Thescreescore – The beloved 2004 romantic comedy 13 Going on 30 has unexpectedly emerged as a surprising pipeline to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, a connection that its leading ladies, Jennifer Garner and Judy Greer, recently discussed with a mix of nostalgia and amusement. What began as a charming tale of a teenager’s wish to fast-forward to adulthood has now seen a remarkable number of its cast members don superhero suits or portray formidable villains within the sprawling MCU.
Jennifer Garner, who portrayed the 30-year-old version of Jenna Rink, is set to reprise her role as Elektra in the upcoming Deadpool & Wolverine (2024). Her co-star, Judy Greer, known for her portrayal of Lucy Wyman, has already established her presence in the MCU as Scott Lang’s ex-wife, Maggie, appearing in Ant-Man (2015) and Ant-Man and the Wasp (2018). This surprising convergence of talent from the rom-com classic into one of cinema’s biggest franchises has become a fascinating topic for fans and actors alike.
During a recent interview with Ash Crossan for The Last Thing He Told Me season 2, Garner and Greer reminisced about their time on the 13 Going on 30 set. Garner highlighted the memorable "Thriller" dance sequence, but both actresses fondly recalled the simple joy of exploring New York City together. Greer described the film as a "lightning-in-a-bottle" project, a rare confluence of creative energy and talent. "It was kind of a lightning-in-a-bottle moment," Greer shared, praising director Gary Winnick and the production team for fostering such a special environment. "We got lucky. It was really special."
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The conversation naturally turned to their fellow 13 Going on 30 alumni who have since made their mark in the MCU. Mark Ruffalo, who played the endearing Matt Flamhaff, has become one of the most recognizable faces in the franchise as Bruce Banner/the Hulk, a role he first took on in The Avengers (2012) and will continue in Spider-Man: Brand New Day (2026). Andy Serkis, who played their eccentric boss Richard Kneeland, transitioned to the MCU as the villainous arms dealer Ulysses Klaue, appearing in Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015) and Black Panther (2018). Greer humorously pointed out that many forget Serkis also played her "ape husband," Caesar, in the Planet of the Apes franchise, a testament to his versatile, motion-capture performances.
Beyond those discussed by Garner and Greer, another significant 13 Going on 30 connection to the MCU often flies under the radar: Brie Larson. Before becoming the mighty Carol Danvers/Captain Marvel, Larson had a small but memorable role as one of the "Six Chicks," the popular mean girl clique that tormented young Jenna Rink. Her journey from a supporting role in a beloved rom-com to a central figure in the MCU underscores the film’s unexpected legacy as a breeding ground for future superhero talent.
More than two decades after its initial release, 13 Going on 30 continues to resonate deeply with audiences, maintaining a cherished place in pop culture. Its enduring appeal, as noted in a 2025 thescreescore.com review, lies in its heartfelt message: "Jenna learns to value her kindness, her creativity, and her big heart, which are often things girls feel they have to leave behind as they get older. That Jenna embraces it all and gets back in touch with herself, all while falling in love with a very dreamy Mark Ruffalo, is a beautiful arc that I’m sure hits home for many women watching today." The film’s celebration of authenticity and self-acceptance, coupled with its charming performances, ensures its lasting impact.
While Ruffalo’s association with the Hulk is now iconic, his portrayal of Matty Flamhaff remains a defining moment in his early career. Similarly, Serkis’s role as Richard Kneeland predates his groundbreaking work in the Planet of the Apes and Star Wars franchises, showcasing his early range. For fans eager to see Garner and Greer reunite, they can catch them together in the second season of Apple TV’s The Last Thing He Told Me, which premieres on February 20. The series offers a chance to witness the continued chemistry of these two talented actresses, whose shared history now includes an intriguing link to the superhero cinematic universe.
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