It’s been 35 years since Steel Magnolias hit theaters, and its unforgettable blend of humor, heartbreak, and Southern charm still resonates with audiences today. But behind the iconic characters and unforgettable performances, there’s a fascinating story about the woman who stood in for Dolly Parton on set. If you’ve ever wondered about the intricacies of making a movie like Steel Magnolias or what it’s like to fill in for a larger-than-life star like Dolly, then you’re in for a treat.
Today, Dolly Parton’s stand-in, the woman who stepped into her shoes on set, opens up about the experience, what it was like working with such a legendary cast, and the unique challenges of playing a role made famous by someone so beloved. Let’s take a stroll down memory lane and discover what it was really like to be part of the magic of Steel Magnolias.
A Timeless Classic: The Impact of ‘Steel Magnolias’
Released in 1989, Steel Magnolias is a film that has stood the test of time. Based on Robert Harling’s play, the film explores the lives of a group of women in a small Southern town, capturing their joys, heartbreaks, and everything in between. It became an instant classic due to its incredible performances and powerful themes of friendship, loss, and resilience. And, of course, the star power of the cast—Dolly Parton, Sally Field, Shirley MacLaine, and Olympia Dukakis—brought the film to life in ways that still feel fresh today.
But behind the scenes, there was another important player: Dolly Parton’s stand-in. While most people are familiar with the dazzling performances of the main cast, the stand-in role is often overlooked. In this case, Dolly Parton’s stand-in helped bring the magic of the film to life in a way that no one expected.
Who Was Dolly Parton’s Stand-In for ‘Steel Magnolias’?
Dolly Parton, who played Truvy Jones, the spunky beauty salon owner in Steel Magnolias, needed a stand-in for the technical aspects of the production. A stand-in’s job is to take the place of the actor during technical rehearsals, camera setups, and lighting adjustments before the actor steps into the scene. In essence, a stand-in is there to help the crew perfect everything visually, allowing the star to come in only when everything’s ready.
Dolly Parton’s stand-in, in this case, was a talented actress and stuntwoman named Kathy Schreiber. Schreiber had worked as a stand-in on several productions before, but Steel Magnolias was her most memorable role due to the uniqueness of working with a star like Dolly. With her striking resemblance to Dolly, Schreiber was tasked with embodying Parton’s physical presence, even though she wasn’t playing the role herself. This led to some fascinating behind-the-scenes stories that Schreiber is now happy to share, reflecting on the magical experience she had during the filming of this iconic movie.
Life as Dolly Parton’s Stand-In: What Was It Like?
The Challenges of Stepping Into Dolly Parton’s Shoes
When Kathy Schreiber first stepped into the role of Dolly’s stand-in, she was understandably a bit nervous. Dolly Parton is not only an American icon but also a larger-than-life personality. How could anyone possibly stand in for someone like Dolly, who brings so much of her own charm and energy to everything she does?
For Schreiber, the key was to replicate Dolly’s body language and posture. Dolly’s character, Truvy, is known for her sassy and outgoing nature, and Schreiber needed to embody that energy. However, standing in for such an iconic figure came with its challenges. It wasn’t just about looking like Dolly, but capturing the essence of her character—the subtle movements, the way she interacted with others, and even her posture.
Schreiber recalls a particularly humorous moment when she first met Dolly on set. “I remember standing in for Dolly for a scene, and when she walked in, she immediately said, ‘Well, I can see you’ve been practicing the hair flips!’” Dolly’s warmth and humor immediately put Schreiber at ease. While the job of a stand-in can be quite technical and often requires a lot of patience, Schreiber appreciated Dolly’s kindness and understanding throughout the process.
Working With Dolly’s Iconic Look
One of the most unforgettable elements of Dolly Parton’s portrayal of Truvy in Steel Magnolias is her signature look—big hair, bold fashion, and lots of glam. As a stand-in, Kathy Schreiber had to ensure that she not only replicated Dolly’s appearance but also understood how to carry herself with the same poise and confidence that made Dolly so memorable.
Schreiber laughs as she recalls how the crew would sometimes joke that they had to “put more hairspray on me” to match Dolly’s voluminous, perfectly styled hair. It was a team effort to get the look just right for the scenes. This attention to detail wasn’t just about costume and hair; it was about fully immersing herself in the role and making sure every shot was perfect before Dolly entered the scene.
What Dolly Parton Was Really Like On Set
While Kathy Schreiber may have been the stand-in for Dolly, she couldn’t help but be in awe of Dolly’s presence on set. Known for her sweet demeanor and quick wit, Dolly was exactly how you would expect her to be—warm, funny, and effortlessly charismatic.
Schreiber remembers how Dolly would always brighten up the room with her contagious energy. Despite her fame, Dolly was incredibly down-to-earth and approachable. She made it clear that she appreciated the hard work of everyone on set, from the crew to the stand-ins. “She was always so kind and willing to give you a little piece of herself,” Schreiber says. “You never felt like you were just a stand-in; you felt like you were part of the family.”
For Schreiber, working with Dolly Parton on Steel Magnolias was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. She admired Dolly’s ability to juggle her acting career with her other ventures, such as her music career, while still managing to be a loving and supportive colleague to everyone around her.
The Lasting Impact of ‘Steel Magnolias’
The Film’s Timeless Legacy
It’s hard to believe that 35 years have passed since Steel Magnolias made its debut, but its impact is still felt today. The film continues to inspire audiences with its powerful portrayal of friendship, family, and resilience. The characters, the dialogue, and the performances are all etched in the hearts of viewers, and the film has become a cultural touchstone for women everywhere.
Dolly Parton’s portrayal of Truvy Jones remains one of her most beloved roles, and Kathy Schreiber’s contributions as her stand-in have ensured that the film’s technical aspects were handled with care and precision. While Schreiber may not have received the same level of attention as Dolly, her role in the success of Steel Magnolias is undeniable.
A Glimpse Into Dolly’s Enduring Influence
Dolly Parton has since become more than just a country music legend—she’s a global icon whose influence stretches beyond the entertainment industry. From philanthropy to her advocacy for education and social issues, Dolly has used her platform for good, leaving an indelible mark on the world. Her role in Steel Magnolias will always be a significant part of her legacy, thanks to the impact it had on both her fans and the cast and crew who worked alongside her.
Conclusion: A Story of Strength, Sisterhood, and Legacy
35 years after Steel Magnolias first graced the silver screen, it’s clear that the film has left an everlasting imprint on both popular culture and those who were fortunate enough to be involved in its creation. Dolly Parton’s stand-in, Kathy Schreiber, played a pivotal yet often unrecognized role in bringing the film’s magic to life, and her reflections on the experience offer an intriguing behind-the-scenes look at the making of a beloved classic.
As we look back on this iconic film, we are reminded of the powerful themes that continue to resonate with audiences today: the strength of women, the importance of friendship, and the ability to find joy even in the face of adversity. Steel Magnolias will forever be a testament to these truths, and the memories from that time continue to inspire both fans and the talented individuals who helped make the film so unforgettable.
5 FAQs About Dolly Parton’s Stand-In and ‘Steel Magnolias’
1. Who was Dolly Parton’s stand-in for ‘Steel Magnolias’?
Dolly Parton’s stand-in for Steel Magnolias was Kathy Schreiber, an experienced actress and stuntwoman who helped with technical rehearsals anda
