Judge Reinhold, a name synonymous with 80s cinema, has had a career filled with memorable roles. His journey in Hollywood began with appearances in iconic TV shows like Wonder Woman and Magnum P.I., which set the stage for his later success.
Reinhold’s first professional line on camera was in a 1979 episode of Wonder Woman titled “Amazon Hot Wax.” He recalls saying, “Wonder Woman, I’m so glad you’re here!” The episode featured notable names like Rick Springfield and Sarah Purcell. Reinhold’s character was part of a duo reminiscent of Karen and Richard Carpenter, navigating a plot set in a recording studio. This early role taught him the nuances of working with the camera, a skill that would serve him well in his future endeavors.
The following year, Reinhold landed a role in the pilot episode of Magnum, P.I. He played a character humorously named “Chicken-Eating Seaman,” who is bribed with a bucket of chicken by Tom Selleck’s Magnum to gain access to a restricted area. Reinhold fondly remembers Selleck as a relaxed and lovely guy, making the experience enjoyable.
These early roles were stepping stones that led to Reinhold’s breakout performances in the 80s. He won hearts in Fast Times at Ridgemont High, played a yuppie in Gremlins, and starred as a novice in Stripes. However, it was his role as Detective Billy Rosewood in Beverly Hills Cop that catapulted him to stardom. Reinhold’s portrayal of the pure-hearted detective opposite Eddie Murphy’s Axel Foley became iconic, and he is set to reprise this role in Netflix’s upcoming Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F.
Reinhold’s career took a significant turn after the first Beverly Hills Cop, transitioning from a character actor to a leading man. Despite strong reviews, his lead role in Vice Versa didn’t achieve the expected success, partly due to the competitive landscape of body-swap movies in the late 80s. This setback, however, didn’t diminish his enthusiasm for acting.
Reflecting on his early career, Reinhold shares anecdotes about his experiences on set. He recalls being paid with a stolen car for his first movie, Running Scared, and the camaraderie with John Candy on the set of Stripes. These stories highlight the unpredictable and often humorous nature of his journey in Hollywood.
Reinhold’s roles in Wonder Woman and Magnum P.I. may seem minor compared to his later work, but they were crucial in shaping his career. These early experiences provided him with the skills and confidence needed to tackle more significant roles. His boundless energy and “unwarranted enthusiasm,” a phrase coined during his teenage years, continue to define his approach to acting.
As Reinhold prepares to return as Billy Rosewood, fans eagerly anticipate seeing him bring the same boyish charm and enthusiasm to the role. His journey from Wonder Woman and Magnum P.I. to Beverly Hills Cop is a testament to his enduring appeal and talent in the entertainment industry.
