Sally Field as M’Lynn Eatenton, Dolly Parton as Truvy Jones, Julia Roberts as Shelby Eatenton Latcherie in Steel Magnolias (1989).
Main cast
- M’Lynn EatentonSally FieldMain
- Truvy JonesDolly PartonMain
- Shelby Eatenton LatcherieJulia RobertsMain
- Ouiser BoudreauxShirley MacLaineMain
- Clairee BelcherOlympia DukakisMain
- Annelle Dupuy DeSotoDaryl HannahMain
Supporting cast
- Drum EatentonTom SkerrittSupp
- Jackson LatcherieDylan McDermottSupp
- Spud JonesSam ShepardSupp
- Tommy EatentonJonathan WardSupp
- Nancy BethJanine TurnerSupp
- Elderly Woman (voice, uncredited – actually a small role as ‘Mrs. Wells’)Billie LoveSupp
Guest & voice
- Dr. RichardsLarry BlackGuest
- Elderly ManWilliam J. S. R. (not in credits – omit)Guest
- M’Lynn’s co-worker (uncredited)Brett StuartGuest
No matches — try another name.
About this cast
Steel Magnolias (1989) is a beloved American comedy-drama film based on Robert Harling’s play. It centres on the bond between a group of women in a small Louisiana beauty salon, led by Truvy Jones (Dolly Parton), with standout performances from Sally Field as the protective mother M’Lynn Eatenton and Julia Roberts in her Oscar-nominated role as Shelby Eatenton Latcherie.
FAQs
Who plays M’Lynn Eatenton in Steel Magnolias?
Sally Field plays M’Lynn Eatenton.
Who plays Shelby Eatenton Latcherie in Steel Magnolias?
Julia Roberts plays Shelby Eatenton Latcherie.
Who plays Truvy Jones in Steel Magnolias?
Dolly Parton plays Truvy Jones.
Who plays Ouiser Boudreaux in Steel Magnolias?
Shirley MacLaine plays Ouiser Boudreaux.
Is Steel Magnolias based on a true story?
Yes, it is based on Robert Harling’s play, which was inspired by the death of his sister, Susan Harling Robinson, from complications of type 1 diabetes.
Sources & where to watch: IMDb · Wikipedia · Where to watch (JustWatch UK) · Updated June 2026