The Cast of Mean Girls (2024): A New Generation Takes the Stage
its sharp wit, clever dialogue, and memorable performances from an ensemble cast that included Lindsay Lohan, Rachel McAdams, Amanda Seyfried, and Lacey Chabert. Now, as 2024 approaches, the story of high school cliques, popularity contests, and friendship is being reimagined for a new generation.
This upcoming adaptation, titled Mean Girls (2024), isn’t just a straight remake of the original movie; it’s a musical adaptation based on the hit Broadway show that Fey also penned, following the tremendous success of the stage production. Fans of the Mean Girls universe are eagerly awaiting to see how this new take will breathe fresh life into the characters we’ve come to love (and love to hate). The big question on everyone’s mind, of course, is: who will be playing the iconic roles this time around?
In this article, we’ll dive into the 2024 cast of Mean Girls, exploring their backgrounds, their previous works, and why they’re poised to bring something exciting to these legendary roles.
1. Angourie Rice as Cady Heron
At the center of Mean Girls is Cady Heron, a once-homeschooled teenager from Africa who enters the dizzying world of North Shore High and finds herself caught between two very different groups: the outcasts and the Plastics. Lindsay Lohan originally portrayed Cady, bringing a wide-eyed innocence mixed with a hint of mischief that helped define the film.
In the 2024 version, Australian actress Angourie Rice steps into Cady’s shoes. Rice has been steadily making a name for herself in Hollywood with roles in films such as The Nice Guys (2016), Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017), and Mare of Easttown (2021). Known for her versatility and emotional depth, Rice has proven she can balance drama and humor—essential qualities for Cady Heron. Fans of the original film will be excited to see what Rice brings to this beloved character, as she navigates Cady’s transformation from a naïve newcomer to a calculating member of the Plastics.
2. Reneé Rapp as Regina George
Arguably the most iconic character in Mean Girls is Regina George, the queen bee of the Plastics. In the original film, Rachel McAdams delivered a pitch-perfect performance as the icy, manipulative, and flawlessly fashionable Regina. Her portrayal has been etched into pop culture history, making the role a daunting one to take on.
In the 2024 adaptation, Reneé Rapp is up for the challenge. Rapp, who originated the role of Regina George in the Broadway adaptation of Mean Girls, brings not only her acting chops but also her powerful vocals to the role. Having already won a Jimmy Award (The National High School Musical Theatre Award) and earning rave reviews for her performance on Broadway, Rapp is no stranger to embodying Regina’s commanding presence. With her experience and her deep understanding of the character, Rapp is set to bring a new dimension to Regina George that fans of the musical have already come to love.
3. Auli’i Cravalho as Janis Ian
Janis Ian, the edgy, alternative girl who teams up with Cady to take down Regina George, was played by Lizzy Caplan in the 2004 movie. Caplan’s portrayal of Janis became a fan favorite, with her sarcastic wit and biting commentary on high school social hierarchies.
In 2024, Auli’i Cravalho, best known as the voice of Disney’s Moana, will take on the role of Janis. Cravalho has shown her range not only as a singer but also as an actress in projects like The Power (2023) and Rise (2018). While Janis is a far cry from the optimistic island princess she voiced in Moana, Cravalho’s charisma and talent for blending humor with heart make her an exciting choice for the role. Fans can expect Cravalho to bring a fresh, nuanced take to Janis, offering a balance of rebellion and vulnerability.
4. Jaquel Spivey as Damian Leigh
Damian Leigh, Janis’ best friend and one of the most memorable characters in Mean Girls, was originally played by Daniel Franzese. With his big personality and iconic one-liners like “You go, Glen Coco!”, Damian quickly became a fan-favorite character.
In the 2024 film, Jaquel Spivey will take on the role of Damian. Spivey is best known for his Tony-nominated performance in the musical A Strange Loop, where his comedic timing and emotional depth were on full display. Spivey’s ability to play both humor and heart will be essential for portraying Damian, who is both the comic relief and a central figure in helping Cady navigate the complexities of high school life. Spivey’s stage background also makes him well-suited for this musical adaptation, as he’ll bring his vocal prowess and larger-than-life energy to Damian’s unforgettable moments.
5. Avantika Vandanapu as Karen Smith
Karen Smith, one of the Plastics, is known for her endearing yet clueless nature. Originally played by Amanda Seyfried, Karen’s character provided much of the comic relief in Mean Girls with her hilariously dim-witted comments (like her belief that she could predict the weather using her chest).
In 2024, Avantika Vandanapu, an up-and-coming actress and dancer, will portray Karen Smith. Vandanapu has starred in Disney Channel’s Spin (2021) and Netflix’s Senior Year (2022), showcasing her comedic timing and vibrant energy. Taking on the role of Karen will allow Vandanapu to further explore her comedic range while delivering the character’s innocent charm. Fans can look forward to seeing how she makes Karen’s lovable quirks her own, bringing a new flavor to the character’s iconic moments.
6. Bebe Wood as Gretchen Wieners
Gretchen Wieners, Regina George’s loyal but insecure second-in-command, was played by Lacey Chabert in the original film. As the heiress to the “Toaster Strudel” fortune, Gretchen is desperate for Regina’s approval, constantly on edge and neurotically trying to fit in. Chabert’s performance perfectly captured Gretchen’s anxious energy, making her a standout character in the ensemble.
For the 2024 adaptation, Bebe Wood, best known for her roles in The Real O’Neals and Love, Victor, will take on the role of Gretchen Wieners. Wood’s comedic background and experience in playing characters with a blend of awkwardness and heart make her a great fit for Gretchen. Her ability to portray vulnerability while delivering sharp comedic lines will bring a fresh perspective to the character, perhaps even expanding on Gretchen’s emotional depth in ways that resonate with today’s audiences.
7. Jenna Fischer as Ms. Norbury
Ms. Norbury, the math teacher who serves as a mentor to Cady, was originally played by Mean Girls writer Tina Fey. The role of Ms. Norbury is key to the film, as she helps Cady realize the consequences of her actions and the importance of staying true to herself.
In the 2024 version, Jenna Fischer, best known for her role as Pam Beesly on The Office, will be stepping into the role of Ms. Norbury. Fischer’s warm, approachable demeanor and strong comedic background make her an ideal choice to play the well-meaning but slightly frazzled teacher. Fans of The Office will undoubtedly be excited to see Fischer return to the screen in a role that requires both humor and heart.
8. Tina Fey and Tim Meadows: Cameos
While the 2024 Mean Girls musical film boasts a fresh young cast, it wouldn’t be complete without a nod to the original film’s roots. Tina Fey and Tim Meadows, who played Principal Duvall in the 2004 film, are both set to appear in cameo roles. Fey’s involvement in the project as both a writer and producer ensures that the spirit of the original film will carry through this new adaptation, even as it evolves for a contemporary audience.
Why This Cast Matters
The cast of Mean Girls (2024) represents a fascinating mix of Broadway talent, rising stars, and established actors, all of whom bring their unique skills to the table. This diverse group of performers is set to reinvigorate the beloved characters, infusing them with new life while maintaining the essence that made Mean Girls such an enduring hit.
What makes this cast particularly exciting is their range of experience across both film and theater. With several members coming from the Broadway production of Mean Girls, there is a deep understanding of the material and the musical format. This is crucial for a movie musical, where the transition from spoken word to song must feel seamless, and the performances need to be both larger-than-life and emotionally grounded.
Moreover, the casting choices reflect a broader trend in Hollywood toward greater inclusivity and diversity. By casting actors like Auli’i Cravalho and Avantika Vandanapu, the film is poised to resonate with a wider, more diverse audience, making the story of Mean Girls feel even more relevant in 2024 than it did in 2004.
Conclusion: The Anticipation Builds
As the 2024 release of Mean Girls draws closer, anticipation continues to
