Cast and Crew of Titanic

Titanic

"Titanic," directed by James Cameron, captivates audiences with its tragic love story set against the backdrop of one of history's most infamous maritime disasters. The film follows the tumultuous journey of Julia Sturges, portrayed by the talented Barbara Stanwyck, who, feeling trapped in an unhappy marriage, makes the bold decision to leave her troubled life behind and embark on an adventure to America with her two children. Julia’s desperation for freedom and a fresh start leads her to book a ticket on the opulent Titanic, a ship that symbolizes hope and new beginnings. Meanwhile, her estranged husband, Richard Ward Sturges, played by Clifton Webb, seeks to reconcile their differences by ensuring he also has passage on the luxury liner. His ulterior motive is clear: he wants to assert his custody rights over their children amidst their crumbling marriage.

As the Titanic sails into history, the lives of Julia and Richard intertwine with other passengers, each with their own dreams and aspirations, providing a rich tapestry of stories that highlight the societal divides of the era. The grandeur of the ship offers a temporary escape, yet the tension between Julia and Richard continues to build, heightened by the presence of regret and unresolved feelings. Audience members witness moments of hope amidst the backdrop of class struggles as Julia navigates her relationships on board, yearning for a sense of independence while also grappling with the responsibilities of motherhood. The ship, often referred to as "unsinkable," becomes a character in itself, representing both luxury and impending doom.

However, the opulence of the Titanic is shattered when it sails into an iceberg, plunging the lives of its passengers into chaos. In the face of disaster, Julia must confront her feelings for Richard while trying to protect her children from the unfolding tragedy. The film masterfully intertwines personal strife with historical events, leaving the audience breathless as the ship sinks beneath the icy waters. As relationships are tested and lives are ultimately lost, Julia's desire for freedom culminates in a desperate fight for survival, demonstrating the human spirit's resilience against the odds. "Titanic" remains not only a story of love and loss but also a poignant reminder of the fragility of life.

Full Cast of Titanic

Barbara Stanwyck as Julia Sturges

Barbara Stanwyck

Julia Sturges
Barbara Stanwyck delivered a poised and nuanced performance as Julia Sturges in the 1953 film "Titanic," directed by Jean Negulesco. Portraying a mother desperate to protect her children and escape her estranged husband, Richard Sturges, played by Clifton Webb, Stanwyck's Julia is a pillar of strength and determination amidst the backdrop of the ill-fated voyage. Her performance is marked by an understated elegance and a resilient spirit, capturing the essence of a woman of her time who finds herself in extraordinary circumstances. As the ship begins its fateful descent, Stanwyck's portrayal of Julia's courage and maternal instincts shine, guiding her children to safety with a composure that belies the chaos around them. Her ability to convey deep emotion with subtlety and grace elevates the character beyond the typical damsel in distress, making Julia Sturges an embodiment of stoic heroism and one of Stanwyck's most memorable roles.
Robert Wagner as Gifford "Giff" Rogers

Robert Wagner

Gifford "Giff" Rogers
Robert Wagner delivered a memorable performance as Gifford "Giff" Rogers in the 1953 film "Titanic," directed by Jean Negulesco. Wagner skillfully portrayed the charming and carefree young playboy, whose character is central to the film's exploration of love and social class aboard the ill-fated voyage of the RMS Titanic. His portrayal of Giff captures the essence of a man who, despite his outwardly carefree demeanor, grapples with the expectations of his affluent background and the pressures of his impending marriage to a wealthy heiress, played by Audrey Dalton. Wagner's performance is nuanced, as he conveys Giff's internal conflict and his burgeoning love for the independent and spirited Barbara Stanwyck character, Julia Sturges. Audiences are drawn to Wagner's depiction of Giff's transformation from a self-absorbed socialite to a man who finds depth and courage in the face of disaster, embodying the resilience and humanity that emerges in the film's tragic climax. Wagner's chemistry with both Dalton and Stanwyck, as well as his ability to balance charm with vulnerability, makes his portrayal of Giff one of the standout performances in this classic retelling of the Titanic's maiden and final voyage.
Audrey Dalton as Annette Sturges

Audrey Dalton

Annette Sturges
Audrey Dalton delivered a memorable performance as Annette Sturges in the 1953 drama "Titanic," directed by Jean Negulesco. As the daughter of a wealthy family, Dalton's portrayal of Annette is a blend of youthful naivety and burgeoning sophistication. Her character's journey from a carefree socialite to a survivor facing the harsh realities of the tragic sinking of the RMS Titanic is conveyed with a depth of emotion that resonates with the audience. Dalton's performance is highlighted by her ability to express the stark transition from luxury to desperation, showcasing her character's inner strength and vulnerability. Her interactions with co-star Robert Wagner, who plays her love interest, add a poignant romantic subplot to the unfolding disaster, and her scenes of distress and bravery contribute to the film's emotional gravitas. Audrey Dalton's Annette Sturges stands as a testament to the human spirit's resilience in the face of unimaginable catastrophe.
Thelma Ritter as Maude Young

Thelma Ritter

Maude Young
Thelma Ritter's portrayal of Maude Young in the 1953 film "Titanic" is a standout performance that brings depth and heart to the historical drama. As the unsinkable ship sets sail, Ritter embodies Maude with a steely resolve and a sharp wit, serving as the personal maid to the character played by Barbara Stanwyck. Ritter's Maude is the epitome of a confidante and caretaker, offering both comic relief and poignant moments that underscore the class divisions of the era. Her performance is marked by an acute awareness of her character's position within the social hierarchy, yet she imbues Maude with a dignity and spirit that transcends her station. Ritter's scenes are a testament to her talent for character acting, as she seamlessly weaves humor with pathos, particularly in her interactions with the other characters, which reveal the complexities of loyalty, friendship, and sacrifice. Her portrayal of Maude's unwavering dedication, even in the face of impending disaster, adds an layers of humanity to the film's tragic narrative, making her an unforgettable presence in this retelling of the Titanic's ill-fated journey.
Brian Aherne as Capt. Edward John Smith

Brian Aherne

Capt. Edward John Smith
Brian Aherne delivered a poised and dignified portrayal of Captain Edward John Smith in the 1953 film "Titanic." As the seasoned commander of the ill-fated luxury liner, Aherne brought a sense of gravitas to the role, embodying the character with a steadfast dedication to duty and a palpable concern for the safety and comfort of his passengers and crew. His performance was marked by a subtle blend of stoicism and humanity; he conveyed the captain's pride in his ship and his final, solemn acceptance of the tragic circumstances as the Titanic met its icy demise. Aherne's Captain Smith was a pillar of professionalism to the end, a captain who, despite the unfolding disaster, remained composed, providing a stark contrast to the chaos and panic around him. His nuanced acting offered depth to a character that could have easily slipped into a one-dimensional caricature, instead presenting a multifaceted leader whose legacy was forever tied to the Titanic's maiden voyage.

Harper Carter

Norman Sturges (uncredited)

Helen Van Tuyl

Ida Strauss

Owen McGiveney

Steward (uncredited)

Marta Mitrovich

Mrs. Jean Uzcadum (uncredited)

Rudy Germane

Seaman (uncredited)

Chalky Williams

Passenger (uncredited)

Crew of Titanic

Full backstage crew list →