Carrie Preston, the talented actress known for her roles in both film and television, made waves in 1997’s My Best Friend’s Wedding with her unforgettable performance. While many remember her as the quirky, sweet, and often amusing character, there’s one particular moment in the film that has stuck with Preston herself for much longer than anyone could have anticipated. The scene in question? The legendary “Say a Little Prayer” moment. It was a pivotal moment, both for the movie and for Preston’s relationship with one particular dish: crab and lobster.
But what exactly happened in that scene, and why has it led to Carrie Preston’s decision to never touch crab or lobster again? Let’s dive into the details of this iconic scene, the aftermath for Preston, and the lasting impact of one memorable culinary choice.
The Scene that Stuck with Carrie Preston
An Unforgettable Musical Moment in a Classic Rom-Com
In My Best Friend’s Wedding, Carrie Preston plays the role of the bubbly and quirky woman who joins in the film’s climactic “Say a Little Prayer” scene at the restaurant. For anyone who’s seen the movie, the moment is nothing short of magical—catchy, energetic, and hilariously offbeat. But behind the fun and excitement of this crowd-pleasing moment lies something rather peculiar. It was a scene with plenty of chaos, laughter, and, of course, food. And it was that food—specifically the crab and lobster—that would forever change Preston’s dining habits.
Behind the Scenes: The Crab and Lobster Fiasco
The ‘Say a Little Prayer’ Scene: A Chaotic, Hilarious Ride
Carrie Preston’s character is seated at the table, ready to partake in the joyous yet chaotic scene. But things didn’t go as smoothly as they appeared on screen. According to Preston, the entire scene had been much more chaotic in real life. The actresses and actors had to work with food—crab and lobster, no less—which were notoriously messy and tricky to handle. Add the comedic elements, and the scene became far more challenging than expected.
“I remember it was one of those scenes where it was hard to stop laughing,” Preston recalled in a recent interview. “Everything was chaotic: the lobster, the crab, and the mess we made. But I think what really sealed it for me was that moment when we had to eat the crab in front of the camera. It was so stressful, and I think I just ended up saying, ‘No more.’”
The Aftermath: Why Carrie Preston Avoids Crab and Lobster
A Moment of Realization: Not Just the Mess, but the Memories
After filming, Preston realized she couldn’t look at crab or lobster in the same way again. The scene, though memorable for audiences, had left a lasting impression on her. The awkwardness, the mess, and the pressure to get everything perfect had made her associate these dishes with stress rather than enjoyment. It wasn’t just about the food itself; it was about the experience surrounding it.
Preston didn’t just stop eating crab and lobster—she actively avoided it. Whether out of a subconscious decision or a conscious one, these dishes became tied to that unforgettable day on set. And in Preston’s own words, she simply couldn’t bring herself to indulge in them again.
Carrie Preston’s Food Preferences Today
A New Approach to Eating: Moving On from Crab and Lobster
So, what does Carrie Preston eat now? According to her interviews, she doesn’t stick to any rigid diet plan, but she has gravitated toward simpler, more comfort-based foods. She enjoys dishes that are a bit more nostalgic for her, ones that bring her comfort and remind her of better memories. Her food choices are now less about impressing others and more about enjoying the experience without the pressure of performance.
“I’ve definitely learned to enjoy food on my own terms. It’s about what makes me happy, not about what’s expected in a scene,” Preston shared.
The Legacy of ‘My Best Friend’s Wedding’
How the Movie Shaped Carrie Preston’s Career
Carrie Preston’s role in My Best Friend’s Wedding remains a defining moment in her career. Not only did the film catapult her into the spotlight, but it also showcased her comedic timing and ability to deliver memorable performances. Even today, the movie continues to be a fan favorite, and Preston’s portrayal of the quirky character is still widely remembered.
But beyond the laughter and the romance of the film, Preston also had to face moments of discomfort, including the infamous “Say a Little Prayer” scene. While this moment has become iconic, it’s also the backdrop for one of the more interesting stories in Preston’s life—her decision to steer clear of crab and lobster forever.
Why Fans Still Remember ‘Say a Little Prayer’
An Iconic Scene That Fans Still Talk About
It’s safe to say that My Best Friend’s Wedding remains one of the most beloved rom-coms of all time. The “Say a Little Prayer” scene stands out for many reasons: the catchy song, the infectious energy, and, of course, the food-related chaos. Fans still rewatch this moment, laughing at the hilarity of it all and reminiscing about a time when the rom-com genre was at its peak. And for Carrie Preston, it’s a reminder of a chaotic and unforgettable day on set.
The Impact of Comedy in Movies
How Comedy Scenes Define Memorable Characters
Comedy is a powerful tool in film. It has the ability to make scenes unforgettable, create lasting impressions, and connect audiences with characters. The “Say a Little Prayer” scene is a perfect example of how a comedic moment can become iconic. In Preston’s case, it was more than just about her character’s comedic timing—it was about the memory attached to the food and the production.
Carrie Preston’s Career Beyond ‘My Best Friend’s Wedding’
From Film to TV: A Long-Lasting Legacy
Carrie Preston has gone on to become a staple in both television and film. From her roles in shows like True Blood and The Good Wife, to her work as a director, Preston has consistently showcased her incredible versatility. And though she’s best known for her roles in television, the memories of My Best Friend’s Wedding and the lessons learned during its production remain a part of who she is today.
Carrie’s Own Words: ‘I’ve Evolved’
Learning From Past Experiences
Reflecting on the experience, Carrie Preston shared that the entire event helped her evolve both as an actress and as a person. “You can’t always control what happens on set, but you can control how you react to it,” she said. This perspective has clearly influenced her career choices, propelling her into diverse roles where she can showcase her unique talent without the constraints of memorable—but messy—food scenes.
Conclusion: The Lasting Influence of One Movie Moment
Carrie Preston’s avoidance of crab and lobster may seem trivial to some, but it’s a perfect example of how our experiences—especially in the world of film—can shape the way we view things for years to come. For Preston, the iconic “Say a Little Prayer” scene remains a defining moment in both her career and her culinary life. While crab and lobster might never make it onto her plate again, the legacy of My Best Friend’s Wedding will surely continue to live on in the hearts of fans everywhere.
