Ryan Murphy’s anthology series Feud: Bette and Joan (2017) captivated audiences with its compelling storytelling, stunning production, and a cast that brought Hollywood’s most infamous rivalry to life. Chronicling the bitter feud between Bette Davis and Joan Crawford during the filming of Whatever Happened to Baby Jane?, this series gave viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the tumultuous relationship between two iconic stars. Let’s dive into the exceptional cast that made this show a must-watch.
1. Jessica Lange as Joan Crawford
Jessica Lange delivered a powerhouse performance as the glamorous yet deeply insecure Joan Crawford. Lange portrayed Crawford’s vulnerabilities, ambition, and struggles with aging in a youth-obsessed industry with incredible nuance.
Her ability to show both the strength and fragility of Crawford earned her widespread acclaim, solidifying her place as one of the greatest actresses of her generation.
2. Susan Sarandon as Bette Davis
Susan Sarandon brought the bold, brash, and fiercely talented Bette Davis to life with remarkable authenticity. Sarandon’s performance captured Davis’s sharp wit, determination, and unwillingness to be overshadowed by anyone — not even Crawford.
Sarandon’s portrayal of Davis was both captivating and layered, highlighting the actress’s genius and the struggles she faced in maintaining relevance in Hollywood.
3. Alfred Molina as Robert Aldrich
Alfred Molina portrayed Whatever Happened to Baby Jane? director Robert Aldrich, the man caught between two Hollywood titans. His performance added depth to the series, showing Aldrich’s attempts to navigate the chaos of working with Davis and Crawford while dealing with his own career pressures.
4. Stanley Tucci as Jack Warner
Stanley Tucci played Jack Warner, the head of Warner Bros. Studios, who capitalized on the rivalry between Davis and Crawford to promote the film. Tucci’s portrayal perfectly captured Warner’s shrewd, opportunistic nature, adding a layer of sharp wit and humor to the series.
5. Judy Davis as Hedda Hopper
Judy Davis took on the role of legendary gossip columnist Hedda Hopper. As one of the most influential voices in Hollywood at the time, Hopper stirred the pot and amplified the feud between Davis and Crawford. Davis’s performance was biting, charismatic, and deliciously entertaining.
6. Jackie Hoffman as Mamacita
Jackie Hoffman stole scenes as Mamacita, Joan Crawford’s loyal housekeeper and confidante. Hoffman’s performance added both humor and heart to the series, making Mamacita one of the show’s most memorable characters.
7. Catherine Zeta-Jones as Olivia de Havilland
Catherine Zeta-Jones played Olivia de Havilland, a close friend of Bette Davis who offered perspective on the feud. Zeta-Jones brought grace and charm to the role, serving as a narrator for parts of the story.
8. Sarah Paulson as Geraldine Page
Sarah Paulson made a brief but impactful appearance as Geraldine Page, another Hollywood actress navigating the challenges of aging in the industry. Paulson’s role, though small, highlighted the pressures faced by women in Hollywood.
9. Kiernan Shipka as B.D. Hyman
Kiernan Shipka portrayed Bette Davis’s daughter, B.D. Hyman. The show explored the complicated relationship between Davis and Hyman, adding emotional weight to Davis’s storyline.
10. Dominic Burgess as Victor Buono
Dominic Burgess played Victor Buono, the actor who starred alongside Davis and Crawford in Whatever Happened to Baby Jane?. His performance added humor and a touch of humanity to the series.
Why the Cast Shined
The cast of Feud: Bette and Joan didn’t just play their roles; they embodied the characters. From the glamour of old Hollywood to the raw emotion of the stars’ personal struggles, each actor delivered a performance that was authentic, powerful, and unforgettable.
Final Thoughts
Feud: Bette and Joan isn’t just a tale of rivalry; it’s a tribute to two iconic actresses and the challenges they faced in a changing Hollywood. The cast’s incredible performances brought this story to life, making it one of the most talked-about shows of 2017.
Whether you’re a fan of classic Hollywood or just love a good drama, Feud: Bette and Joan and its stellar cast are a must-watch!
