Meet the Cast of Queen of the Ring

Released on October 25, 2024
Drama America / United States Biography - Non-Fiction 1950s

In "Queen of the Ring," viewers are introduced to the captivating life of Mildred Burke, portrayed by Emily Bett Rickards. A burgeoning talent in the world of wrestling, Mildred begins her journey as a waitress, where she first develops a passion for the sport upon attending a wrestling match. The high-octane atmosphere and thrilling competition capture her imagination, igniting a fierce desire to make her mark in a male-dominated arena. As she navigates the challenges of breaking into wrestling, her journey from an ordinary job to becoming a pioneer in the sport sets the stage for an inspiring tale of resilience and ambition.

Mildred's ascent in the wrestling world is not just defined by her skill in the ring, but also her determination to shatter societal norms surrounding femininity. She earns the title of the longest reigning champion in female wrestling, and her prowess is further highlighted when she competes against male wrestlers, proving that she is a formidable opponent. The film paints a vivid picture of her struggles, triumphs, and the relentless spirit that defines her character. Through her matches, Mildred becomes a symbol of empowerment, walking the fine line between being a beautiful woman and a fierce brawler, challenging stereotypes and inspiring generations of female athletes.

Alongside Mildred's journey, the film features the character Elvira Snodgrass, played by Marie Avgeropoulos, who adds depth and complexity to the narrative. Elvira serves as both a friend and rival, representing the multifaceted dynamics of female competition in sports. Their interactions illuminate the personal sacrifices and camaraderie that exist alongside fierce rivalry. "Queen of the Ring" ultimately celebrates not only the achievements of women in wrestling but also their stories of friendship, rivalry, and the collective fight for recognition in a sport that is often seen as reserved for men. With its rich character development and powerful themes, the movie promises to resonate with audiences, showcasing the profound impact of one woman's fight for her place in the ring.

Full Cast of Queen of the Ring

Emily Bett Rickards

as Mildred Burke

Emily Bett Rickards delivered a powerhouse performance as Mildred Burke in the movie "Queen of the Ring," capturing the essence of the trailblazing wrestler with a blend of grit, vulnerability, and tenacity. Rickards convincingly portrayed Burke's ascension from a humble start to becoming a wrestling icon, showcasing her transformation through rigorous physical training and an unwavering dedication to her craft. Her portrayal delved into the complexities of Burke's personal struggles, including her tumultuous relationship with her mentor Billy Wolfe, played by David Arquette, and the challenges she faced in a male-dominated industry. Rickards' performance was not just about the physicality of wrestling; she brought depth to Burke's emotional journey, highlighting her resilience in the face of adversity and her relentless pursuit of respect and recognition in the wrestling world. Her nuanced acting allowed audiences to empathize with Burke's fight for equality and her legacy as a pioneer who paved the way for future generations of female athletes.

Marie Avgeropoulos

as Elvira Snodgrass

Marie Avgeropoulos delivered a compelling performance as Elvira Snodgrass in the movie 'Queen of the Ring,' a modern adaptation of the classic tale of Faust. Her portrayal of Elvira, a character who is both vulnerable and fierce, showcases her versatility as an actress. Avgeropoulos brought depth to the role, capturing the internal struggle of a woman torn between her ambitions and the moral consequences of her actions. As Elvira forms a pact with the devil, played by Ryan Kwanten, to achieve her dreams of becoming a professional wrestler, Avgeropoulos's performance is marked by a raw intensity that anchors the film's darkly comedic and surreal narrative. Her physicality and commitment to the wrestling scenes are impressive, while her emotional range lends authenticity to Elvira's transformation and ultimate redemption. Marie Avgeropoulos's portrayal is a standout, providing the film with a captivating lead performance that resonates with the themes of power, identity, and the price of success.

Walton Goggins

as Jack Pfefer

Walton Goggins delivers a captivating performance as Jack Pfefer in the movie "Queen of the Ring," a character loosely based on the real-life wrestling promoter Jack Pfefer. Goggins embodies Pfefer with a magnetic blend of charisma and cunning, bringing to life the complexities of a man who played a pivotal role in shaping the world of professional wrestling. His portrayal is marked by a keen sense of showmanship and an understanding of the sport's theatrical nature, which he uses to manipulate and navigate the tumultuous terrain of the wrestling industry during its formative years. Goggins' Pfefer is both a visionary and a rogue, Using his wits to outmaneuver competitors and carve out a niche for women in the sport, all while grappling with his own personal demons and the moral ambiguities of his actions. His performance is a highlight of the film, as he skillfully balances the character's ambition and vulnerability, making Pfefer a compelling and memorable figure in the narrative of "Queen of the Ring."

Josh Lucas

as Billy Wolfe

In the movie "Queen of the Ring," Josh Lucas delivers a compelling performance as Billy Wolfe, the shrewd and ambitious promoter who becomes deeply entangled in the rise of female wrestling during the 1940s and 1950s. Lucas embodies the complex character of Wolfe with a charismatic intensity, portraying him as both a visionary and a rogue. He adeptly captures Wolfe's almost magnetic charm, which is as alluring to the audience as it is to the characters within the story. Lucas's Wolfe is a man driven by a mix of genuine affection for the sport and a relentless pursuit of profit, often blurring the lines between mentor and exploiter. His performance is nuanced, revealing the multifaceted nature of Wolfe's relationships with the women he manages, particularly with the film's protagonist, Mildred Burke, played by Meiere Grove. Lucas's portrayal is pivotal in exploring the dynamics of power, gender, and business in the golden age of professional wrestling, making his rendition of Billy Wolfe a memorable and thought-provoking element of the film.

Gavin Casalegno

as Burke's Son

In the poignant film "Queen of the Ring," Gavin Casalegno delivers a compelling performance as Burke's Son, a character entwined in the complex dynamics of a family grappling with the harsh realities of boxing life. Casalegno embodies the role with a nuanced sensitivity that captures the internal struggle of a young man caught between the expectations of his father, a seasoned boxing coach played by Martin Sensmeier, and his own burgeoning identity. His portrayal is a delicate balance of vulnerability and resilience, showcasing the emotional depth of a son striving to meet his father's lofty ambitions while navigating the pressures of a world defined by strength and masculinity. Through Casalegno's performance, audiences witness a character who is both a product of his environment and an individual with his own dreams and apprehensions, making his role as Burke's Son not only memorable but also a critical emotional anchor in the narrative of "Queen of the Ring."

Kelli Berglund

as Nell Stewart

Kelli Berglund delivers a compelling performance as Nell Stewart in the film 'Queen of the Ring', adeptly capturing the essence of a young woman torn between her passion for wrestling and the societal expectations of the 1980s. Berglund imbues Nell with a fiery spirit and tenacious determination, making her quest to break into the male-dominated world of professional wrestling both believable and inspiring. Her portrayal is nuanced, showcasing Nell's vulnerability as she faces gender discrimination and her unwavering resolve to challenge the status quo. Berglund's physicality in the wrestling scenes is impressive, demonstrating her commitment to embodying the role fully. Moreover, her chemistry with the rest of the cast adds depth to the film's exploration of themes such as identity, ambition, and the transformative power of dreams. Kelli Berglund's performance is not only a testament to her range as an actress but also serves as a powerful catalyst for the film's message of empowerment and perseverance.