Remember '80s Actor Lea Thompson? What The Back To The Future Star Looks Like Now

It's hard to believe that the first "Back to the Future" film premiered over 40 years ago in 1985, but it's become such a huge part of pop culture that fans everywhere still reference the time-traveling flick. And looking at pics of star Lea Thompson now, it's hard to tell any time has passed at all.

While Thompson was already a working actor, her role as Lorraine McFly (née Baines) made her a huge breakout star. She was just in her early 20s at the time, but because of the time jumps, viewers see a 17-year-old and 47-year-old version of the character. "It's interesting, because my character got to be 17, 47, and 77, so people are used to me getting older. It's hilarious that I've been playing the mother of a 17-year-old for 40 years!" she told Woman's World in March 2026. Although there are many famous '80s actors who are practically unrecognizable now, Thompson, who turned 65 in 2026, still bears a resemblance to Lorraine. 

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Without the brown wig her character wore in "Back to the Future," you can clearly see Thompson went in on the copper-colored hair trend with gorgeous auburn strands. While at the Gracie Awards in May 2026, the mom of two had her bob styled in large waves swept away from her face, emphasizing her striking features. Thompson played up her brown eyes with dark liner and just a hint of brown shadow. Her skin looked impeccable, with dewy foundation and rosy blush, and it's all thanks to a healthy lifestyle and a positive attitude.

Proving to be a chameleon on the red carpet, Lea Thompson arrived at the premiere of "Anna Pigeon" in August 2026 with slightly tousled hair featuring some blond highlights. There was still a hint of red, but some brown strands peeked through. Her makeup was yet again so soft and gorgeous, and she clearly didn't need much to look camera-ready. Thompson's secret? Beverly Hills MD products, as she shared with Woman's World, "My skin is really sensitive, and it's been hard for me to find a skincare routine that doesn't inflame it. I actually hadn't done a lot of skincare until finding these products." She added, "In getting older, the best thing to do is try to be as healthy and happy as possible, and take little steps to take care of your body. It's not just about how you look on the outside, it's also about what you project and how you feel."

When she's not working, Thompson keeps her face glowing with clean skin and lots of fresh air. While sharing an Instagram video in October 2026, she proved to be a celeb in her 60s who looks stunning without makeup and isn't afraid to show it. Her skin had a bit of natural rosiness to it, but it looked smooth, and her red hair was free of any products. Thompson's positivity also shone through with her message to fans: "We have to take care of each other. We have to learn how to love each other." And that is one of the most beautiful things about the '80s star, aside from her gorgeous looks.