In the mid-1980s, audiences were introduced to a memorable young character in the adventure film The Goonies. Played by Jeff Cohen, the character “Chunk” quickly became a pop-culture favorite thanks to his humor, distinctive style, and the unforgettable “Truffle Shuffle” moment that fans still recall today. Behind the scenes, however, Cohen’s journey into the role involved dedication and determination. Born Jeffrey Bertan McMahon in 1974, he later adopted his mother’s surname after his parents separated and continued pursuing acting opportunities through television appearances before landing the role that made him widely recognized.
As happens to many young performers, the transition from childhood fame to adulthood brought unexpected changes. After the film’s success, Cohen’s acting opportunities gradually declined as he grew older and his appearance changed. Instead of focusing solely on Hollywood, he turned his attention toward education and personal development. During his college years at the University of California, Berkeley, he explored new interests, participated in campus activities, and began considering professional paths beyond acting.
An important influence during this period was the mentorship of director Richard Donner, who had worked closely with Cohen on The Goonies. Donner encouraged him to think about the business side of the entertainment world and supported his academic goals. Motivated by that guidance, Cohen continued his studies and later earned a law degree from UCLA School of Law. This step opened the door to a new career connected to the industry he had once entered as a child actor.
Today, Cohen is widely respected as an entertainment attorney and co-founder of Cohen & Gardner LLP, where he represents creative professionals and production companies. While he no longer acts on screen, he remains connected to his Hollywood roots and longtime friendships from the film community. His story illustrates how careers can evolve in unexpected ways and how early experiences, combined with education and mentorship, can lead to meaningful success long after the spotlight of childhood fame fades.