Introduction
“Forever unclean!” Remember that triumphant, albeit disgusting, chant? If you do, you’re likely among the legions (pun intended!) of fans who fondly recall “The League,” the FX/FXX comedy that perfectly captured the obsessive, often hilarious, and occasionally repulsive world of fantasy football. Running from 2009 to 2015, the show, with its unique brand of improvisational humor and relatable awkwardness, struck a chord with viewers who saw their own friend groups reflected in the antics of Pete, Kevin, Ruxin, Andre, Taco, and Jenny.
But with the Shiva Bowl trophy gathering dust on some (presumably very well-organized) shelf, one question lingers in the minds of fans: what became of the amazing ensemble that brought these characters to life? This article will explore the careers and lives of the talented actors and actresses who comprised the league cast after the final whistle blew on the show, highlighting their significant achievements and ongoing projects, and examining how their work on the league cast impacted their careers beyond the fantasy gridiron.
Mark Duplass: More Than Just Pete Eckhart
Mark Duplass brought a certain understated cool to the role of Pete Eckhart, the seemingly perpetually successful (and therefore deeply irritating) player in the league cast. Pete’s “chill” demeanor often masked a deep well of insecurity and a knack for attracting bad luck, making him a complex and hilarious character.
Since “The League” wrapped, Duplass has continued to be a prolific force in the entertainment industry. He’s not just an actor; he’s a writer, director, and producer, often working alongside his brother, Jay. Fans of independent cinema will recognize Duplass’s name from critically acclaimed films like “Safety Not Guaranteed” and “The Puffy Chair.” He’s consistently delivered strong performances in both comedic and dramatic roles. Television viewers know him from his roles in shows like “Room 104,” an anthology series he co-created and starred in, and the Apple TV+ drama “The Morning Show,” where he plays a key supporting role. Duplass’s versatility and dedication to his craft have made him one of the most respected figures in independent film and television. His role within the league cast certainly helped propel his already impressive career and provided him with a larger platform to showcase his talents.
Stephen Rannazzisi: Life Beyond Kevin MacArthur
Stephen Rannazzisi, the man behind the lovable oaf Kevin MacArthur, brought a goofy charm to the league cast. Kevin’s good intentions were often overshadowed by his sheer lack of football knowledge and his tendency to say the wrong thing at the wrong time, resulting in some of the show’s most laugh-out-loud moments.
Post-“League,” Rannazzisi has continued to pursue his passion for comedy. While his career faced challenges in the years following the show, he has consistently worked on his stand-up routine and has appeared in various television projects. He has focused on rebuilding his career, performing stand-up across the country and making guest appearances on television shows. Rannazzisi’s comedic timing and ability to connect with audiences are undeniable, and he continues to work on his craft. His time within the league cast allowed him to hone his comedic skills in a very supportive environment.
Katie Aselton: Jenny MacArthur, Breaking the Mold
Katie Aselton played Jenny MacArthur, a fan favorite, and a vital part of the league cast. Jenny, Kevin’s wife, was often the smartest and most strategic player in the league, defying the stereotypes and holding her own against the guys. She provided a much-needed dose of sanity (relatively speaking) to the group dynamic, and her dry wit was a constant source of amusement.
Since the end of the show, Aselton has continued to build a successful career as both an actress and a director. She has appeared in films like “Black Rock” (which she also directed) and television series such as “Legion” and “The Morning Show.” She has also directed episodes of various TV shows, showcasing her talent behind the camera. Aselton’s ability to balance comedic and dramatic roles has made her a versatile and sought-after performer. Her strong performance as Jenny within the league cast opened many doors and has clearly given her the freedom to explore her creative interests both in front of and behind the camera.
Nick Kroll: Ruxin, the Master of Mayhem
Nick Kroll’s portrayal of Rodney Ruxin, the morally ambiguous, often detested, and generally unpleasant member of the league cast, was a masterclass in comedic villainy. Ruxin’s cutthroat tactics and his willingness to exploit any loophole (ethical or otherwise) made him a character that viewers loved to hate.
Kroll has become a major force in comedy. He created and starred in “Kroll Show,” a sketch comedy series that showcased his diverse comedic talents. He is also the co-creator and voice actor behind the hit Netflix animated series “Big Mouth” and “Human Resources,” which explores the awkwardness and absurdity of puberty and the complexities of adult relationships, respectively. Kroll has also appeared in films such as “Adult Beginners” and “Don’t Worry Darling,” demonstrating his range as an actor. His comedic genius and his ability to create memorable characters have solidified his place as one of the leading voices in comedy today. The role within the league cast proved pivotal, providing him with exposure to a wide audience and allowing him to develop his unique brand of humor.
Paul Scheer: Andre Nowzick, Forever Unclean
Paul Scheer breathed life into Andre Nowzick, the perpetually ridiculed fashion victim of the league cast. Andre’s cluelessness about style and his desperate attempts to fit in made him a constant target for the group’s merciless teasing, but his good nature and unwavering optimism always shone through.
Since “The League,” Scheer has remained incredibly busy. He is a prolific actor, writer, and podcaster. He co-hosts the popular podcast “How Did This Get Made?” which dissects terrible (but often hilarious) movies. He has appeared in numerous television shows, including “Veep,” “Fresh Off the Boat,” and “Black Monday,” showcasing his comedic versatility. Scheer has also written and directed for television and film, demonstrating his multifaceted talents. His energy and enthusiasm are infectious, and he continues to be a driving force in the comedy world. Being a key part of the league cast allowed him to build a strong network and further his career ambitions.
Jon Lajoie: Taco MacArthur, the Wild Card
Jon Lajoie, the man behind Taco MacArthur, brought an unpredictable energy to the league cast. Taco’s outlandish schemes, bizarre inventions, and musical interludes were a constant source of chaos and amusement. He was the ultimate wild card, and you never knew what he was going to do next.
Lajoie has continued to pursue his passions for music and comedy since the end of “The League.” He has released several albums of his satirical songs and has appeared in television shows such as “The Detour” and “Man Seeking Woman.” Lajoie’s unique comedic sensibility and his musical talent have made him a cult favorite. His unconventional character within the league cast proved very popular and opened doors for him post series.
Beyond the Core: Supporting Players Who Shined
While the core cast anchored the show, several recurring characters added depth and comedic flair. Janina Gavankar, as Shivakamini Somakandarkram, Ruxin’s wife, was a force to be reckoned with, both intimidating and hilarious. Jason Mantzoukas’s Rafi, the unhinged and utterly disgusting brother of Ruxin, became a comedic icon. Their contributions, and those of other recurring actors, elevated the show to another level. Seth Rogen and Jeff Goldblum made memorable guest appearances on the show too.
“The League”‘s Enduring Legacy
“The League” left an indelible mark on the comedy landscape. Its influence can be seen in other shows that embraced improvisation and pushed the boundaries of cringe humor. The show also played a role in the mainstreaming of fantasy football culture, making it more accessible and relatable to a wider audience.
The show’s enduring appeal lies in its relatable characters, its timeless humor, and its ability to capture the essence of friendship and competition. “The League” is available on streaming services, allowing new generations of viewers to discover its comedic brilliance. Fans can rewatch old episodes and relive the moments that made them laugh.
Is a reboot possible? The question looms large in the minds of fans. While there have been no official announcements, many cast members have expressed interest in revisiting the show in some form. Whether it’s a reunion special or a full-fledged reboot, the prospect of seeing the gang back together again is an exciting one for fans of the league cast and the show itself.
Conclusion
The cast members of “The League” have gone on to achieve great things in their respective careers. From Mark Duplass’s independent film success to Nick Kroll’s comedic dominance, the actors and actresses who brought these characters to life have proven their talent and versatility. “The League” may be over, but its legacy lives on through its hilarious episodes and the ongoing success of its cast. The fantasy football season may end, but the memories of Pete, Kevin, Ruxin, Andre, Taco, and Jenny will forever be “unclean” in our hearts. Be sure to revisit the show, and remember the the league cast.
