The Cast of Thanksgiving played a key role in making Eli Roth’s “Thanksgiving” 2023’s unexpected box office hit. Inspired by a fake trailer in “Grindhouse,” this slasher film impressed audiences with its dark humor and genuine scares.
At the heart of this holiday horror hit lies a talented ensemble cast that brought depth and nuance to what could have been stock characters. Let’s dive into the performers who made “Thanksgiving” a feast for horror fans.
Key Stats:
| Metric | Value |
| Box Office | $30.7 million (domestic) |
| Rotten Tomatoes Score | 83% |
| Release Date | November 17, 2023 |
| Director | Eli Roth |
| Runtime | 107 minutes |
| Budget | $15 million |
| Opening Weekend | $10.2 million |
I. The Unexpected Slasher Success
“Thanksgiving” took the horror genre by storm, transforming a tongue-in-cheek concept into 2023’s most talked-about fright fest. The film’s premise – a killer stalking a small town after a Black Friday riot goes wrong – struck a chord with viewers, blending social commentary with genuine scares.
What set Cast of Thanksgiving apart was its stellar cast. From established stars to fresh faces, each actor brought depth to their character, elevating the film beyond typical slasher fare. Eli Roth’s direction allowed for improvisation and character development, resulting in a horror film that felt both fresh and familiar.
The success of “Thanksgiving” also highlighted a trend in horror cinema: the resurrection of the slasher subgenre. With its mix of nostalgia and modern sensibilities, the film tapped into audiences’ desire for both comfort and innovation in their scares.
Notable Slasher Revivals:
- “Scream” (2022)
- “Halloween” (2018)
- “Candyman” (2021)
- “Thanksgiving” (2023)
II. Nell Verlaque: Bringing Jessica Wright to Life
At the heart Cast of Thanksgiving is Nell Verlaque as Jessica Wright, our determined protagonist. Verlaque, known for her role in “Big Shot,” tackled her first major film lead with gusto, delivering a performance that anchored the entire narrative.
Jessica Wright’s character arc takes her from a typical teenager to a resilient survivor. Verlaque prepared for the role by:
- Studying classic final girls in horror cinema
- Undergoing physical training for intense chase scenes
- Working with a dialect coach to perfect the local accent
- Researching the psychological effects of trauma on young adults
Critics praised Verlaque’s performance, with The Hollywood Reporter calling it “a star-making turn that balances vulnerability and strength.” Her portrayal of Jessica resonated with audiences, providing a relatable anchor amidst the chaos of the film’s events.
Verlaque’s background in sports (she was a competitive gymnast) proved invaluable for the film’s more physical scenes. She performed many of her own stunts, adding an extra layer of authenticity to Jessica’s fight for survival.
In interviews, Verlaque spoke about the challenges of her role:
“Playing Jessica was emotionally taxing but incredibly rewarding. I wanted to show her growth from a carefree teen to someone who’s been through hell but comes out stronger.”
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III. Patrick Dempsey: From McDreamy to Menacing Sheriff
Patrick Dempsey shocked fans with his turn as Sheriff Eric Newlan. Known for his charming roles, particularly as Derek “McDreamy” Shepherd in “Grey’s Anatomy,” Dempsey’s portrayal of the morally ambiguous lawman showcased his range as an actor.
Dempsey on playing Sheriff Newlan:
“It was refreshing to explore a character with so many layers. Eric isn’t your typical good guy or bad guy – he exists in that gray area that makes for compelling storytelling.”
The actor’s familiar face added an extra layer of unease to the film, keeping viewers guessing about his true motives until the bloody end. Dempsey’s performance was praised for its subtlety, with critics noting how he used his charm to mask the character’s darker side.
Dempsey’s preparation for the role included:
- Ride-alongs with local law enforcement
- Studying the history of corruption in small-town police forces
- Working with a movement coach to develop a more authoritative physicality
His portrayal of Sheriff Newlan became one of the film’s most talked-about elements, sparking discussions about the nature of authority and trust in horror narratives.
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IV. Addison Rae: TikTok Star Turns Scream Queen
Addison Rae’s leap from TikTok sensation to horror film actress raised eyebrows, but her performance as Gabby silenced critics. Rae brought a modern edge to the classic “popular girl” trope, infusing Gabby with both sass and surprising depth.
Rae’s Horror Film Prep:
- Marathoned classic slasher films
- Took acting classes focused on emoting fear
- Worked with a stunt coordinator for action scenes
- Studied the performances of iconic scream queens like Jamie Lee Curtis and Neve Campbell
Director Eli Roth praised Rae’s dedication, stating, “Addison threw herself into the role. She understood the balance of humor and horror we were going for.”
Rae’s massive social media following (88 million on TikTok as of 2023) helped generate buzz for the film, particularly among younger audiences. Her performance in “Thanksgiving” marked a significant step in her transition from social media star to serious actress.
In the film, Gabby’s character subverts expectations, evolving from a seemingly shallow popular girl to a crucial ally in the fight against the killer. Rae’s nuanced performance captured this evolution, earning praise from both critics and horror fans.
Addison Rae on her “Thanksgiving” experience:
“I knew people would be skeptical of me in a horror film, but that just made me work harder. I wanted to prove that I could hold my own alongside veteran actors.”
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V. Milo Manheim: The Multifaceted Ryan
Rising star Milo Manheim tackled the complex role of Ryan, a character who keeps the audience guessing. Known for Disney’s “Zombies” franchise, Manheim showcased his versatility in “Thanksgiving,” delivering a performance that blended charm and menace.
Ryan’s Character Traits:
- Charming yet mysterious
- Potential love interest for Jessica
- Harbors dark secrets
- Struggles with loyalty to family versus doing what’s right
Manheim’s performance was a highlight, with Variety noting his “ability to switch from affable to menacing in the blink of an eye.” His chemistry with Nell Verlaque added a layer of teen romance to the film, providing moments of respite from the horror.
To prepare for the role, Manheim:
- Studied the performances of actors in classic teen horror films
- Worked with a psychologist to understand the mindset of someone hiding dark secrets
- Engaged in extensive character backstory development with Eli Roth
Manheim’s portrayal of Ryan became a focal point for fan theories, with viewers debating his true nature and motivations throughout the film’s runtime.
VI. Gina Gershon: Veteran Actress Adds Gravitas
Gina Gershon’s presence in “Thanksgiving” lent the film an air of gravitas. With a career spanning decades, Gershon brought depth to her role as a town elder hiding dark secrets.
Gershon’s Notable Horror Credits:
- “Bound” (1996)
- “Killer Joe” (2011)
- “House of Versace” (2013)
- “Riverdale” (TV series, 2019-2021)
Her character’s pivotal role in the town’s tragic history added layers to the narrative, elevating “Thanksgiving” beyond simple slasher fare. Gershon’s performance anchored the film’s exploration of generational guilt and the price of keeping secrets.
In interviews, Gershon spoke about the appeal of horror:
“Horror allows us to explore our darkest fears in a controlled environment. It’s cathartic. And as an actor, it’s a chance to really push your emotional limits.”
Her scenes with younger cast members, particularly Nell Verlaque, provided some of the film’s most intense moments, showcasing the generational conflict at the heart of the story.
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VII. Rick Hoffman: From “Suits” to Slasher
Rick Hoffman, best known as Louis Litt from “Suits,” surprised audiences with his turn in “Thanksgiving.” Hoffman’s character, a local business owner, becomes entangled in the town’s dark past and present horrors.
Hoffman approached horror differently than drama, explaining:
“In ‘Suits,’ tension built slowly. Here, it’s about maintaining a constant state of dread. It’s exhausting but exhilarating.”
Fans of Hoffman’s work were thrilled to see him in such a different role, praising his ability to be both sympathetic and suspicious. His character’s arc provided some of the film’s most shocking twists, keeping viewers on edge until the final act.
Hoffman’s preparation for the role included:
- Studying the economic impact of Black Friday on small businesses
- Exploring the psychology of guilt and complicity
- Working with Eli Roth to develop his character’s backstory
His performance added a layer of complexity to the film’s exploration of small-town dynamics and the lengths people will go to protect their interests.
VIII. Tomaso Sanelli: Evan’s Journey
Tomaso Sanelli’s portrayal of Evan added a youthful energy to the ensemble cast. Sanelli, known for roles in “Titans” and “Backstage,” brought depth to what could have been a stock teenager character.
Evan’s Arc in “Thanksgiving”:
- Starts as a typical high school student
- Becomes embroiled in the town’s dark secrets
- Faces moral dilemmas as the body count rises
- Emerges as an unexpected hero in the third act
Sanelli’s chemistry with Nell Verlaque was particularly praised, with their scenes together providing moments of levity amidst the horror. His portrayal of Evan’s evolution from carefree teen to battle-hardened survivor was a standout element of the film.
In preparing for the role, Sanelli:
- Attended high school classes to observe modern teen behavior
- Worked with a trauma counselor to understand the psychological impact of extreme events on young people
- Engaged in extensive improvisation sessions with his castmates to develop natural chemistry
Sanelli’s performance highlighted the film’s exploration of how tragedy can force young people to grow up quickly, adding emotional depth to the horror narrative.
IX. The Supporting Cast of thanksgiving: Unsung Heroes
While the leads grabbed headlines, “Thanksgiving” supporting cast proved crucial to its success. Gabriel Davenport as Scuba and Jenna Warren as Yulia rounded out the core group of teens, each bringing unique energy to their roles.
Standout Supporting Performances:
- Gabriel Davenport (Scuba): Comic relief with hidden depths
- Jenna Warren (Yulia): The skeptic who uncovers key clues
- Karen Cliche (Kathleen Wright): Jessica’s mother, hiding her own secrets
- Joe Dressner (Mayor Thomas Wright): The town leader with a dark past
These performers created a believable small-town atmosphere, crucial for the film’s tension. Their interactions formed the backdrop against which the horror unfolded, grounding the supernatural elements in a relatable reality.
Eli Roth spoke highly of the supporting cast:
“Every actor, no matter how small the role, brought their A-game. They understood that in horror, every character matters. Their commitment made the town of Plymouth feel real, which is essential for the scares to land.”
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X. Behind the Scenes: Cast of Thanksgiving Dynamics
The chemistry of the “Thanksgiving” cast wasn’t just on-screen magic. Behind the scenes, the ensemble bonded over late-night shoots and the challenges of horror filmmaking.
Cast Bonding Activities:
- Weekly game nights between shoots
- Group viewings of classic slasher films
- Improvisation sessions to build character relationships
- Volunteer work in the local community where filming took place
Eli Roth’s directing style encouraged this camaraderie. He allowed for improvisation within scenes, believing that genuine reactions would heighten the scares.
The cast also faced unique challenges during filming:
- Night shoots in cold New England weather
- Intense emotional scenes requiring multiple takes
- Complex practical effects and stunt work
These shared experiences forged a tight-knit group, with many cast members describing the shoot as one of the most memorable of their careers.
XI. The Impact of “Thanksgiving” on Cast Careers
“Thanksgiving” has proven to be a launchpad for its cast. Nell Verlaque and Addison Rae, in particular, have seen a surge in offers following the film’s success.
Post-“Thanksgiving” Projects:
| Actor | Upcoming Project | Genre |
| Nell Verlaque | “The Freshman” | Thriller |
| Addison Rae | “Crypto Queen” | Drama |
| Milo Manheim | “Zombies 4” | Musical Comedy |
| Patrick Dempsey | “Ferrari” | Biographical Drama |
| Gina Gershon | “Borderlands” | Sci-Fi Action |
The film’s success has also sparked interest in holiday-themed horror, potentially creating more opportunities for the cast in similar projects. Industry insiders have noted a trend towards casting young social media stars alongside established actors in genre films, a strategy “Thanksgiving” employed to great effect.
For the younger cast members, “Thanksgiving” represented a significant step in their careers. Nell Verlaque, in particular, has been singled out as a potential new scream queen, with horror directors clamoring to work with her.
XII. A Recipe for Horror Success
What made “Thanksgiving” work so well? It was a perfect blend of:
- A talented, diverse cast
- Eli Roth’s experienced direction
- A script that balanced humor and horror
- Practical effects that grounded the gore
- Timely themes of consumerism and small-town secrets
The film’s legacy in the slasher genre is already being felt, with studios greenlighting more holiday-themed horror projects. “Thanksgiving” proved that with the right ingredients, even the most outlandish concept can become a critically and commercially successful horror film.
Potential “Thanksgiving” Spinoffs:
- A prequel exploring the town’s dark history
- A sequel following surviving characters
- An anthology series set in the same universe
- A Black Friday-themed follow-up
Eli Roth has hinted at plans to expand the “Thanksgiving” universe, suggesting that we may see more from these characters in the future.
XIII. FAQs
Q: Will there be a “Thanksgiving” sequel? A: While not officially announced, Eli Roth has expressed interest in expanding the “Thanksgiving” universe. Given the film’s success, a sequel seems likely.
Q: How were the main cast members selected? A: Eli Roth conducted extensive auditions, looking for actors who could balance horror and humor. For key roles like Patrick Dempsey’s, Roth reached out personally. Addison Rae’s casting was part of a strategy to appeal to younger audiences.
Q: What was the most challenging scene for the actors? A: Many cast members cited the climactic dinner scene as particularly demanding, requiring long hours and intense emotional performances. The Black Friday riot scene was also noted as physically challenging.
Q: Are any cast members returning to horror after this experience? A: Nell Verlaque has signed on for another horror project, while Addison Rae has expressed interest in exploring more genre roles. Patrick Dempsey has hinted at being open to more darker roles following his experience on “Thanksgiving.”
Q: How did the cast prepare for their roles in a holiday-themed slasher? A: The cast engaged in both physical training for stunts and emotional preparation, including studying real-life accounts of trauma survivors. They also researched the history of Thanksgiving and its modern commercialization to inform their performances.
Q: What set “Thanksgiving” apart from other recent horror films? A: “Thanksgiving” stood out for its blend of social commentary, dark humor, and genuine scares. The film’s exploration of Black Friday consumerism added a unique angle to the slasher formula.
Q: How did the casting of Addison Rae impact the film’s reception? A: While initially met with skepticism, Rae’s performance was generally well-received by critics and audiences. Her involvement helped attract a younger demographic to the film, contributing to its box office success.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Thanksgiving” proved that with the right blend of talent, vision, and timing, even the most unlikely concepts can become horror sensations. As we look forward to potential sequels and the cast’s future projects, one thing’s certain: Cast of Thanksgiving has given horror fans plenty to be grateful for, and its impact on the genre will be felt for years to come.
James Anderson is an experienced blogger and seasoned writer at Glimps Eden. With a passion for storytelling and deep insights into diverse topics, James brings a wealth of knowledge and engaging content to readers. His expertise spans across various subjects, making his articles both informative and captivating. When not blogging, James enjoys exploring new trends and sharing his experiences with his audience.
