Remember the ’90s Cult Classic Empire Records? Here’s What the Cast Looks Like Today

Joe was the grumpy heart of Empire Records — the weary, sarcastic manager trying to keep his band of chaotic employees from burning the place down. Beneath the gruff exterior, he cared deeply for them, quietly fighting to save the store while pretending not to. Joe was chaos control in a leather jacket.

LaPaglia brought a grounded warmth to the role, making Joe feel like the only real adult in the room — even when he was secretly just as rebellious as the kids.