Steel Magnolias, the beloved 1989 film about a close-knit group of women in a small Louisiana town, became an instant classic with its blend of humor, heartache, and unforgettable performances. Starring an ensemble cast of powerhouse actresses, Steel Magnolias remains a beloved film more than three decades later. But what has happened to the cast members in the 34 years since the movie was released? Let’s take a closer look at the transformation of the Steel Magnolias cast and uncover some surprising details about their lives, careers, and the challenges they’ve faced since the film’s debut.
The Cast of ‘Steel Magnolias’ (1989)
Before diving into the cast’s present-day transformations, it’s important to remember the central characters that made Steel Magnolias so iconic. The movie focuses on six women who navigate life’s ups and downs, from weddings to funerals, with the southern charm and resilience that defines their bond. The core ensemble included:
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Shelby Eatenton Latcherie – played by Julia Roberts
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M’Lynn Eatenton – played by Sally Field
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Truvy Jones – played by Dolly Parton
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Annelle Dupuy-Desoto – played by Daryl Hannah
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Ouiser Boudreaux – played by Shirley MacLaine
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Clairee Belcher – played by Olympia Dukakis
These talented actresses brought the unforgettable characters to life, and their performances continue to resonate with audiences. But what have these stars been up to since then? Let’s take a look at their personal and professional journeys since Steel Magnolias hit theaters in 1989.
Julia Roberts as Shelby Eatenton Latcherie: THEN & NOW
THEN (1989):
In Steel Magnolias, Julia Roberts played Shelby, the young woman struggling with diabetes and trying to live life on her own terms. Her heart-wrenching performance earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress, which helped solidify her status as a major Hollywood star.
NOW (2023):
Since then, Julia Roberts has become one of the most iconic actresses in Hollywood. Known for her roles in films like Pretty Woman, My Best Friend’s Wedding, and Runaway Bride, she has maintained her A-list status. Over the years, she has continued to shine in both dramatic and comedic roles, with standout performances in August: Osage County and Homecoming. She remains an advocate for various humanitarian causes and continues to be a household name in the entertainment industry.
What happened to Julia Roberts after Steel Magnolias? Julia’s life has been filled with personal joy and career success. She married cameraman Danny Moder in 2002, and they have three children. Despite the intense pressures of fame, Roberts has always prioritized her family and continues to work on projects she’s passionate about, balancing her career and personal life gracefully.
Sally Field as M’Lynn Eatenton: THEN & NOW
THEN (1989):
Sally Field played M’Lynn, the stoic, loving mother of Shelby. Her portrayal of a mother’s love, loss, and resilience was at the core of the emotional weight of the film. Sally’s performance in Steel Magnolias earned her critical praise and added another layer to her impressive career.
NOW (2023):
Sally Field has continued to be a significant force in Hollywood, starring in films like Forrest Gump, Lincoln, and Hello, My Name Is Doris. Field’s work has earned her numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards and an Emmy Award. She remains a respected actress and advocate for women’s rights.
What happened to Sally Field after Steel Magnolias? Sally’s career has continued to flourish, but she has also had her share of personal struggles, including a difficult relationship with her son, actor Sam Greisman. Still, she’s been open about her personal growth, finding happiness in both her career and her family life.
Dolly Parton as Truvy Jones: THEN & NOW
THEN (1989):
Dolly Parton played the loveable, charismatic Truvy, the hairdresser who provides both a literal and emotional salon for her friends. With her natural charm and larger-than-life persona, Dolly’s portrayal of Truvy was both comedic and heartfelt, adding a special touch to the film.
NOW (2023):
Dolly Parton is now a cultural legend—beyond her successful career in music, television, and film, she is known for her philanthropic work. Her career as a country music icon, with hits like “9 to 5” and “Jolene”, continues to thrive, and she remains a beloved figure in pop culture. Recently, Dolly has also worked on Netflix series and even started a Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library to encourage children’s literacy.
What happened to Dolly Parton after Steel Magnolias? Dolly has enjoyed decades of success in music and acting. Despite being a superstar, she has always remained grounded, and she’s continued to share her love for helping others through her charity work. Recently, she’s even been involved in new acting projects, proving her enduring talent.
Daryl Hannah as Annelle Dupuy-Desoto: THEN & NOW
THEN (1989):
Daryl Hannah’s portrayal of the quirky, faith-filled Annelle was a delightful addition to the Steel Magnolias ensemble. Her character’s journey from a troubled young woman to a more settled, confident individual brought a nice touch of transformation to the film.
NOW (2023):
Daryl Hannah’s career has shifted from mainstream acting to a more selective focus on environmental activism. She starred in a few notable films like Kill Bill but has become more involved in raising awareness about environmental issues. Daryl also married actor Neil Young in 2018, living a peaceful life outside of the Hollywood limelight.
What happened to Daryl Hannah after Steel Magnolias? After her rise to fame, Daryl Hannah found a new passion in activism, focusing on issues like climate change. She has occasionally appeared in films, but she remains mostly out of the public eye, committed to her activism and her family life with Neil Young.
Shirley MacLaine as Ouiser Boudreaux: THEN & NOW
THEN (1989):
Shirley MacLaine’s portrayal of the sarcastic and cantankerous Ouiser Boudreaux is one of the standout performances of Steel Magnolias. Ouiser’s sharp wit and prickly demeanor gave the film some of its funniest moments, but she also showed the audience her softer side.
NOW (2023):
Shirley MacLaine has continued to work in both film and television, with recent appearances in shows like The Good Wife and Downton Abbey. She’s also known for her spiritual journey, writing books and exploring topics like metaphysics.
What happened to Shirley MacLaine after Steel Magnolias? Shirley has led a fascinating life, continuing to act in various roles while also diving deep into spiritual practices. Her work in Hollywood has slowed down, but she’s still highly respected in the industry for her long and varied career.
Olympia Dukakis as Clairee Belcher: THEN & NOW
THEN (1989):
Olympia Dukakis brought Clairee, the lively, witty widow with a sharp sense of humor, to life in Steel Magnolias. Her chemistry with the other women in the group made her one of the most memorable characters in the film.
NOW (2023):
Olympia Dukakis passed away in 2021 at the age of 89. Over the years, she continued acting in both television and film, winning an Academy Award for her role in Moonstruck. Her career spanned decades, and she was beloved for her authenticity, wit, and grace.
What happened to Olympia Dukakis after Steel Magnolias? Olympia continued to work in Hollywood, making lasting impressions with her roles in Mothers and Sons and The Last of the Blonde Bombshells. Her passing in 2021 was a sad moment for her fans, but her legacy endures.
Conclusion: The Legacy of “Steel Magnolias”
It’s clear that the cast of Steel Magnolias has had very different paths since the film’s release in 1989. Some have continued to enjoy thriving careers, others have embraced activism, and sadly, one of the beloved cast members, Olympia Dukakis, is no longer with us. Regardless of their individual journeys, the impact of Steel Magnolias on both pop culture and the lives of its cast members is undeniable. Even after 34 years, the film and its ensemble of strong, resilient women continue to resonate with audiences around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Where is the cast of ‘Steel Magnolias’ now?
The cast has gone on to have varied careers, with some continuing in Hollywood, while others have focused on activism, family, or more private lives. Notably, Olympia Dukakis passed away in 2021, but many of the cast members remain icons in entertainment.
2. What happened to Julia Roberts after Steel Magnolias?
Julia Roberts became one of the most successful actresses in Hollywood, starring in films like Pretty Woman and Runaway Bride, and she remains a major A-list star with a balanced personal and professional life.
3. How did the cast of ‘Steel Magnolias’ change over time?
While many of the cast members, like Sally Field and Dolly Parton, continued to work in film and television, others like Daryl Hannah transitioned into activism, and Olympia Dukakis enjoyed a long career before passing in 2021.
4. What was Olympia Dukakis’ legacy after Steel Magnolias?
Olympia Dukakis was a respected actress known for her roles in Moonstruck and Steel Magnolias, leaving behind a legacy of powerful performances in both film and television before her death in 2021.
5. Why is ‘Steel Magnolias’ still so popular?
The film’s portrayal of female friendship, resilience, and humor has made it a timeless classic. Its strong, diverse characters continue to resonate with audiences, and the performances from the cast have made Steel Magnolias a beloved and influential film.
