Fast Times - Cast

Cast

The show, originally broadcast on CBS, stars Claudia Wells (Back to the Future) as Linda Barrett (portrayed by Phoebe Cates in the film). Courtney Thorne-Smith (Melrose Place) played Stacy Hamilton (portrayed by Jennifer Jason Leigh in the film), James Nardini played her brother Brad (portrayed by Judge Reinhold in the film). Wally Ward played Mark Ratner (portrayed by Brian Backer in the film) and Patrick Dempsey (Grey's Anatomy) played his older buddy, Mike Damone (portrayed by Robert Romanus in the film). Dean Cameron took up the role as surfer Jeff Spicoli (played by Sean Penn in the film). Ray Walston (history teacher Mr. Hand) and Vincent Schiavelli (biology teacher Mr. Vargas) reprise their roles from the classic film.

Jeff Spicoli is the center of certain plots throughout the show's short run. In the pilot episode, Mr. Hand bets that Spicoli will screw up his class presentation. In the episode "The Last Laugh", Spicoli accepts a challenge to make Mr. Hand laugh. In "The Engagement", he starts a rumour that Mr. Hand lost an eye during World War II. Since the television spinoff is toned down for younger viewers, there is no reference to Jeff Spicoli's drug usage. The show however makes references to his truancy when he shows up to Mr. Hand's class one period late. One day, he surprises Mr. Hand when he shows up early to class due to a "gnarly shark attack". His lack of money is also referenced when he tries to pay for a pizza where Linda and Stacy work (he takes some change and his brother's tooth out of his pocket).