Oh Rexy, You're So Sexy: 7 Things You Didn't Know About The Cult Icon Rex Manning And The Actor Who Plays Him

Who is Rex Manning? For millions of '90s film fans, the name immediately conjures up images of a smooth, slightly past-his-prime pop idol with a questionable wardrobe and a hit single called "Say No More, Mon Amour." Rex Manning is not a real person, but a brilliantly crafted fictional character from the 1995 cult classic film Empire Records. His enduring legacy, however, is very real, cemented by an annual, unofficial holiday: Rex Manning Day.

This deep dive, updated for the current date, December 11, 2025, explores the man behind the myth—actor Maxwell Caulfield—the character’s surprising cultural longevity, and why his one-day appearance at a struggling record store continues to be one of the most celebrated moments in '90s nostalgia. The character's popularity is only growing, especially as the 30th anniversary of Empire Records approaches in 2025, bringing new attention to the actor's career and the film's enduring themes.

The True Identity: Maxwell Caulfield's Complete Biography and Filmography

The man responsible for bringing the self-obsessed, yet strangely charming, Rex Manning to life is the seasoned British-American actor, Maxwell Caulfield. His career spans decades, encompassing theater, television, and film, with his role in *Empire Records* becoming one of his most recognized, albeit meta, performances.

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Biography and Profile

• Full Name: Maxwell P.J. Newby
• Stage Name: Maxwell Caulfield
• Date of Birth: November 23, 1959
• Birthplace: Derby, Derbyshire, England, UK (though often associated with London)
• Nationality: British and American
• Spouse: Juliet Mills (married since 1980)
• Occupation: Actor, Singer, Producer
• Notable Roles: Michael Carrington in *Grease 2*, Miles Colby in *The Colbys*, and, of course, Rex Manning in *Empire Records*.

Key Filmography Highlights (The Rex Manning Universe)

Caulfield's career is marked by several iconic roles, often playing the handsome heartthrob or the charismatic villain. His filmography provides the perfect context for why his casting as the "overnight sensation" Rex Manning was a stroke of genius, as it drew on his real-life history as a former teen idol.

• *Grease 2* (1982): His breakout role as Michael Carrington, the "Cool Rider," firmly established him as a teen idol, a status the *Empire Records* role satirizes.
• *The Colbys* (1985–1987): A major television role as Miles Colby in the *Dynasty* spin-off, cementing his status in prime-time soap operas.
• *Electric Dreams* (1984): Played the love rival to a computer, showcasing his 80s film presence.
• *Empire Records* (1995): The definitive role as the fictional pop star, Rex Manning.
• *The Merry Gentlemen* (2024): A recent appearance in this Netflix holiday film, proving his enduring presence in contemporary media.
• Hallmark Channel (Recent): Has appeared in recent Hallmark movies, such as *Butlers in Love*, continuing his work in television.

The Enduring Cult of Rex Manning Day (April 8th)

The most significant aspect of the Rex Manning phenomenon is the annual celebration known as Rex Manning Day. This mock holiday is celebrated every April 8th by fans worldwide, turning a minor plot point of a movie into a major cultural event. The date is deeply symbolic, marking the day the fictional pop star was scheduled to appear at Empire Records and, more somberly, the day Kurt Cobain was found dead, a contrast that highlights the film's generational themes.

The day is a celebration of '90s nostalgia, anti-establishment spirit, and the enduring love for the film and its ensemble cast, which includes future stars like Renée Zellweger (Gina), Liv Tyler (Corey Mason), and Ethan Embry (Mark). Fans often quote the film, post memes, and listen to the fictional hit "Say No More, Mon Amour."

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The 30th Anniversary and 2025 Celebrations

The year 2025 holds special significance for the fandom, as it marks the 30th anniversary of *Empire Records*' release. This milestone has spurred renewed interest and larger-than-usual celebrations. The actor, Maxwell Caulfield, has fully embraced his role, often participating in fan events and conventions, ensuring the character’s legacy remains fresh and relevant.

Events like the annual Rex Manning Day Block Party, which in 2025 will celebrate the 30th anniversary, are held in cities like Philadelphia, demonstrating the communal nature of the fandom.

The Meta-Casting Genius: Why Maxwell Caulfield Was Perfect

The choice to cast Maxwell Caulfield as Rex Manning was a brilliant, meta-commentary on the nature of pop stardom and the fleeting nature of fame. Caulfield, who was a genuine teen idol after *Grease 2*, played a character who was a parody of the very thing he once was. This self-parody elevated the role beyond a simple caricature.

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The character of Rex Manning represents the "corporate" music machine that the employees of Empire Records—like Lucas, Corey, and Debra—are rebelling against. He is the antithesis of the authentic, grunge, and alternative music that defined the 1990s. His arrival, a promotional signing for his new album, is seen as an intrusion by the staff, who mock him with the now-iconic line, "Oh Rexy, you're so sexy."

Caulfield's performance is a masterclass in playing a character with a fragile ego and an over-inflated sense of self-importance. He manages to make Rex both detestable and pitiable, especially when he tries to flirt with Gina, only to be rebuffed.

The Legacy of "Say No More, Mon Amour"

The fictional song that Rex Manning is promoting, "Say No More, Mon Amour," is a perfect encapsulation of the character. It’s a cheesy, overproduced pop track that stands in stark contrast to the film's incredible soundtrack, which features bands like The Gin Blossoms and Better Than Ezra. The song title itself has become a popular LSI keyword and a shorthand for the character, often quoted alongside the famous "Damn the man, save the Empire!" line.

The enduring appeal of the character lies in this very contrast: Rex Manning is the man they are trying to damn. He is the symbol of the commercialism threatening to destroy the independent spirit of the record store and the authenticity of the music they love.

Rex Manning's Influence on Pop Culture and Nostalgia

Beyond the annual holiday, Rex Manning has permeated pop culture in subtle and significant ways. The character serves as a touchstone for discussions about '90s cinema, the transition from physical media (records) to digital, and the timeless struggle between corporate interests and independent art.

• The Anti-Hero Idol: Rex Manning is a perfect example of a character who is meant to be mocked but is ultimately celebrated by fans for his sheer ridiculousness. He is a satirical figure that the audience loves to hate.
• The Actor's Embrace: Maxwell Caulfield's willingness to engage with the fandom, including his appearances at '90s conventions, has kept the character alive and relevant for new generations discovering the film. His acknowledgment of the "Cool Rider" connection to Rex Manning adds another layer of meta-fandom.
• The Ensemble Effect: The character's popularity is intrinsically linked to the success of the entire *Empire Records* cast, including Anthony LaPaglia (Joe Reaves), Rory Cochrane (Lucas), and Robin Tunney (Debra). Their collective chemistry and memorable lines are what make Rex Manning's brief but impactful appearance so iconic.

In conclusion, the answer to "who is Rex Manning" is complex. He is a fictional pop star, a symbol of '90s corporate excess, the subject of an annual mock holiday, and one of actor Maxwell Caulfield's most memorable roles. His legacy is a testament to the power of a cult classic film to create an enduring cultural phenomenon that continues to be celebrated, especially as the 30th anniversary approaches in 2025.