Let’s catch up with the stars of this ridiculously quotable film, shall we?
Thirty years have gone by since the world was charmed by Steel Magnolias and its many colorful characters. If you’ve ever spent time with Shelby, M’Lynn, or the ever-sassy Ouiser, than you know how special this southern story is to the world. The film is making a return to theaters to celebrate the anniversary in May, but before rushing out to buy your tickets, sit, stay awhile, and take a look at what the cast of the legendary movie looks like today.
Then: Shirley MacLaine and Sally Field
“Don’t try to get on my good side…I no longer have one.” — Ouiser Boudreaux
Ouiser, a sassy, cantankerous divorcee played by Shirley, and M’Lynn Eatenton, a sweet mom devoted to restoring her daughter’s health, played by Sally, had a dynamic friendship that resonated with audiences.
Now: Shirley MacLaine and Sally Field
Oscar winner Shirley has been on a small-screen kick, with guest roles on Downton Abbey and Glee.
Two-time Academy Award-winner Sally’s latest starring role is in Hello, My Name is Doris, a movie about a 60-something-year-old woman who romantically pursues her younger coworker. She also released a memoir in 2018 called In Pieces.
Then: Julia Roberts
“I would rather have 30 minutes of wonderful than a lifetime of nothing special.” — Shelby Eatenton Latcherie
Julia Roberts, pictured here with movie dad Tom Skerritt, earned an Oscar nod for her portrayal of Shelby, a young wife and mother battling complications from type 1 diabetes. Writer Robert Harling based the character on his own sister, Susan, who died of diabetes.Now: Julia Roberts
Julia recently starred in the Amazon original thriller series Homecoming. She has been married to cinematographer Daniel Moder since 2002; they have three children together.
Then: Dolly Parton
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“I have a strict policy that nobody cries alone in my presence.” — Truvy Jones
Country musician (and Nine to Five star) Dolly Parton couldn’t be any more perfect as hairdresser Truvy if the role had been written for her.Now: Dolly Parton
At 70 years old, Dolly is as busy as ever: She wrote the soundtrack for the Netflix original movie Dumplin’, is working on a series based on her songs called Dolly Parton’s Heartstrings, and was honored with a star-studded tribute at the 2019 Grammys.
