Christina Applegate and Jamie-Lynn Sigler recently dived into listener emails on their podcast, MeSsy. One email stood out, asking Christina about her role in the film Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead. It’s a movie that has gained a cult following since its release in 1991, even though it flopped at the box office.
Applegate expressed her pride in the film now, recalling how she was dismissive of it when it first came out. She had been focused on independent films and viewed the project as too commercial.
"I was an absolute jerk about it," she admitted, reflecting on her past attitudes. She acknowledged needing a job at the time but felt like she was "selling out" by taking the role.
When her co-host Sigler, who enjoys the movie, asked if she had fun while filming, Applegate shared mixed feelings, mentioning personal struggles during production. Yet, she clearly cherishes the memories, noting how her daughter loves the film and even quotes lines from it.
“It’s funny to see how things have changed,” Applegate said, recognizing that at 53, she still enjoys watching the movie with her daughter. She fondly recalled her character’s style, including the "rad" rings she wore.
Applegate was also candid about the fashion choices from the movie, like the shoulder pads she found embarrassing. "Couldn’t we have had cooler outfits?" she chuckled. Yet she also highlighted the film’s unforgettable moments, like scenes with drag queens, making it clear how much she’s grown to appreciate it.
Experts point out that nostalgia plays a big role in how we view older films. Many people now find joy in the quirks of movies from their childhood, even if they weren’t appreciated at the time. This reflects a broader trend where past films often resonate more as time goes on.
Interestingly, the film has been remade recently as a BET+ Original Film, which shows its lasting impact on pop culture. The discussion of Don’t Tell Mom on the podcast not only illustrates Applegate’s journey but also shows how we can change our perceptions over time.
If you’re interested in hearing more about Applegate’s insights, you can check out the podcast episode for all the details.