Mary Stuart Masterson — the actress who charmed audiences in some of the most iconic films of the 1990s — is making her way back to the big screen after years focusing on TV, theatre, and directing. Best known for her heartfelt performances in Fried Green Tomatoes and Benny & Joon, the 59-year-old has now signed on for an exciting new project alongside Nicola Peltz and Paul Rudd.
From Garden Relaxation to Hollywood Buzz
Fans recently got a glimpse of Mary in a relaxed and down-to-earth Instagram Story, showing her enjoying a quiet day in her garden.
But behind the scenes, she’s been busy lining up new acting roles, signalling a gentle but determined return to Hollywood.
While she’s stepped away from high-profile movie roles in recent years, her work in indie dramas and advocacy for mental health and arts education has kept her firmly in the public’s heart.
Hollywood Breakout and Lasting Impact
Mary’s career exploded in the late ’80s and early ’90s with memorable performances in cult favourites like Some Kind of Wonderful and Bad Girls.
But it was 1991’s Fried Green Tomatoes — where she played the fiercely loyal Idgie Threadgoode — that cemented her as a Hollywood favourite.
The film grossed over $119 million worldwide and earned two Oscar nominations, making her one of the era’s most recognisable faces.
A Career Beyond the Big Screen
While her Hollywood heyday was unforgettable, Mary has since expanded her career to include directing, theatre, and running her own film production company.
She’s also appeared in projects like Five Nights at Freddy’s and The Senior, proving her ability to adapt to both indie and mainstream storytelling.
A New Indie Drama with Paul Rudd
Mary is reuniting with audiences in the indie drama Rain Reign, where she stars alongside Paul Rudd.
The project marks another step in her quiet but steady return to film, blending her talent for emotional nuance with compelling, character-driven narratives.
Joining Nicola Peltz in Pretty Ugly
Next up, Mary is set to appear in Pretty Ugly, an Erica Dunton–directed thriller set in North Carolina.
The story follows the fragile relationship between a mother and daughter, tested by the sudden reappearance of a bold makeup influencer, played by Nicola Peltz.
Mary takes on the role of the mother, whose own obsession with grisly true crime podcasts mirrors her daughter’s immersion in the world of beauty influencers.
Small-Town Secrets and Dark Twists
Set in the quiet town of Winnabow, the film explores themes of obsession, identity, and the darker side of the American Dream.
When the influencer returns from Los Angeles, the family’s life takes a sharp, unsettling turn, spiralling into murder and deceit.
Sharing the Experience with Fans
Mary shared her excitement for the role on Instagram, admitting she was “slow to post” the news but deeply proud of the project.
She praised the Wilmington, NC crew and teased that viewers “won’t believe” the trouble her movie daughter and Nicola’s character get into.
Nicola responded warmly, calling Mary “incredible” and expressing her own excitement about the collaboration.
Nicola Peltz’s Off-Screen Headlines
While working on the film, Nicola has also been in the spotlight for personal reasons, with rumours of tension between her and husband Brooklyn Beckham’s family.
Reports suggest Brooklyn has grown distant from his famous parents, particularly after skipping his father David Beckham’s 50th birthday celebrations.
Social media unfollows — and even alleged blocking between Brooklyn, Nicola, and his younger brothers — have added fuel to the family drama.
A Return Worth Watching
For fans of Mary Stuart Masterson, this comeback offers a chance to see one of the ’90s most beloved stars in a fresh, edgy role.
With Pretty Ugly promising drama both on and off the screen, audiences can expect a gripping performance from an actress who knows how to blend warmth, complexity, and quiet intensity.