Kristen Wiig admitted she underestimated the impact of “Bridesmaids” back in 2011.
The 52-year-old actress shared that she had no clue about how the film would resonate with audiences in the weeks following its release.
“After we premiered, I remember thinking it was like, ‘Well, we did our best,'” Wiig recalled during a chat with Amy Poehler on a podcast. “And we were just like, ‘Sorry.'”
She emphasized, “I just thought that’s how it would be. But then more people kept watching, and I think it grew on them later.”
Wiig described the movie as a “grower.”
In “Bridesmaids,” she co-wrote the script with Annie Mumolo and starred as Annie, the maid of honor, who navigates the chaotic world of wedding planning alongside a group of bridesmaids, including Rose Byrne, Melissa McCarthy, and Maya Rudolph.
Despite her initial doubts, the film became a comedy favorite for many and marked a significant moment in cinema, showcasing women collaborating on comedy.
Last year, director Paul Feig spoke candidly about the pressure he felt making the film a success.
On Jesse Tyler Ferguson’s podcast, Feig, 63, admitted that there were high stakes riding on this project, highlighting that “another female-led film” depended on its success.
He expressed concern about the implications of a failed project like this: “It felt like they were really trying to kill the chances for women in film.”
Having grossed over $300 million globally, “Bridesmaids” received two Academy Award nominations, including one for Best Original Screenplay for Wiig and Mumolo.
In 2021, Feig shared behind-the-scenes insights, revealing that an original script included a scene with a shirtless Matt Damon, which ultimately didn’t make it to the final cut.
Looking ahead, Wiig recently opened up about a possible sequel, but noted that “the story is over” for her character.
She explained, “It wasn’t a topic of conversation. That story feels complete to me, and I love it for countless reasons. I think it’s okay if it just stands on its own.”
“Bridesmaids” remains a significant film, especially as one of the most memorable comedies led by women.
Wiig pondered why a film with a strong female cast might intimidate some, asking, “What’s the fear? Why can’t we have more stories like this?”
Interestingly, while she reflected on the film’s legacy, McCarthy expressed enthusiasm about returning to her role. “I would jump at the chance to do a sequel to ‘Bridesmaids’ at any moment,” she said in 2023, reminiscing about the incredible bond formed during filming.
Rudolph, 53, also tossed in her ideas for a sequel, humorously suggesting a new title like “Old Women” instead.
