Meet the Cast of Dead Poets Society

Dead Poets Society is a powerful and inspiring movie that takes place at the prestigious Welton Academy, an all-boys boarding school located in the picturesque countryside of New England. The school is steeped in tradition and conformity, with a stern headmaster, Mr. Nolan, who expects his students to adhere to the school's strict code of conduct.

The main character of the movie is John Keating, an unconventional and passionate English teacher, played by the talented Robin Williams. Keating is a graduate of Welton Academy and has returned to teach at his alma mater. He quickly captures the attention of his students with his unique teaching style, which emphasizes the importance of self-expression, creativity, and individuality.

One of the most memorable aspects of Dead Poets Society is the way in which Keating inspires his students to form the Dead Poets Society, a secret club that meets at night in a cave to read and discuss poetry. Through this club, the students are able to break free from the constraints of their rigid educational environment and embrace their love of poetry, literature, and life. However, their rebellion against convention does not sit well with the school's administration, particularly the stern headmaster, Mr. Nolan, who views the club as a threat to the school's traditions and values.

The characters in this show include Debra Mooney, who plays Mrs. Anderson, the school's stern and traditional English teacher, and Kurtwood Smith, who plays Mr. Tom Perry, the stern headmaster of Welton Academy. These characters serve as a stark contrast to the unconventional and passionate John Keating, and their disdain for his teaching methods serves to highlight the importance of self-expression, creativity, and individuality in education.

Dead Poets Society is a movie that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt stifled by convention or societal expectations. It is a powerful reminder of the importance of following one's passions and embracing one's individuality, even in the face of adversity. Whether you are a student, a teacher, or simply a lover of movies, Dead Poets Society is a must-see film that will leave a lasting impression on all who watch it.

Full Cast of Dead Poets Society

Robin Williams

as John Keating

Robin Williams's performance as John Keating in the movie 'Dead Poets Society' is nothing short of brilliant. He brings the character to life with his charismatic presence and unmatched ability to inspire. Williams's portrayal of the unconventional English teacher who encourages his students to seize the day and find their own voice is both captivating and heartwarming. His performance is marked by a perfect balance of humor and seriousness, making him an unforgettable character in the world of cinema.

Robert Sean Leonard

as Neil Perry

Robert Sean Leonard's portrayal of Neil Perry in "Dead Poets Society" is a standout performance that showcases his incredible range as an actor. Leonard brings a sense of vulnerability and passion to the character, making him both relatable and endearing to the audience. His transformation from a timid and obedient student to a confident and rebellious young man is a testament to his talent. Leonard's chemistry with Robin Williams, who plays his inspiring English teacher, is also noteworthy, as it adds depth and authenticity to their on-screen relationship. Overall, Leonard's performance is a memorable one that leaves a lasting impression on viewers.

Ethan Hawke

as Todd Anderson

Ethan Hawke delivers a compelling and transformative performance as Todd Anderson in the acclaimed film "Dead Poets Society." As a timid, introverted freshman at an elite prep school, Todd struggles to find his voice amidst the pressures of conformity and expectation. Under the profound influence of his unconventional English teacher, Mr. Keating (played by Robin Williams), Todd gradually comes out of his shell and discovers his own unique identity. Hawke's nuanced portrayal of Todd's growth and self-realization showcases his remarkable acting range, making this performance a standout in his career.

Josh Charles

as Knox Overstreet

In the movie 'Dead Poets Society', Josh Charles delivers a compelling performance as Knox Overstreet, a character that embodies the spirit of youthful passion and romantic idealism. Charles' portrayal of Knox is both endearing and relatable, as he captures the essence of a young man caught between the expectations of his privileged upbringing and his own desires. His performance is marked by a sense of vulnerability and longing that resonates with audiences, making Knox one of the most memorable characters in the film. Charles' ability to convey the depth of Knox's emotions, particularly in his pursuit of the unattainable Chris, adds a layer of complexity to his character that elevates the overall narrative. Ultimately, Josh Charles' performance as Knox Overstreet serves as a testament to his talent as an actor and cements his place in the pantheon of iconic characters from 'Dead Poets Society'.

Gale Hansen

as Charlie Dalton

Dylan Kussman

as Richard Cameron

In the movie 'Dead Poets Society', Dylan Kussman delivers a compelling performance as Richard Cameron, a high-achieving student with a strong desire for order and conformity. Kussman's Cameron serves as a contrast to the protagonist, displaying a lack of creativity and passion, yet a hunger for power and acceptance. Kussman's portrayal is both believable and nuanced, as he captures the insecurities that often underlie a character's rigid adherence to tradition. His scenes with the charismatic and unconventional Mr. Keating, played by Robin Williams, are particularly riveting, as the two characters clash over what it means to truly live life to the fullest. Overall, Dylan Kussman's performance as Richard Cameron in 'Dead Poets Society' adds depth to the film, making it a must-watch for those interested in powerful character interactions and thought-provoking themes.

Kurtwood Smith's portrayal of Mr. Tom Perry in 'Dead Poets Society' is a standout performance. As the stern and traditional father of Neil Perry, Smith brings a sense of rigid authority that contrasts sharply with the unconventional teaching methods of John Keating. His character's resistance to his son's passion for acting underscores the film's themes of conformity and individuality. Smith's performance is a compelling study of a father who struggles to understand and accept his son's dreams, making his character's eventual transformation all the more poignant.

Carla Belver

as Mrs. Perry

Leon Pownall

as McAllister

George Martin

as Dr. Hager

Joe Aufiery

as Chemistry Teacher

Matt Carey

as Hopkins

Kevin Cooney

as Joe Danburry

Jane Moore

as Mrs. Danburry

Lara Flynn Boyle

as Ginny Danburry

Lara Flynn Boyle (born March 24, 1970) is an American actress and producer. She is best known for her role as Donna H...

Colin Irving

as Chet Danburry

Alexandra Powers

as Chris Noel

Melora Walters

as Gloria

Melora Walters delivers a memorable performance as Gloria in the classic film 'Dead Poets Society'. As the daughter of the stern and traditional headmaster, Gloria finds herself drawn to the unconventional teachings of the new English teacher, Mr. Keating. Walters expertly portrays Gloria's internal struggle between her loyalty to her father and her newfound love for poetry and self-expression. Her subtle yet powerful performance adds depth and emotion to the film, making her a standout character in this beloved classic.

Welker White

as Tina

Steve Mathios

as Steve

Alan Pottinger

as Bubba

Pamela Burrell

as Directing Teacher

Allison Hedges

as Actor / Fairy

Christine D'Ercole

as Titania

John Cunningham

as Mr. Anderson

Debra Mooney

as Mrs. Anderson

Debra Mooney's performance as Mrs. Anderson in 'Dead Poets Society' is a subtle yet powerful portrayal of a mother's love and concern. She brings a sense of warmth and understanding to the character, making her a relatable figure for the audience. Mooney's ability to convey Mrs. Anderson's inner turmoil and her struggle to understand her son's passion for poetry is truly commendable. Her interactions with Robin Williams' character, Mr. Keating, are particularly noteworthy, as they highlight the generational gap and the clash between tradition and change. Overall, Mooney's performance adds depth to the film, making it a memorable one.

John Martin Bradley

as Bagpiper

Charles Lord

as Mr. Dalton

Kurt Leitner

as Lester

Richard Stites

as Stick

James J. Christy

as Spaz

Catherine Soles

as Stage Manager

Hoover Sutton

as Welton Professor

James Donnell Quinn

as Procession Alumnus

Simon Mein

as Welton Vicar

Ashton W. Richards

as Phys. Ed. Teacher

Robert Gleason

as Father of Spaz

Bill Rowe

as Dormitory Porter

Robert J. Zigler III

as Beans

Keith Snyder

as Russell

Nicholas K. Gilhool

as Shroom

Jonas Stiklorius

as Jonas

Craig Johnson

as Dewey

Chris Hull

as Ace

Jason Woody

as Woodsie

Sam Stegeman

as Sam

Andrew Hill

as Senior Student

Jamie Kennedy

as (uncredited)

Kate Kearney-Patch

as Mother in Opening Scene (uncredited)

Jeffrey Santoro

as Public School Student (uncredited)

Crew of Dead Poets Society

Discover the backstage crew of Dead Poets Society →

Dead Poets Society