The upcoming TV adaptation of Stephen King’s 1974 debut novel Carrie wrapped production recently, and now enters post-production, led by showrunner and director Mike Flanagan. Aside from the star-studded cast, most details of the new take remain under wraps, although it’s been revealed that the show will be based on “an idea based around what we’re experiencing right now in the world.” While we wait for more details about the new Carrie to drop, one of the stars of the classic 1976 film adaptation has shared whether she plans to watch it when it streams on Prime Video. Sissy Spacek was the first actor to play the teenager with telekinetic powers, and she will be, like numerous King fans, eager catch the premiere.
Spacek appeared on the red carpet for the premiere of her latest film, Die My Love, and spoke to Entertainment Tonight about the upcoming Carrie adaptation. When asked about the possibility of a cameo, Spacek said she isn’t appearing in the series, but she’s as excited as anyone for another rendition of King’s classic:
“Making a cameo? No, but I’m going to be the first to turn on my TV set to see it, I’ll be first in line to see that. That’s such a beautiful homage, I know Stephen King feels that way, I feel that way, all the original cast feels that way. That Carrie has found its audience with teenagers.”
1976’s ‘Carrie’ Will Turn 50 Next Year: Does It Hold Up?
The first Carrie arrived in theaters in 1976. Directed by Brian De Palma and written by Lawrence D. Cohen, Carrie stars Spacek alongside Piper Laurie, Nancy Allen, Amy Irving, and John Travolta. While it received a limited theatrical release, the reactions were very positive, and it quickly became one of the most discussed horror films of the 1970s.
Spacek and Laurie’s performances were impressive, and earned nominations at the Academy Awards in the Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress categories, respectively. Critically acclaimed (94% on Rotten Tomatoes), Carrie has long been regarded as one of the best horror films ever made — an unforgiving and violent look at teenage angst and fundamentalist religious views.
Spacek reflected on the film for its 50th anniversary, praising those who worked with her and saying, “It’s so wonderful to get to work with people who are really into what they are doing.” The actor also commented on the film’s lasting impact, and how it still resonates with young audiences by addressing something real:
“That time, middle school to high school, you’re going through so many changes, and we all have, no matter what, we’ve got Carrie inside of us. We’ve got a wounded teenager. It’s a hard, hard time.
“Growing up is hard. And it’s kind of heartbreaking. It really hit a nerve, that film. God bless all you teenagers out there. It’s not easy, and it hasn’t changed in all this time. If you’re a bully, we’re going to get you.”