When it comes to The Nanny, audiences will immediately remember the lovely, high-pitched voice of Fran Fine – a nanny from Queens, New York – and her journey to “infiltrate” the upper-class world of Manhattan and then become an indispensable part of the Sheffield family.
The film is not only successful thanks to its colorful fashion style or witty humor, but also because of the warm family affection between Fran and the Sheffield family. Below are portraits of each member of “The Nanny family” that has conquered global audiences.
Fran Fine – “Queens Nanny”
Fran Drescher not only plays the role but also co-created The Nanny. The character Fran Fine is a Jewish girl, who used to work as a cosmetics saleswoman and then unexpectedly became the nanny of the three Sheffield children.
Fran’s confusion before the wealthy world, along with her kind heart and optimistic spirit, has turned her into the factor that binds the whole family together. “I’m not just a nanny, I’m the creator of this family,” Fran quips in the film.
Maxwell Sheffield – The Boss
Charles Shaughnessy plays Maxwell Sheffield, a successful, widowed musical producer who is always serious and calm.
The relationship between Maxwell and Fran is initially just a business relationship – but gradually blossoms into a romantic love. This sweet and humorous “boss – nanny” relationship is the biggest emotional thread of the film.
The Three Sheffield Children
The Sheffield family wouldn’t be complete without three adorable angels (and sometimes “little devils”):
Maggie Sheffield (Nicholle Tom): The eldest daughter is shy, sensitive, and has always had low self-esteem before Fran comes along and instills confidence in her.
Brighton Sheffield (Benjamin Salisbury): The mischievous son who often teases Fran but secretly loves her.
Grace Sheffield (Madeline Zima): The youngest, intelligent, mature girl, haunted by her mother’s death and finds comfort in Fran.
Fran not only takes care of them but also becomes a companion, a second mother to the three children.
Niles – The Clever Butler
Daniel Davis plays Niles, the loyal butler of the Sheffield family. He is Fran’s “accomplice”, always silently supporting her and making sharp quips about C.C. Babcock.
Niles is not only a maid, but also like a “spiritual foster father” in this dramatic house.
C.C. Babcock – Colleagues and Rivals
Lauren Lane plays C.C. Babcock, Maxwell’s arrogant partner and Fran’s arch-rival. The intense competition and repartee between C.C. and Fran (as well as Niles) creates many classic comedy segments.
Real Family Bonding
Despite their differences in background, personality, and lifestyle, Fran and the Sheffields gradually become a real family.
They experience losses, victories, teenage troubles, awkward dates, and countless heartwarming moments. In the end, Fran and Maxwell get married, have children, and build the home they deserve.
Why Is The Nanny Family So Beloved?
Fran Fine brings positive energy, breaking the aristocratic coldness. The three children have clear and authentic character development. Niles and C.C. add charming “sarcasm” spice. Maxwell is the epitome of a devoted single father who lacks joy – and Fran fills that void.
