Twenty years after the modern reboot of The Pink Panther, the cast has taken wildly different paths—from Grammy domination to Emmy-winning TV roles. Here’s where they are now.
When The Pink Panther reboot hit theaters on February 10, 2006, it put a modern twist on the classic franchise that had been dormant for almost a decade. The film centered on the incompetent but endearing Inspector Jacques Clouseau, played by Steve Martin, as he bumbled his way through solving the theft of the legendary Pink Panther diamond. The star-studded cast included Kevin Kline, Beyoncé, Jean Reno, and a supporting lineup of talented actors who each brought their own flair to the comedic mystery.
On its 20th anniversary, it’s time to catch up with the stars who brought this fizzy reboot to life. From Grammy-winning musicians to Emmy-winning TV stars, the cast of The Pink Panther has carved out remarkable careers in entertainment.
The Star: Steve Martin as Jacques Clouseau
Reprising the role Peter Sellers made famous, Steve Martin put his own stamp on Inspector Clouseau—more awkward, more verbal wordplay, and a little less slapstick. Though the reboot received mixed reviews, his performance was widely praised as a standout.
Today, Martin enjoys one of the most successful careers in comedy history. He currently stars in the Emmy-winning Hulu series Only Murders in the Building opposite Martin Short and Selena Gomez, proving that his comedic chops are timeless.
- Honorary Academy Award (2013)
- Five Grammy Awards
- Primetime Emmy and Screen Actors Guild Awards
Beyond the screen, Martin has been married to writer Anne Stringfield since 2007. They share a daughter, completing a contented private life behind the public persona.
The Sidekick: Kevin Kline as Charles Dreyfus
Kevin Kline played Chief Inspector Charles Dreyfus, who was constantly exasperated by Clouseau’s bumbling antics. Though the character was previously portrayed by Herbert Lom in the original films, Kline made the role his own with a mix of frustration and comedic disbelief.
Kline remains one of Hollywood’s most respected actors, winning the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in A Fish Called Wanda (1988). Recent appearances include Beauty and the Beast (2017) and reprising his role as petty thief Eugene Kittridge in Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One. He continues to captivate audiences with his voice acting on Fox’s Bob’s Burgers. In 2024, Kline starred in the acclaimed off-Broadway revival of Harold Pinter’s The Lover. He has been married to actress Phoebe Cates since 1989, and they have two children, including actor Owen Kline.
The Diva: Beyoncé as Xania
Queen B’s foray into film featured her as Xania, a glamorous pop star entangled in the diamond heist. Her role was created specifically for the reboot, giving her more freedom to inject her star power into the performance.
Since The Pink Panther, Beyoncé dominated music charts, winning 32 Grammy Awards—the most of any artist in history. In 2019, she voiced Nala in the live-action The Lion King, and her Grammy 2025 Album of the Year win for Cowboy Carter further cements her status as a global icon.
Beyond show business, Beyoncé has expanded into entrepreneurial ventures including Ivy Park, Cécred, and SirDavis whiskey. Married to Jay-Z, the power couple shares three children—Blue Ivy and twins Rumi and Sir.
The Soldier: Jean Reno as Captain Bezu Fache
Jean Reno portrayed the stern French police captain assigned to oversee Clouseau’s investigation. Reno brought a gravitas that contrasted sharply with Martin’s comedy, giving the film balance.
In 2024, the French actor continues to amaze audiences as one of France’s most recognizable stars. He remains active in both European and Hollywood projects, including severe thriller Still Missing and a new season of 50 Candles on Netflix.
At 77, Reno is married to Zofia Borucka with a blended family spanning six children. His most recent venture: launching his own olive oil brand, Principal Secret.
The Assistant: Emily Mortimer as Nicole
Emily Mortimer played Clouseau’s patient and capable assistant, Nicole. Her character provided a steady anchor for the chaotic events.
Mortimer now enjoys widespread acclaim as both an actress and writer, particularly for Mary Poppins Returns and her recent turn as the rebellious Aunt Sadie in Prime Video’s The Pursuit of Love. She shares two children with husband Alessandro Nivola.
The Villain: Henry Czerny as Yuri
Henry Czerny portrayed the calculating Yuri, manager of Xania. His villainous demeanor added a delicious bite to the film’s whodunnit structure.
Co-currently, Czerny presides over the United States as CIA Director Tom Keen in Netflix’s blockbuster The Night Agent, a role that has brought him renewed fan devotion. He lives with wife Claudine Cassidy and their son, Mia.
The Eager Assistant: Kristin Chenoweth as Cherie
Kristin Chenoweth portrayed Cherie, Clouseau’s excitable and overly enthusiastic sidekick, delivering comic relief and charm.
A Broadway legend, Chenoweth continues to shine in theater, television, and film. She appeared in 2025’s Broadway revival of On the Town and translates her megawatt personality to her syndicated sanctuary, Kristin’s Podcast, where she interviews Broadway icons. In 2023, she married musician Josh Bryant. They divide time between New York and Los Angeles, frequently performing “Broadway Nights” shows at intimate venues.
Tribute: Roger Rees as Mr. Tucker
Rees was a Tony Award-winning actor known for Cheers, The West Wing, and various Shakespeare adaptations. He died in 2015 after a brief battle with brain cancer, leaving behind a profound legacy in theater and television.
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