Carrie cast and character guide: Who plays whom in the 1952 American drama film?

Whenever someone mentions Carrie, people usually assume that they're talking about Brian De Palma's 1976 horror adaptation of Stephen King's novel. Yet, before that, there was another project by the same name. William Wyler's 1952 drama film, Carrie, was based on Theodore Dreiser's 1900 novel, Sister Carrie.

Dreiser's work might have been considered controversial upon its release in the early 20th century. However, it eventually received a reputation as one of the greatest American urban novels for its portrayal of the long-revered American Dream. His story centred around a young woman who moves to a big city with big dreams.

The screenplay, written by Ruth and Augustus Goetz, captured the complexities of Dreiser's work by following the dewy-eyed protagonist as she wakes up to the truth about her dreams. It's a classic narrative in American cinema that captures how the truth is often farther from the imagined reality. However, instead of blaming her for her naivety, the film uses her character to hold a mirror to the corrupt reality.

The film's cast includes Jennifer Jones as Carrie Meeber and Laurence Olivier as George Hurstwood in central roles. Miriam Hopkins and Eddie Albert also star in the film.

Carrie (1952): Cast and character guide

Jennifer Jones as Carrie Meeber

Jennifer Jones plays Carrie, a wide-eyed woman from a rural town who moves to Chicago with the hopes of finding a new, better life. However, her dream slowly unravels as she meets men who often use her innocence for their benefit. Yet, underneath all its scathing critique lies a compelling, tragic romance between her and George Hurstwood.

Apart from this drama film, Jennifer Jones is widely known for her work in feature-length projects such as Duel in the Sun (1946), The Song of Bernadette (1943), and Portrait of Jennie (1948).

Laurence Olivier as George Hurstwood

Laurence Olivier stars as George Hurstwood, a married man who meets Carrie during her stay in Chicago and gets into a relationship with her. It affects his marital life, as well as her personal life. Yet, he leaves such a strong impression on her that she feels indebted to him even after she finds fame or fortune.

One of the definitive English actors and directors, Laurence Olivier is often recognized for his roles in Hamlet (1948), Rebecca (1940), and Richard III (1955).

Eddie Albert as Charles Drouet

Eddie Albert plays Charles Drouet, a man whom Carrie meets on her way to Chicago. She seeks his support to find a way out of her dreadful present-day life. It's through him that she meets Mr. Hurstwood and gets smitten by his presence. However, Charles's presence in her life seems to do more harm than good.

Eddie Albert's most popular work might be his role as Oliver Wendell Douglas in the sitcom Green Acres, apart from his striking performance in the 1953 rom-com Roman Holiday.

The supporting cast and characters of Carrie