Set against the backdrop of an era when professional wrestling for women faced legal prohibitions nationwide, "Queen of the Ring" tells the inspiring story of Mildred Burke, portrayed by Emily Bett Rickards. As a single mother struggling to provide for her family in a small town, Mildred defies societal norms and tackles the formidable challenges posed by a male-dominated sport. Her unwavering determination and indomitable spirit fuel her quest to not only succeed in wrestling but also to pave the way for future generations of female athletes. Through her journey, the film explores themes of empowerment, resilience, and the breaking of barriers in a world that seems set against her.
Co-starring Marie Avgeropoulos as Elvira Snodgrass, the film dives deeper into the camaraderie and rivalries that exist within the wrestling circuit. Elvira's character, a fierce competitor and ally to Mildred, offers a contrasting perspective on the challenges women face in an industry steeped in traditional masculinity. Their relationship evolves from one of competition to a supportive bond as they navigate the treacherous waters of the wrestling world together. With each match, they not only showcase their athletic prowess but also challenge the perceptions surrounding gender roles in sports and the fight for recognition in a male-centric arena.
"Queen of the Ring" vividly captures the emotional highs and lows of Mildred's journey as she rises to fame, facing both external opposition and internal struggles. As she ultimately becomes the first million-dollar female athlete in history, her story inspires audiences to reflect on the sacrifices made for ambition and the power of women to effect change. With gripping performances and a compelling narrative, the film celebrates both the personal triumphs of its characters and the larger cultural shift toward acceptance and equality in sports, making it a must-see for fans of heartwarming and impactful storytelling.
Main Cast of Queen of the Ring
Emily Bett Rickards
Mildred Burke
Emily Bett Rickards delivered a compelling performance as Mildred Burke in the film "Queen of the Ring," bringing to life the story of the pioneering female wrestler who broke barriers in the male-dominated sport during the 1930s and 1940s. Rickards adeptly captured the grit and tenacity that defined Burke, showcasing her transformation from a shy, young woman into a fierce competitor and champion. Her portrayal was marked by a raw physicality and emotional depth, as she navigated the complexities of Burke's personal struggles and her relentless pursuit of recognition and respect in professional wrestling. Rickards' performance not only highlighted the athletic prowess required for the role but also underscored the resilience and spirit of a woman who fought for her place in history, making her portrayal of Mildred Burke both inspirational and memorable.
Josh Lucas
Billy Wolfe
In the movie "Wrestling with Life: The Marla Jean Story," where the character of Billy Wolfe is portrayed by Josh Lucas, the actor brings to life the complex and often controversial figure with a nuanced performance. Lucas embodies the charismatic yet manipulative wrestling promoter with an intensity that captures the duality of Wolfe's nature. His portrayal exudes the confidence and cunning of a man who knows how to sell the spectacle of wrestling, while also hinting at the exploitative tendencies that made Wolfe a polarizing character in the history of women's wrestling. Lucas's performance is a calculated dance between the charming businessman and the unsavory opportunist, effectively capturing the essence of a bygone era in sports entertainment. He navigates the delicate balance of Wolfe's relationships with his wrestlers, particularly his tumultuous association with wrestler and Betty Mitchell Award-winning actress Marla Jean Mash, showcasing a dynamic range that holds the audience's attention and adds depth to the narrative of the film.
Tyler Posey
G. Bill
Tyler Posey delivered a compelling performance as the enigmatic and charismatic G. Bill in the movie "Queen of the Ring." His portrayal of the character brought a depth and intensity to the screen that captivated audiences. Posey's G. Bill was a complex blend of strength and vulnerability, showcasing the actor's range as he navigated the intricate dynamics of the professional wrestling world. His physicality and commitment to the role were evident, particularly in the raw and emotionally charged sequences that required a convincing portrayal of a wrestler's life both in and out of the ring. Posey's performance was pivotal in bringing authenticity to the film, as he embodied the resilience and personal struggles of his character, ultimately leaving a lasting impression on viewers and contributing to the film's impactful narrative.
Walton Goggins
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 brings a unique blend of charisma and cunning to the role, expertly capturing the essence of a shrewd and opportunistic businessman operating within the colorful and cutthroat world of professional wrestling during the 1940s and 1950s. His portrayal is marked by a sly grin and a sharp wit, as he navigates the complexities of promoting women's wrestling, often pushing ethical boundaries to draw crowds and create spectacles. Goggins's Pfefer is both a visionary and a rogue, a man ahead of his time in understanding the power of entertainment yet unafraid to employ questionable tactics to achieve his goals. His performance is a highlight of the film, adding depth and intrigue to the narrative as he interacts with the protagonist, wrestler Mildred Burke, played by Meire Henwick, influencing her rise to fame and navigating the trials and tribulations of their professional and personal relationship.
Francesca Eastwood
Mae Young
Francesca Eastwood delivers a compelling performance as Mae Young in the movie "Queen of the Ring," a gritty and inspiring portrayal of the professional wrestler's journey to success. Eastwood captures the tenacity and spirit of Young, bringing to life the wrestler's unwavering determination to break barriers in a male-dominated industry. Her portrayal is both physically demanding and emotionally resonant, showcasing Young's resilience in the face of adversity, from confronting sexism to overcoming personal tragedies. Francesca's performance is a testament to her range as an actress, as she embodies the complex character with authenticity, conveying Mae Young's blend of toughness and vulnerability. Her on-screen presence is captivating, ensuring that Mae Young's legacy as a trailblazer and icon in the world of professional wrestling is honored with depth and reverence.
Marie Avgeropoulos
Elvira Snodgrass
In the movie 'Queen of the Ring,' Marie Avgeropoulos tackles the role of Elvira Snodgrass with a captivating blend of vulnerability and tenacity. Her performance is a standout as she brings to life a character who is both the emotional core of the story and a fierce competitor in the unforgiving world of wrestling. Avgeropoulos embodies Elvira with a raw authenticity, showcasing her transformation from a shy, small-town girl into a resilient athlete who learns to navigate the complexities of fame, love, and betrayal. Her physicality in the wrestling scenes is impressive, reflecting a dedication to portraying the role with genuine athleticism. Moreover, her chemistry with the other characters, particularly in moments of personal challenge and growth, adds depth to the narrative. Avgeropoulos's portrayal of Elvira is not just about the physical battles in the ring but also the internal struggle of a woman striving to find her place in a male-dominated world, making her performance both compelling and inspirational.
Secondary Cast of Queen of the Ring
Byron Johnson II
Cassius Clay
Cameren Jackson
Marva Scott
Dean Hill
Atlanta Ring Announcer
Jett Jansen
Main Event Referee
Warren Wood
Billy Area Fan #1
Paul Robey
Billy Area Fan #2
Duffy Hudson
L.A. Times Journalist
Gus Langley
Heavy Set Jimbo
Nathaniel Jones
Spectator #1
Dallas Edwards
Carnival Referee
Richard Hagerman
Alabama Ring Announcer
Kyle Smithson
Alabama Referee
Izzy Avildsen
Joe Jr. (Toddler)
Greyson Neumann
Joe Jr. (Young)
Flynn K. Smith
Millie's Attorney
Khalid Greenaway
Jim Mitchell
Baylee Cottle
Wrestling Fan
Angelene Tania
Martini Girl
Madison Page West
Fire Performer
Crew of Queen of the Ring
Full backstage crew list →
