Soleil Moon Frye has been “Punky Brewster” since she was a kid, but even now, decades later, she still sees the character as a major part of who she is. In fact, she recently called Punky her “superhero,” proving just how much she loves and connects with the role that made her a household name. And to be real… fans feel the same way.
What Is “Punky Brewster?”
If you grew up in the ‘80s, chances are you remember “Punky Brewster.” The sitcom, which premiered in 1984, followed the life of Penelope “Punky” Brewster, an independent, big-hearted kid being raised by her foster father, Henry. The show struck a perfect balance between comedy and real-life lessons, making Punky a fan-favorite character for a generation of kids.
Fast forward to 2021, and Punky Brewster made a comeback with a revival series. This time, Punky was all grown up, navigating life as a single mom. Frye stepped back into the role like she never left, calling the experience a “dream come true,” in an interview with TooFab in 2019. While the revival only lasted one season, it gave fans a chance to see where Punky ended up, and reminded everyone why they loved her in the first place.
The Superhero Moment
Lauren Weigle / EntertainmentNOWFrye had a standout moment at 90s Con this past weekend when EntertainmentNow’s very own Lauren Weigle complimented her style, saying she’s “always dressed super awesome.” Frye, clearly touched, responded, “Oh my gosh, you’re so sweet… so these {indicating her shoes} were from the Punky set when we did the continuation, and I got to keep them.”
When asked, “What did you take away emotionally from that experience?” Frye didn’t hesitate, sharing, “Oh, Punky is like my superhero. Punky is such a part of my heart. I love Punky so much.”
Her love for the character is undeniable, and fans wouldn’t have it any other way. Frye even expressed joy at being able to interact with fans at conventions like 90s Con saying, “It’s such a soul fulfilling, happy, beautiful experience. being here because it’s such a special connection that you get to have with people, and it’s just a really special experience.”
Fans React to Punky
For longtime fans, Punky was more than just a character; she was an icon. So when Frye talks about how much she still cherishes Punky, it hits home. Fans on social media shared their opinions on the show proving how much Punky’s optimistic, can-do attitude meant to them.
Even Frye’s own kids got in on the love. She shared that her 10-year-old son, Lyric, started calling her “Punky” after watching the original series, per People. Frye went on to joke that “he would literally call me ‘Punky’ all the time and I’d be like, ‘Oh my god, people are going to think that I’m making my kids call me ‘Punky’ so I’d be recognized or something. Anyway, there was no stopping him.” That’s clear proof that Punky’s influence spans generations.
At the end of the day, Punky Brewster isn’t just a character… she’s a symbol of resilience, joy, and staying true to yourself. And if that’s not superhero material, what is?
Comments
EXCLUSIVE: TV Icon Soleil Moon Frye Says ‘Punky Brewster’ is Her “Superhero”