decline in acting opportunities as he struggled to transition from child actor to young adult.
Shifting Career Focus
As acting opportunities began to dwindle, Jeff Cohen made a vital decision to redirect his focus towards education.
He often remarked with a mix of humor and realism, “I didn’t give up acting — acting gave me up.” This sentiment reflects the harsh realities many child stars face as they transition into adulthood, dealing with the pressures of growing up in the public eye.
Cohen dedicated himself to his studies, excelling in academics and sports during his high school years. His dedication paid off when he eventually enrolled at the prestigious University of California, Berkeley, where he pursued a degree in political science.
During his time at Berkeley, he also briefly played football, earning a reputation as a charismatic campus personality and continuing to foster relationships that would benefit him in the future.
A Mentor’s Influence
During his time at Berkeley, Jeff Cohen maintained a valuable connection with Richard Donner, the director who had given him his big break in The Goonies. Donner remained a mentor and supporter throughout Cohen’s academic journey, providing guidance and even assisting in funding his college tuition.
This gesture exemplifies the lasting bonds often formed in Hollywood, where shared experiences can lead to lifelong mentorships. Cohen’s exposure to the business side of the film industry during his studies ignited a new passion within him; he realized he wanted to explore the legal and business aspects of entertainment.
This newfound interest ultimately led him to pursue a law degree at UCLA, where he further honed his skills and knowledge of the industry, preparing himself for a successful career as an entertainment lawyer.
Building a New Career
After completing his legal education, Jeff Cohen co-founded Cohen & Gardner LLP, a law firm that specializes in representing individuals in the entertainment industry. His transition from actor to lawyer was not only successful but also remarkable, as he quickly became a prominent and respected figure in the field.
Under his leadership, Cohen’s firm garnered recognition, appearing on various industry “Top Executive” lists, a testament to his dedication, expertise, and innovative approach to legal representation. His office proudly displayed memorabilia from his past, including tokens from collaborations with legendary filmmakers such as Steven Spielberg and Richard Donner.
These items serve as a reminder of his journey, symbolizing the full circle he has achieved, from child star to legal professional.
A Full Circle Moment
In a poetic twist of fate, Jeff Cohen had the opportunity to negotiate an Oscar-winning role for his former co-star, Ke Huy Quan, in the critically acclaimed film Everything Everywhere All at Once.
During Quan’s heartfelt acceptance speech at the Academy Awards, he expressed deep gratitude towards Cohen, referring to him as “My Goonies brother for life.” This emotional moment underscored not only the enduring friendships formed during their early years in Hollywood but also highlighted Cohen’s successful navigation through the entertainment industry as a lawyer.
Now at age 51, Jeff Cohen exemplifies the idea that even those who leave the limelight can carve out fulfilling and impactful careers, proving that transformation is possible at any stage of life.
Today, Jeff Cohen stands as a symbol of resilience and adaptability, showcasing how one can reinvent themselves after navigating the complexities of childhood fame. He has seamlessly transitioned from a beloved child star to a respected entertainment lawyer, proving that one’s past does not dictate their future.
His story serves as an inspiration for many, illustrating that with determination, hard work, and the right guidance, it is possible to navigate life’s changes and emerge successful in new endeavors.
As Cohen reflects on his multifaceted journey, he embraces both his past as Chunk and his present as a legal professional, embodying the spirit of growth, transformation, and the importance of pursuing one’s passions, no matter where life leads.
