Mike Damone Now: 5 Surprising Ways Robert Romanus Is Still Rocking Hollywood And Beyond

Few characters define an era of classic teen cinema quite like Mike Damone, the smooth-talking ticket scalper and self-proclaimed ladies' man from the 1982 classic, Fast Times at Ridgemont High. The actor who brought him to life, Robert Romanus, has maintained a steady, multi-faceted career that extends far beyond the halls of Ridgemont High. As of late 2024, Romanus has embraced new acting challenges, transitioned into directing, and built a surprising second career as a working musician and dedicated acting coach, proving that the entrepreneurial spirit of Damone is alive and well.

The curiosity surrounding "what happened to the cast of Fast Times" remains high, and Robert Romanus’s current activities offer a fascinating look at a veteran actor who has successfully navigated the decades. From starring in a major 2024 thriller to fronting an LA-based band, his story is one of continuous reinvention, balancing his iconic past with a vibrant present in film, music, and education.

Robert Romanus: Complete Biography and Profile

Robert Romanus, also frequently credited as Bob Romanus, is an American actor, musician, and director whose career spans over four decades. While he is instantly recognizable as Mike Damone, his filmography includes a wide range of roles across television and independent cinema.

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• Full Name: Robert C. Romanus
• Also Billed As: Bob Romanus
• Date of Birth: July 17, 1956
• Age (as of late 2024): 68
• Place of Birth: Texas, United States
• Occupation: Actor, Musician, Director, Acting Coach, Former Business Owner
• Years Active: 1980–Present
• Most Famous Role: Mike Damone in Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982)
• Notable TV Roles: Miltie in Fame (1983–1984), Guest roles in Code Black, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, and Will & Grace
• Spouse: Kari Lizer (divorced)
• Children: 3
• Brother: Richard Romanus (actor)
• Other Ventures: Previously owned a coffee shop called Bob's Espresso
• Current Band: Poppa's Kitchen

The 2024 & 2025 Film Projects: From Comedy to Thriller

While Robert Romanus’s career will forever be linked to the beloved 80s comedy genre, his most recent work showcases a willingness to take on darker, more intense roles. For fans eager to know what he is doing now, his film schedule for 2024 and 2025 provides the freshest update, confirming he is still very much active in front of the camera.

A Turn to Horror with *Longlegs* (2024)

In a surprising and high-profile move, Romanus appeared in the critically acclaimed and commercially successful 2024 thriller, Longlegs. This film, which starred Maika Monroe and Nicolas Cage, was a major cinematic event in the horror genre and demonstrated Romanus's ability to seamlessly transition from his comedic roots to a modern, chilling narrative. His involvement in such a significant 2024 release proves that he continues to be cast in relevant, contemporary Hollywood projects, often taking on character roles that add depth to the story.

Upcoming Western and Indie Focus (2025)

Looking ahead, Romanus is also attached to an upcoming western film slated for a 2025 release. This genre shift highlights the diverse interests of the veteran actor, allowing him to explore different historical and dramatic landscapes. Beyond these higher-profile roles, Romanus has consistently supported independent cinema, a career path he has championed for years. He has appeared in numerous indie films, including The Remake (2016), Talons (2016), and the short film The Liquid Psychologist (2017). This dedication to smaller, passion projects—a far cry from the studio system of his early career—allows him to maintain a continuous creative output.

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Poppa's Kitchen and The Life of a Working Musician

Perhaps the most unexpected and enduring aspect of Robert Romanus’s life today is his vibrant second career as a musician. He has channeled a significant portion of his creative energy into his band, Poppa's Kitchen, where he performs alongside Steve Feldman.

Gigs, Recordings, and a Musical Identity

Romanus is not merely a celebrity dabbling in music; he is a working musician. Poppa's Kitchen regularly records and performs gigs at various clubs across the Los Angeles area. The band offers Romanus an artistic outlet that is completely separate from his acting persona, allowing him to connect with audiences in a direct, live setting. While the band's style and precise genre are not always explicitly defined, their presence in the L.A. music scene is a testament to Romanus's commitment to the arts in all its forms. This musical pursuit is a major part of his "now" identity, often taking precedence over traditional acting roles.

The Entrepreneurial Spirit of Bob Romanus

The hustle that defined Mike Damone's character—selling tickets to a Zeppelin concert—seems to have been a trait Romanus himself possesses. Before his focus shifted to music and teaching, he once owned a successful coffee shop called Bob's Espresso in the Los Angeles area. This venture into the restaurant and hospitality industry demonstrates his entrepreneurial drive, a key entity in his life story that shows a professional versatility beyond Hollywood.

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The Educator and Mentor: Giving Back to the Next Generation

In addition to his acting and music, Robert Romanus has dedicated time to mentoring and teaching new talent, solidifying his role as a respected veteran in the entertainment industry. This work as an educator provides another layer of topical authority to his current life.

Mastering the Audition Process

Romanus has taught acting classes, focusing specifically on the crucial skill of the audition process. He has offered "Audition class" sessions, where he shares his decades of experience on how to properly approach and execute a successful reading. This mentorship role allows him to directly influence the next generation of actors, providing practical, real-world advice that only a seasoned professional can offer.

Teaching Through Video and Media

His educational work also extends to teaching children, often utilizing video and media as a lens for instruction. By integrating modern technology with fundamental acting and storytelling principles, Romanus helps young people develop confidence and creative skills. This commitment to teaching is a quiet, yet significant, part of his current life, showing a dedication to the craft that goes beyond simply performing.

From the iconic high school huckster to a working musician and a 2024 thriller star, Robert Romanus's career is a masterclass in Hollywood longevity. He has skillfully balanced the legacy of Mike Damone with a dynamic life filled with new creative outlets, proving that for this veteran actor, the fast times never truly ended. His current focus on music with Poppa's Kitchen and his surprising appearances in films like *Longlegs* ensure that he remains a relevant and intriguing figure in modern entertainment.