It’s always a bittersweet moment when we hear about the passing of a familiar face from our childhood screens, especially someone who brought laughter and heart to a generation of moviegoers.

This week, we say goodbye to the former child actor best known for his role as the lovable Mike Engelberg in the classic Bad News Bears sequels.

He passed away on 25 July at the age of 61, surrounded by his loved ones in Carbondale, Illinois.


For many of us, the Bad News Bears films were a staple of family movie nights, and Jeffrey Louis Starr’s performance as the cheeky, chubby catcher was unforgettable.

He starred alongside Hollywood heavyweights like Tony Curtis and William Devane, holding his own with a natural charm that made him a fan favourite.

The original Bad News Bears (1976) was a box office smash, and the sequels—The Bad News Bears in Breaking Training (1977) and The Bad News Bears Go To Japan (1978)—kept the misfit baseball team’s adventures rolling, with Jeffrey right in the thick of the action.


Jeffrey’s journey began in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, where he was born on 20 February 1964.

He married his sweetheart, Linda Darlene Webb, in 1981, and the couple recently celebrated an incredible 44 years together.

Their family grew to include two sons, Brandon and Jacob, nine grandchildren, three great-grandchildren (with another on the way), and a close-knit circle of siblings and extended family.


While his time in the Hollywood spotlight was brief—his only acting credits are the two Bad News Bears sequels—Jeffrey’s life was rich and full beyond the silver screen.

After his acting career, he found a new calling as a deacon at Mill Creek Baptist Church in 2010. There, he was known for his warmth, generosity, and devotion to his community.

He was also a proud member of the Screen Actors Guild and the Moose Lodge #1346 in Anna, Illinois.

His brother Kevin shared a moving tribute on Facebook, describing Jeffrey as his 'best friend and brother,' and reflecting on the many lives Jeffrey touched.

'Jeff never met a stranger and helped so many people throughout the years,' Kevin wrote.

He also spoke candidly about Jeffrey’s long battle with illness and the toll of depression, reminding us all of the importance of reaching out and supporting one another through life’s challenges.

Jeffrey’s passing is a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of fame and the enduring impact of kindness, family, and community.

While he may have left the Hollywood limelight decades ago, his legacy lives on in the memories of those who watched him on screen and those who knew him in real life.

The Bad News Bears franchise itself has a special place in pop culture history. The original film, starring Walter Matthau and Tatum O’Neal, was a critical and commercial hit, even spawning a short-lived TV series and a 2005 remake with Billy Bob Thornton.

The story of a ragtag little league team and their grumpy coach resonated with audiences of all ages, and Jeffrey’s character, Mike Engelberg, was a big part of that magic.

As we remember Jeffrey, it’s worth reflecting on the unique journey of child stars—how some go on to long careers in entertainment, while others, like Jeffrey, find fulfilment in quieter, more personal pursuits.

His story is a testament to the idea that life after fame can be just as meaningful, if not more so, than the years spent in the spotlight.

A funeral service for Jeffrey was held on 29 July, with family, friends, and community members gathering to celebrate his life and legacy.

He leaves behind a loving family and a host of fans who will never forget the joy he brought to the screen.
Did you watch the Bad News Bears films back in the day? Do you remember Jeffrey’s performance or stories about meeting child stars from your favourite movies? We’d love to hear your thoughts and reminiscences—share your memories in the comments below.

Read more: ‘Seeing his face all over is hurting my feelings bad’: Family and fans grieve beloved actor