![Surviving Cast Members of Diff’rent Strokes 2 l intro 1716311148](https://i0.wp.com/theubj.com/uae/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/l-intro-1716311148.jpg?w=1170)
Upon his mother’s marriage to Mr. Drummond in season 1984 of “Diff’rent Strokes,” viewers were introduced to Sam, the spirited redhead portrayed by newcomer Danny Cooksey. With his first significant role on “Diff’rent Strokes,” following a brief appearance on “The Dukes of Hazzard,” Cooksey embarked on a prolific acting career that continues to flourish. Despite mixed reactions from fans due to “Cousin Oliver syndrome”—an attempt by producers to retain a youthful charm as the main cast matured—Cooksey’s comedic talent shone through.
Post “Diff’rent Strokes,” Cooksey secured a role on “The Cavanaughs,” graced Nickelodeon’s “Salute Your Shorts,” and joined the cast of “Terminator 2: Judgment Day” as a friend of John Connor. His voice acting portfolio is extensive, with credits in “Tiny Toon Adventures,” “Pound Puppies,” “Superman,” “The Further Adventures of SuperTed,” “Hey Arnold!,” “Pepper Ann,” “Static Shock,” “Invader Zim,” and “Xiaolin Showdown.” His most recent animation role was in 2021’s “Long Gone Gulch.”
Apart from acting, Cooksey pursued a successful music career, fronting the Steve Vai-created teen rock band Bad4Good and releasing several albums. At 48, he relishes his life married with a child.
FAQ About Cast Members of Diff’rent Strokes
- Who was Danny Cooksey on Diff’rent Strokes?
- What was the controversy surrounding Danny Cooksey’s character on the show?
- What are some other notable projects that Danny Cooksey has worked on?
- What has Danny Cooksey done in the music industry?
- Is Danny Cooksey still working in the entertainment industry?
Danny Cooksey played the role of Sam, Mr. Drummond’s stepson after he married Maggie in the 1984 season of “Diff’rent Strokes.”
His character was met with controversy due to “Cousin Oliver syndrome,” where a new child actor is introduced to maintain the “cute kid” aspect when the original child actors age.
Cooksey has acted in “The Cavanaughs,” “Salute Your Shorts,” “Terminator 2: Judgment Day,” and has voiced characters in shows like “Hey Arnold!” and “Invader Zim.”
He was the lead singer for the teen band Bad4Good formed by Steve Vai, and has released several records.
Yes, Cooksey continues to work in the entertainment industry, most recently acting in the 2021 animated project “Long Gone Gulch.”
Conclusion
Danny Cooksey remains one of the notable surviving actors from the beloved sitcom “Diff’rent Strokes.” His initial role as Sam paved the way for a thriving career in both acting and music, proving that talent can transcend the confines of a child actor’s early typecasting. Cooksey continues to contribute his unique voice to the world of animation, sustaining his place in the hearts of fans who grew up watching his performances on screen.