Los Angeles, California — Christina Applegate recently reminisced about her role in the 1991 film Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead during an episode of her podcast, MeSsy With Christina Applegate and Jamie-Lynn Sigler. The discussion was ignited by a listener’s email expressing fondness for the movie, prompting Applegate to reflect on her initial reluctance to participate in a project she once deemed non-artistically fulfilling.
Applegate acknowledged that her feelings toward the film have changed over the years. While it failed to make a splash at the box office and received lukewarm reviews upon its release, the film has since gained a cult following. Looking back, she expressed some regret over her youthful dismissal of the experience, saying, "I didn’t want to do it, because it was a commercial film. Back then, I was all about independent movies." This perspective was colored with a touch of humor as she playfully critiqued her past attitude.
The actress revealed that, at the time, she was navigating personal challenges that added an extra layer of difficulty to the filming process. “There were some really hard days, but I loved everyone involved,” she said. Despite her initial concerns about selling out, she ended up finding joy in the role, particularly as it has remained impactful all these years later.
"I was 18 or 19 when I did it, and people are still quoting lines from that movie," Applegate noted, adding that her daughter has embraced it, too. "She loves when Sue Ellen was just ‘Swell,’ and my ring game was so rad," she shared, talking about the quirky fashion choices that defined her character.
The dialogue shifted to Applegate’s wardrobe, which included an array of bold styles paired with Dr. Martens shoes. While she has since cringed at the shoulder pads and some fashion choices, she acknowledged that the film’s unique aesthetics made it memorable. Applegate joked about the quirks of Don’t Tell Mom, particularly a scene featuring drag queens, highlighting its enduring charm and cultural relevance.
Despite her initial misgivings, Applegate said she now feels a sense of pride in the film’s legacy. “What other movie features drag queens stealing a car? It’s hilarious,” she remarked, capturing the film’s spirit with a lighthearted tone. She also shared a candid realization about the financial challenges of independent films. "You don’t make any money in those,” she said, emphasizing how her perspective on commercial cinema evolved over time.
Jamie-Lynn Sigler, co-hosting the podcast, chimed in about the financial realities of independent filmmaking, reinforcing Applegate’s sentiments. The openness of their conversation illustrates the strong bond between the two actresses as they navigate the ups and downs of their careers.
Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead has even experienced a modern revival, with a recent remake produced as a BET+ Original Film. The legacy of the original film continues to resonate, reminding fans of the lighthearted joy infused in its storytelling.
Listeners can tune into the full episode of MeSsy for more candid conversations and nostalgic reflections from the beloved stars.