Michelle Pfeiffer Says She’s Not Retiring, Clarifies ‘Ensemble’ Comments
Michelle Pfeiffer, a three-time Academy Award nominee, has moved to quash rumors that she is stepping away from Hollywood, telling Jimmy Fallon on “The Tonight Show” that she has no intention of retiring.
“No … I mean, it’s the most ridiculous thing,” she said when Fallon raised the topic. “They’re always saying I’m retiring. Where does it say I’m retiring?”
The clarification comes after Pfeiffer’s comments at The Hollywood Reporter’s THR x Apple TV’s Leading the Narrative: The Women of Apple TV event in August, where she reportedly said, “I never want to star in another movie, I swear to God. I only want to do ensemble pieces. It’s so much more fun, I love it so much.”
Pfeiffer told Fallon that her remarks were “taken out of context.”
“All that I said was that I really love working with an ensemble cast,” she explained.
When Fallon asked if she knew she would “get in trouble” for the earlier statement, Pfeiffer replied, “I knew the minute it came out of my mouth. Of course, I want to star in another movie.”
Pfeiffer, known for roles in films such as “Scarface,” “Batman Returns,” and “Hairspray,” also discussed her recent television work, including “Margo’s Got Money Troubles” and “The Madison.” She said she has been drawn to the depth and complexity of modern TV characters.
“I’ve just been so bowled over by the female performances on television and honestly, they’re just really owning TV,” she said.
Pfeiffer praised the opportunity to portray flawed and layered characters, adding that the themes in “Margo’s Got Money Troubles” resonated with her.
“I love how complicated and flawed all these characters are,” she said, referencing a quote often attributed to Robin Williams about showing kindness because everyone is facing unseen struggles.
“That kind of, for me, sums up the show and the message of the show, and I’m really proud to be a part of it,” Pfeiffer added.
She also said her confidence grew throughout filming as she developed trust with her director and became more willing to experiment.