PHOTOS: ‘Steel Magnolias’ Cast Then & Now

Released in 1989, “Steel Magnolias” brought together an unforgettable ensemble of stars in a heartfelt comedy-drama about friendship, love, loss, and resilience in a small Southern town. Directed by Herbert Ross and adapted from the play by Robert Harling, the film starred Sally Field, Dolly Parton, Shirley MacLaine, Daryl Hannah, Olympia Dukakis, and Julia Roberts. We also had a supporting cast, including Tom Skerritt and Dylan McDermott.

Many of the “Steel Magnolias” cast were already established talents or soon would become major Hollywood names. Ever wondered what they all look like now compared to how they did back when “Steel Magnolias” was released? It’s time to find out!

Sally Field (M’Lynn Eatenton)

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We saw perfection with Sally Field in her role as M’Lynn Eatenton. She portrayed the devoted mother navigating joy and heartbreak, according to IMDb.

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Since this role, Field, who is 79 years old now, has remained a respected figure in Hollywood. She went on to win multiple Oscars and continued to act in film, TV, and on stage. Field is known for her roles in “Lincoln,” “Forrest Gump,” and the Broadway revival of “The Glass Menagerie.” She has also released a memoir, “In Pieces.”

Dolly Parton (Truvy Jones)

Dolly Parton’s character, Truvy Jones, provided the spot where all the ladies could come together. The Bubbly beauty-shop owner offered comic relief and warmth.

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Of course, Parton, who is also currently 79 years old, remains a cultural icon. She balanced music and film work while also expanding her brand with projects like Dolly Parton’s Heartstrings. She also continues to perform and record music with global acclaim, despite recent health concerns.

Shirley MacLaine (Ouiser Boudreaux)

As the quirky Ouiser Boudreaux, Shirley MacLaine brought her trademark humor and edge to “Steel Magnolias.” Has there ever been another character with better one-liners than Ouiser?

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MacLaine, currently 91 years old, continued to act, including starring in a couple of episodes of “Only Murders in the Building” in 2022. She recently received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Dance Hall of Fame. She’s appeared on series such as “Glee”  and “Downton Abbey.”

Daryl Hannah (Annelle Dupuy Desoto)

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The “Splash” star played Annelle Dupuy-DeSoto. She was the shy newcomer who grew in confidence through the film after landing a job at Truvy’s beauty shop.

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Hannah, now 65 years old, has maintained a varied career in both film and television. She has appeared in projects like “Sense8” and “Kill Bill.” She has also become a vocal environmental activist and occasional director.

Olympia Dukakis (Clairee Belcher)

Olympia Dukakis was a favorite for viewers as she played spunky Clairee Belcher. Clairee was a sharp-witted widow and friend to Ouiser.

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Dukakis continued acting into her late years, with work in film and theater. In 2021, she passed away at the age of 89. She left behind a legacy, which included an Academy Award for her role in “Moonstruck.”

Julia Roberts (Shelby Eatenton Latcherie)

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“Steel Magnolias” was a breakout role for Julia Roberts. Roberts was nominated for an Oscar for her portrayal of Shelby Eatenton-Latcherie, the movie’s beloved bride-to-be.

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Roberts, now 58 years old, went on to become one of Hollywood’s biggest stars. She won an Oscar for her starring role in “Erin Brockovich” in 2000. She also starred in hits like “Pretty Woman,” “My Best Friend’s Wedding,” “Eat Pray Love,” and the “Ocean’s” series.

Tom Skerritt (Drum Eatenton)

Some of the standouts from the supporting cast of “Steel Magnolias” include Tom Skerritt. He played Drum Eatenton, M’Lynn’s steady and supportive husband and the father of the bride-to-be.

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Skerritt, now 92 years old, continued his prolific career in film and TV. His career includes guest roles on shows like “Madam Secretary” and “The Good Wife,” as well as appearances in movies such as “A Hologram for the King” and “Journey Back to Christmas.”

Dylan McDermott (Jackson Latcherie)

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This was another one of those standouts from the supporting cast. Dyland McDermott played Shelby’s husband, Jackson Latcherie. This was one of his early memorable performances.

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McDermott, who is now 64 years old, went on to become a recognizable face on television with roles in “The Practice,” “American Horror Story,” and recent crime dramas like “FBI: Most Wanted” and “Law & Order: Organized Crime.”

More than three decades later, “Steel Magnolias” lives on as that comfort watch, thanks in large part to this amazing cast. Each performance captured a moment in time. Like the magnolias at its center, the movie and its stars remain resilient, unforgettable, and deeply rooted in Hollywood history. May Olympia Dukakis rest in eternal peace.

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