They’re still around—and they’re back with a heartfelt reunion. The surviving cast members of Stand By Me—Wil Wheaton, Corey Feldman, and Jerry O’Connell—are touring the U.S. in spring 2026 for a 40th‑anniversary celebration, complete with film screenings and live conversations honoring their friend and director Rob Reiner.
What’s Happening Now
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Reunion Tour
Starting March 13, 2026, in Pittsburgh, the cast will embark on Stand By Me: The Film and Its Stars 40 Years Later, a live tour featuring a screening of the film followed by a sit-down chat with Wheaton, Feldman, and O’Connell. Stops include Bethesda, Raleigh, Anaheim, Seattle, and Portland . -
Honoring River Phoenix
Even though River Phoenix is no longer with us, the cast ensures he is remembered—there’s a reserved chair for him on stage at these events, a tribute first planned by Reiner a decade ago . -
Tributes to Rob Reiner
The tour is also a tribute to the late Rob Reiner, who passed away in December 2025. His death shook the cast deeply—Jerry O’Connell likened the loss to losing a parent, and Stephen King called him “a wonderful friend, political ally, and brilliant filmmaker” . -
New Audiobook Release
Wil Wheaton is narrating a new audiobook adaptation of Stephen King’s The Body, the novella behind Stand By Me. It’s set for March 2026 release and taps into both nostalgia and the booming audiobook market .
Then and Now: Cast Profiles
Wil Wheaton (Gordie Lachance)
Once the sensitive, aspiring writer Gordie, Wheaton grew into a successful voice actor and podcaster. These days, he’s also giving The Body new life with his narration, bringing the story full circle in audio form .
Corey Feldman (Teddy Duchamp)
Known for his boundless energy as Teddy—and later muddled fame in the ‘Two Coreys’ era—Feldman has reinvented himself. His 2025 projects include music releases, producing, EPs, and contributions to a Goonies docuseries .
Jerry O’Connell (Vern Tessio)
Vern’s sweet, naive charm was O’Connell’s debut. Since then, he’s built a robust career—from My Secret Identity and Sliders to recurring roles on Crossing Jordan, Billions, and voice acting on Star Trek: Lower Decks .
Behind the Reunion Tour
What to Expect
Expect nostalgia wrapped up in live storytelling. Each show begins with a screening of Stand By Me and transitions into an intimate, unscripted conversation with the cast. VIP upgrades include photos, signed posters, and even closer re‑unions with the stars .
Emotional Undercurrents
- River Phoenix looms large in memory and conversation. The symbolic empty chair is a quiet but stirring reminder of his legacy .
- Rob Reiner’s shadow hangs on every moment. His tragic passing has added layers of reflection and gratitude to the entire event .
Film Background and Legacy
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Origin
Released in 1986 and based on Stephen King’s The Body, Stand By Me is a coming-of-age tale of four boys searching for a dead body in Oregon in 1959 . -
Impact
It earned an Oscar nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay and remains beloved for its emotional honesty and nostalgia. Rolling Stone once called it “a staple of youthful nostalgia” .
Conclusion
The Stand By Me cast is doing more than just touring. They’re reconnecting—honoring their shared past, coping with loss, and bringing something timeless back into the spotlight. A recreation of childhood innocence, a tribute to lost friends, and a celebration of real-life bonds. If you grew up loving this film, these shows are a rare chance to feel seen again.
FAQs
Are all original cast members part of the tour?
No, only the surviving trio—Wil Wheaton, Corey Feldman, and Jerry O’Connell—are touring. River Phoenix passed away in 1993, and Rob Reiner in December 2025.
Will there be future dates beyond March 2026?
As of now, only spring 2026 stops are announced. Fans can sign up on the official tour site for updates on potential additions .
Is the audiobook new, or a rerelease?
It’s a brand-new audiobook of The Body, narrated by Wil Wheaton and releasing in March 2026 .
How is River Phoenix being honored on the tour?
The cast includes a reserved chair on stage for Phoenix during the live shows—as a small but powerful tribute .
How did the cast react to Rob Reiner’s passing?
Devastated. O’Connell likened it to losing a parent. Stephen King called him a “brilliant filmmaker” and “wonderful friend.” Feldman and Wheaton echoed those sentiments publicly .
Where can I get tickets?
Tickets are available on ticketing platforms like Ticketmaster, StubHub, Vivid Seats, and SeatGeek. VIP upgrades offered include posters and photos with the cast .
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