When it comes to heart, Sean Astin plays every scene like it matters — and that energy lit up the ballroom at the River Oaks Country Club for the Christus Foundation for HealthCare’s 21st Annual Spring Luncheon on March 28.

The celebrated actor and director, best known for iconic roles in The Goonies, Rudy, and The Lord of the Rings trilogy, sat down with 610 Sports Radio’s Sean Pendergast for a conversation that moved from silver screen tales to a stirring call for mental health awareness. Reflecting on the impact of his mother Patty Duke’s bipolar diagnosis, Astin offered heartfelt insights on compassion and advocacy in the face of today’s growing mental health crisis.

His candid recollections were met with laughter, especially when he noted the uncanny similarity of his death scenes in both 24 and Stranger Things. Naturally, his underdog triumph in Rudy came up—a role that continues to inspire dreamers to suit up and keep going, no matter the odds.

Chaired by Terra Seidel and Margaret O’Donnell, the luncheon raised $243,000 to benefit mental health programs. The Houston Philanthropy Circle was honored with the Legacy Award for its unwavering support of underserved communities.

Among the mental health advocates were Raye White, Sr. Celeste Trahan, Madelyn and George Farris, Carolyn and Bill Forney, Ginnie and Tim McConn, Donnie Avery, Ray Vitulli, Kristi and Martin Gollwitzer, and Alyx and Paul Penland.

  

Photo by Chris Bailey Photography

Donald Anderson, Sean Astin, and Bonnie Anderson.