The Help stars Emma Stone as Skeeter Phelan, Viola Davis as Aibileen Clark, and Octavia Spencer as Minny Jackson, chronicling their bond in 1960s Mississippi.
Main cast
- Eugenia ‘Skeeter’ PhelanEmma StoneMain
- Aibileen ClarkViola DavisMain
- Minny JacksonOctavia SpencerMain
- Hilly HolbrookBryce Dallas HowardMain
- Celia FooteJessica ChastainMain
Supporting cast
- Charlotte PhelanAllison JanneySupp
- Johnny FooteSissy SpacekSupp
- Stuart WhitworthChris LowellSupp
- Yule MayAunjanue Ellis-TaylorSupp
- Constantine JeffersonCicely TysonSupp
Guest & voice
- Mrs. WaltersSissy SpacekGuest
- PascalMary SteenburgenGuest
- WilliamBrian KerwinGuest
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About this cast
The Help is a 2011 American period drama film based on Kathryn Stockett’s novel. It focuses on the relationships between Black maids and the white families they work for in Jackson, Mississippi, during the Civil Rights Movement.
FAQs
Who plays Skeeter in The Help?
Emma Stone portrays the aspiring writer Eugenia ‘Skeeter’ Phelan.
Who plays Aibileen in The Help?
Viola Davis plays the wise and kind-hearted maid Aibileen Clark.
Is The Help based on a true story?
No, it is based on Kathryn Stockett’s 2009 novel, though it was inspired by her childhood in Mississippi and the experiences of a family maid.
Did Octavia Spencer win an Oscar for The Help?
Yes, Octavia Spencer won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Minny Jackson.
Who plays Hilly Holbrook in The Help?
Bryce Dallas Howard takes on the role of the villainous and racist socialite Hilly Holbrook.
Sources & where to watch: IMDb · Wikipedia · Where to watch (JustWatch UK) · Updated June 2026