Death Becomes Her Cast

Michael Sow

2 min read

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08-12-2024

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Released in 1992, Death Becomes Her remains a cult classic, a darkly comedic fantasy that continues to entertain audiences. Beyond its memorable plot twists and quotable lines, the film boasts a stellar cast whose careers have spanned decades. Let's revisit the principal players and see where their paths have led them.

Meryl Streep as Madeline Ashton

Meryl Streep, already a powerhouse in Hollywood, brought her considerable talent to the role of the eternally youthful Madeline Ashton. Her performance, a blend of icy elegance and desperate ambition, is a masterclass in comedic timing and nuanced character portrayal. Since Death Becomes Her, Streep has continued to dominate the acting world, receiving numerous accolades and solidifying her status as one of the greatest actresses of all time. Her filmography post-Death Becomes Her includes critically acclaimed roles in films like The Bridges of Madison County, Adaptation, Doubt, and numerous others.

Goldie Hawn as Helen Sharp

Goldie Hawn plays Helen Sharp, the woman whose life is upended by Madeline's ageless beauty. Hawn's comedic timing is impeccable, perfectly balancing vulnerability and resilience. While she'd already achieved significant success before Death Becomes Her, the film stands as a testament to her ability to seamlessly transition between comedic and dramatic roles. Post-Death Becomes Her, Hawn continued to act, but she also stepped back from consistent screen work, choosing to focus on her family and more selectively picking projects.

Bruce Willis as Ernest Menville

Bruce Willis, at the peak of his action-hero fame, provided a grounded, somewhat bewildered presence amongst the film's fantastical elements as Ernest Menville, a plastic surgeon caught in the middle of Madeline and Helen's rivalry. His performance offered a nice counterpoint to the more flamboyant characters played by Streep and Hawn. Willis's career continued its trajectory after Death Becomes Her, solidifying his status as a leading man in action and comedic roles. His subsequent projects showcased his range and further cemented his place in Hollywood history.

Isabella Rossellini as Lisle Von Rhuman

Isabella Rossellini, playing the enigmatic and mysterious Lisle Von Rhuman, added a layer of mystique to the already unusual story. Her subtle performance perfectly complemented the film's tone. Rossellini's career, both in acting and modeling, has continued to flourish, demonstrating her versatility and enduring appeal.

The Enduring Legacy

The cast of Death Becomes Her wasn't just a collection of stars; it was a perfect blend of talent that brought Robert Zemeckis's vision to life. Each actor contributed significantly to the film's lasting impact, and their subsequent careers serve as a testament to their individual talents and enduring legacies in the entertainment industry. The film's enduring popularity speaks to the lasting power of its cast and its unique comedic sensibility.