Michelle Pfeiffer steps back from leading film roles, prefers ensemble projects

Michelle Pfeiffer, the celebrated actress with over 40 years in Hollywood, has declared she no longer wishes to star in films. The 68-year-old star, known for iconic roles in "Scarface," "Batman Returns," and "Dangerous Minds," stated, “I don’t want to star in a movie anymore, I swear to God.”

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I don’t want to star in a movie anymore, I swear to God.

Pfeiffer’s surprising announcement came during a panel discussion hosted by The Hollywood Reporter and Apple TV+. She clarified that her preference now lies with ensemble projects, which she finds “much more fun.” This shift appears to stem from her recent work in television, including the series "The Madison" and "Call Me Fraud." Pfeiffer not only stars in these shows but also serves as an executive producer.

She lauded the strong female performances on television, noting, “I was so impressed by the female performances on television, and honestly, they are dominating television.” Pfeiffer specifically praised "Call Me Fraud," where Elle Fanning plays a single mother turning to OnlyFans to support her child. Pfeiffer portrays Fanning’s mother in the series, which also features Nick Offerman, Greg Kinnear, Michael Angarano, and Nicole Kidman.

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I just want to do ensemble projects. It’s much more fun, I love it.

Pfeiffer finds the complex, flawed characters in "Call Me Fraud" particularly compelling. She related this to a quote by Robin Williams: “Remember that every person you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about, and be kind.” This sentiment, she explained, encapsulates the series' message, and she is “very proud” to be a part of it.

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I was so impressed by the female performances on television, and honestly, they are dominating television.

Reflecting on "The Madison," a drama about a wealthy family dealing with the patriarch's death, Pfeiffer revealed she committed to the project without seeing a script. Her decision was driven by trust in screenwriter Taylor Sheridan, the creator of "Yellowstone," who reportedly cast actors before writing the roles for them. However, Pfeiffer previously described her experience filming "The Madison" as torturous, though details were not elaborated upon in this report.

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Remember that every person you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about, and be kind.