8 Unforgettable Brunette Best Friends in Classic ‘80s Movies
You probably remember all the main characters from your favorite ’80s movies. But do you remember anything about that brunette’s best friend who kept it real and quietly stole the scene? These characters brought depth, humor, and heart when the other leads were too busy falling apart.
Let’s rewind and give these underrated icons their due.
Toni Williams – Secret Admirer (1985)
Credit: IMDb
Toni wrote that one letter that kicked off the whole movie. Lori Loughlin’s character shows how emotional risk-taking drives good stories. She hides big feelings behind best-friend loyalty, and the film captures that ache of wanting someone who doesn’t quite see you yet.
Phil “Duckie” Dale – Pretty in Pink (1986)
Credit: IMDb
Duckie defined quirky for a generation. The vintage suits, dance solos, and love-struck monologues helped turn Jon Cryer into a sidekick and a cultural icon. He gave us a sensitive guy who refused to be cool and somehow made it look cooler than anything.
Lisa “Boof” Marconi – Teen Wolf (1985)
Credit: IMDb
Boof definitely deserved better. This character stays real until the very end, even when Scott turns into a wolf and loses his mind over popularity. Susan Ursitti was warm and patient with a quiet kind of strength. She showed that staying grounded in chaos is its own kind of power.
Rick Morehouse – Just One of the Guys (1985)
Credit: IMDb
Rick doesn’t know Terry is actually a girl in disguise, and somehow, their friendship still feels totally genuine. That’s the magic of this movie. Clayton Rohner plays Rick as a sweet, slightly awkward teen with a heart. His trust in Terry adds emotional weight to all the comedy.
Monique Junot – Better Off Dead (1985)
Credit: IMDb
A French exchange student who fixes cars better than the guys? Yes, please. Monique is charming, but most importantly, she’s ridiculously capable. Diane Franklin brings a rare mix of softness and strength to a character who helps Lane rebuild his confidence.
Allison Bradbury – The Sure Thing (1985)
Credit: IMDb
Allison is not your typical road trip companion. She starts off guarded and sharp, but Daphne Zuniga brings out her growth. Her bond with Walter does not feel forced. The movie quietly flips the “opposites attract” trope by letting the characters learn from each other without losing themselves.
Cassandra Eldridge – One Crazy Summer (1986)
Credit: IMDb
Cassandra plays a solid role of trying to save her grandfather’s home. Demi Moore brings fire and edge to a role that could’ve been forgettable. Instead, Cassandra stands out as a tough and artistic lead who actually has something to fight for. Interestingly, she does it with style.
Allison Reynolds – The Breakfast Club (1985)
Credit: Youtube
You probably didn’t expect the “basket case” to break your heart, but here we are. Allison barely says a word for most of the movie, then delivers some of its most honest moments. Ally Sheedy brings intensity to a role that proves not all growth has to be loud.
Rona – Oxford Blues (1984)
Credit: Youtube
Rona is the confident American who helps Rob Lowe’s character survive the snobbery of Oxford life. Ally Sheedy plays her with dry wit and real-world awareness. She’s not dazzled by old money or posh traditions—and she’s the only one who tells Nick what he actually needs to hear.
Dez – Desperately Seeking Susan (1985)
Credit: IMDb
Dez is the kind of guy who doesn’t say much but always shows up when it counts. Aidan Quinn gives him low-key charm with just enough edge. He adds some calm to Roberta’s wildly messy journey and helps ground a story full of mistaken identity and Madonna-level chaos.
Lane Meyer – Better Off Dead (1985)
Credit: IMDb
Lane might be the main character, but emotionally, he’s also the best friend we all wish we had. John Cusack takes teen heartbreak and spins it into surreal comedy gold. Between suicidal ski slopes and talking hamburgers, Lane somehow finds his way back—with help from, yes, a brunette.
Linda Barrett – Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982)
Credit: IMDb
Yes, that scene made her famous—but Linda is more than slow-motion confidence. Phoebe Cates plays her as the older friend who’s been through it and isn’t afraid to talk real. Linda gives Stacy advice that’s raw and a little messy, just like actual teen life.