Cast and Crew of Salem's Lot

Salem's Lot

'Salem's Lot' follows author Ben Mears, portrayed by Lewis Pullman, as he returns to his eerie childhood hometown of Jerusalem's Lot, where he uncovers a sinister secret: the town is under siege by a bloodthirsty vampire. Makenzie Leigh stars as Susan Norton, one of the residents caught in the horrifying events. The story blends classic horror with a gripping narrative about confronting darkness both external and internal.

Trivia:
1. The miniseries draws from Stephen King's 1975 novel, bringing to life a story that inspired countless vampire tales and has been adapted multiple times, but this version stands out for its faithful adherence to the book's atmosphere.
2. Lewis Pullman, known for his versatility, took on the role of Ben Mears to explore a character battling both personal demons and supernatural ones, adding depth to the horror genre.
3. Filming in authentic New England locations helped capture the chilling, isolated feel of Jerusalem's Lot, enhancing the show's eerie ambiance and connecting viewers more deeply to the unsettling mood of the narrative.

Main Cast of Salem's Lot

Lewis Pullman as Ben Mears

Lewis Pullman

Ben Mears
Lewis Pullman delivers a compelling and nuanced performance as Ben Mears in the 2023 adaptation of Stephen King's "Salem's Lot." As the central character, Pullman adeptly balances the complexities of Mears' trauma-ridden past with his current role as a seasoned journalist returning to his hometown to write about the eerie Marsten House. Pullman's portrayal is both raw and understated, capturing the character's inner turmoil and determination. His on-screen presence is magnetic, drawing viewers into Mears' psychological journey as he confronts the unspeakable horrors that begin to plague the small town of Jerusalem's Lot. Pullman's chemistry with the rest of the cast is palpable, particularly in his interactions with the town's residents and his romantic interest, Susan Norton, played by Makenzie Leigh. His transformation from a somewhat skeptical writer to a valiant protagonist fighting against the spread of vampirism is both believable and emotionally resonant. Lewis Pullman's embodiment of Ben Mears is a testament to his range as an actor, and his performance stands as a highlight of the film, providing a human anchor in the midst of supernatural chaos. His portrayal not only honors the spirit of King's original character but also elevates the film with a sense of authenticity and depth that is sure to leave a lasting impression on audiences.
Makenzie Leigh as Susan Norton

Makenzie Leigh

Susan Norton
Makenzie Leigh delivers a compelling performance as Susan Norton in the 2023 adaptation of Stephen King's " 'Salem's Lot." As the steadfast girlfriend of Ben Mears, portrayed by Lewis Pullman, Leigh brings a warm and genuine presence to the screen, effectively capturing the essence of a small-town girl with a bright future ahead of her. Her portrayal is nuanced, balancing youthful innocence with an underlying strength that becomes increasingly evident as the supernatural darkness of Jerusalem's Lot begins to unfold. Leigh's chemistry with Pullman is palpable, grounding their relationship in a relatable affection that makes the stakes of the horror that follows all the more harrowing. As the plot thickens, Leigh's Susan transitions from a supportive partner to a figure of resilience, her performance intensifying as she confronts the escalating terror. Her ability to convey authentic emotion and fear adds depth to the film, ensuring that Susan's journey from love to desperation resonates with the audience, making her a standout character in this chilling adaptation of King's classic tale.
Alfre Woodard as Dr. Cody

Alfre Woodard

Dr. Cody
Alfre Woodard delivers a compelling performance as Dr. Cody in the 1979 television adaptation of Stephen King's "Salem's Lot," directed by Tobe Hooper. As the local physician, Woodard infuses the character with a grounded sense of compassion and practicality, serving as a beacon of reason in the face of the town's escalating supernatural horrors. Her portrayal is notable for its depth and warmth, providing a humanistic counterpoint to the encroaching darkness. Dr. Cody's role evolves from that of a skeptical observer to a courageous ally in the fight against the ancient evil that has infiltrated Jerusalem's Lot. Woodard's performance is a standout, as she brings a sense of authenticity and resilience to the screen, anchoring the film's emotional stakes amidst its chilling atmosphere. Her interactions with the other characters, particularly with the protagonist, Ben Mears, played by David Soul, are marked by a genuine concern that resonates with the audience, making the viewer invest in their struggle for survival against the vampiric scourge. Woodard's nuanced acting ensures that Dr. Cody is remembered as a vital and heroic figure in this classic horror tale.
Jordan Preston Carter as Mark Petrie

Jordan Preston Carter

Mark Petrie

Crew of Salem's Lot

Full backstage crew list →