'Stranger Things' star Winona Ryder makes sad confession

Winona Ryder discussed a role she took that negatively impacted her career, despite being warned by everyone.

The 53-year-old has an iconic filmography, having started work in Hollywood at the mere age of 15.

In a recent conversation with Elle UK, the star of Stranger Things revealed that her role in Heathers cost her an opportunity to work alongside Marlon Brando. She had been looking forward to that role, as Brando was considered one of the most influential actors of his time.

Ryder, who was hesitant at first but later revealed the name of the movie, The Freshman, for which the film’s team pulled her out of the cast after watching Heathers.

The Freshman's officials warned her that the movie mocked teen suicide. The actress's team cautioned her that she would “never work again” if she accepted the role of Veronica Sawyers in the 1988 cult classic.

“They were deeply offended and, yeah, they revoked the offer,” Ryder said, adding that she stood her ground and didn’t apologise.

In 2024’s interview with Harper’s Bazaar, the Golden Globe winner remembered her agent literally went down on her knees to beg her not to star in Heathers.’ She said, “She’s like, ‘Please, you’re gonna destroy any chance of a career.”

For the unversed, Heathers is a 1988 dark comedy that revolves around a high school clique who takes Veronica, the new girl, under their wing, but soon discover she’s murdering the cool kids with the help of her boyfriend.

The Beetlejuice lead mentioned that she knows the film by heart, and never turns it off if the movie is playing.

Winona Ryder is currently preparing for the release of the final season of Stranger Things, which is slated for November 26, 2025.