The Iconic Cast Of Little Shop Of Horrors (1986) Revisited

09 Jul, 2025

Step into the vibrant, darkly comedic world of "Little Shop of Horrors," a 1986 American horror comedy musical film directed by Frank Oz, which continues to enchant audiences decades after its premiere. This cinematic gem, based on the off-Broadway musical, brought together a truly stacked cast of actors, each delivering unforgettable performances that cemented the film's cult status. More than 35 years after its debut, the magic of this movie, particularly its stellar ensemble, remains as potent as ever.

From the nerdy flower shop apprentice to the sadistic dentist and the insatiable, singing plant, the characters of "Little Shop of Horrors" are brought to life by a roster of talent that perfectly balances comedic timing with genuine pathos. This article delves deep into the incredible cast of "Little Shop of Horrors (1986)," exploring the actors and their iconic roles, their contributions to this beloved film, and where their careers took them after facing off against a mean green mother from outer space.

The Enduring Legacy of Little Shop of Horrors (1986)
Frank Oz's Vision: Directing the Darkly Humorous Musical
The Iconic Cast of Little Shop of Horrors (1986): A Deep Dive
Beyond the Main Trio: Memorable Supporting Roles
The Impact and Influence of Little Shop of Horrors (1986)
Where Are They Now? The Cast's Post-Little Shop Careers
The Enduring Appeal: Why Little Shop Still Thrives

The Enduring Legacy of Little Shop of Horrors (1986)

"Little Shop of Horrors" stands as a testament to the power of a well-crafted musical brought to the big screen. It masterfully blends elements of horror, comedy, and musical theater, creating a unique cinematic experience. The film, a cinematic adaptation of the popular 1982 off-Broadway musical by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken, itself based on Roger Corman's 1960 black comedy film, tells the darkly humorous tale of Seymour Krelborn, a nerdy orphan working at Mushnik's, a flower shop in urban Skid Row. His discovery of an exotic, carnivorous plant named Audrey II, and the gruesome measures he must take to keep it alive and make it grow, forms the core of this captivating narrative. The success of the film, and its lasting appeal, is inextricably linked to the brilliant performances delivered by its stellar cast, making the "Little Shop of Horrors 1986 cast" a subject of enduring fascination for fans and film enthusiasts alike.

Frank Oz's Vision: Directing the Darkly Humorous Musical

The man at the helm of this cult classic was Frank Oz, a director renowned for his work with The Muppets and his keen eye for comedic timing and character development. Oz, who had a long and distinguished career as a puppeteer and voice actor (including Miss Piggy and Yoda), brought a unique sensibility to "Little Shop of Horrors." His background allowed him to seamlessly integrate the complex puppetry of Audrey II with live-action performances, creating a believable and engaging interaction between the human actors and the sentient plant. Oz's direction ensured that the film maintained the dark humor and satirical edge of the stage musical while expanding its visual scope for the cinematic medium. His ability to draw out nuanced performances from his actors, even amidst the fantastical elements, is a key reason why the "Little Shop of Horrors 1986 cast" shines so brightly.

The Iconic Cast of Little Shop of Horrors (1986): A Deep Dive

The true heart of "Little Shop of Horrors" lies in its incredible ensemble. Each actor brought their unique flair to their respective roles, creating characters that are both hilariously exaggerated and surprisingly relatable. Let's explore the cast members details for "Little Shop of Horrors," getting actor roles, casting info, images, and more, as we delve into the bios and filmography of these memorable performers.

Rick Moranis as Seymour Krelborn: The Nerdy Apprentice

**Biography:** Rick Moranis, born in Toronto, Canada, on April 18, 1953, rose to prominence in the 1980s as a master of deadpan comedy and endearing nerdiness. Before "Little Shop of Horrors," he was already a familiar face from SCTV and hit films like "Ghostbusters" and "Brewster's Millions." His portrayal of Seymour Krelborn perfectly encapsulated the character's meekness, innocence, and eventual moral compromise. **Role in "Little Shop of Horrors":** Seymour Krelborn is a nerdy orphan working at Mushnik's, a flower shop in urban Skid Row. He's a timid, kind-hearted individual who accidentally discovers Audrey II during a solar eclipse. His desperate attempts to impress his crush, Audrey, and save the failing flower shop lead him down a dark path as he feeds the plant human blood. Moranis brought a vulnerability and relatable awkwardness to Seymour, making his descent into villainy both tragic and comically absurd. His vocal performance in the musical numbers was also a pleasant surprise for many. **Personal Data & Biodata:**

Full Name	Frederick Allan Moranis
Born	April 18, 1953 (age 71)
Birthplace	Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Occupation	Actor, Comedian, Musician, Screenwriter
Notable Works (Pre-1986)	SCTV, Strange Brew, Ghostbusters, Brewster's Millions

Ellen Greene as Audrey: The Heart of Skid Row

**Biography:** Ellen Greene, born in Brooklyn, New York, on February 22, 1951, is an American actress and singer known for her distinctive voice and theatrical presence. She originated the role of Audrey in the off-Broadway production of "Little Shop of Horrors" in 1982, making her reprisal in the film a highly anticipated event. Her performance is often cited as the definitive portrayal of the character. **Role in "Little Shop of Horrors":** Audrey is Seymour's sweet, insecure, and somewhat downtrodden co-worker at Mushnik's. She dreams of a better life away from her abusive boyfriend, Orin Scrivello, DDS. Greene's portrayal of Audrey is a masterclass in blending vulnerability with a surprising resilience. Her iconic vocal performance of "Somewhere That's Green" is a highlight of the film, conveying Audrey's deep longing for a simple, beautiful life. Her chemistry with Rick Moranis as Seymour is palpable, forming the emotional core of the narrative. **Personal Data & Biodata:**

Full Name	Ellen Greene
Born	February 22, 1951 (age 73)
Birthplace	Brooklyn, New York, U.S.
Occupation	Actress, Singer
Notable Works (Pre-1986)	Broadway's "Rags," original off-Broadway "Little Shop of Horrors"

Steve Martin as Orin Scrivello, DDS: The Sadistic Dentist

**Biography:** Steve Martin, born in Waco, Texas, on August 14, 1945, is a legendary comedian, actor, musician, and writer. By the time he joined the "Little Shop of Horrors 1986 cast," Martin was already a household name, known for his stand-up comedy, "Saturday Night Live" appearances, and hit films like "The Jerk" and "All of Me." His decision to take on the role of the sadistic dentist showcased his versatility and willingness to embrace darker, more outrageous characters. **Role in "Little Shop of Horrors":** Orin Scrivello, DDS, is Audrey's abusive, leather-clad, nitrous oxide-addicted boyfriend. He is a truly despicable character, yet Martin imbues him with a manic, over-the-top energy that makes him strangely captivating. His performance of "Dentist!" is a show-stopping number, demonstrating his physical comedy prowess and his ability to embody a character that is both terrifying and ridiculously funny. Martin's Orin is a memorable villain, serving as a significant obstacle in Seymour and Audrey's path to happiness. **Personal Data & Biodata:**

Full Name	Stephen Glenn Martin
Born	August 14, 1945 (age 78)
Birthplace	Waco, Texas, U.S.
Occupation	Actor, Comedian, Musician, Writer, Producer
Notable Works (Pre-1986)	The Jerk, Pennies from Heaven, All of Me, Saturday Night Live

Levi Stubbs as the Voice of Audrey II: The Mean Green Mother

**Biography:** Levi Stubbs, born in Detroit, Michigan, on June 6, 1936, was an American baritone singer, best known as the lead vocalist of the legendary Motown vocal group The Four Tops. His powerful, soulful voice was instantly recognizable and gave Audrey II its formidable and seductive presence. Though unseen, his contribution to the "Little Shop of Horrors 1986 cast" is arguably one of the most vital. **Role in "Little Shop of Horrors":** Audrey II is an exotic plant in a downtown flower shop that convinces the storekeeper's meek apprentice to resort to gruesome measures to keep it alive and make it grow. Stubbs provided the deep, menacing, yet incredibly charismatic voice for the plant. His performance gave Audrey II its distinct personality – a conniving, manipulative, and ultimately terrifying entity with a surprising amount of soul. Songs like "Feed Me (Git It)" and "Suppertime" showcase his incredible vocal range and ability to convey both hunger and menace. **Personal Data & Biodata:**

Full Name	Levi Stubbs Jr.
Born	June 6, 1936
Died	October 17, 2008 (aged 72)
Birthplace	Detroit, Michigan, U.S.
Occupation	Singer, Actor
Notable Works (Pre-1986)	Lead singer of The Four Tops ("I Can't Help Myself," "Reach Out I'll Be There")

Beyond the Main Trio: Memorable Supporting Roles

While Moranis, Greene, Martin, and Stubbs form the core of the "Little Shop of Horrors 1986 cast," the film also boasts an impressive array of cameo appearances and supporting roles that add to its rich tapestry of characters. These performances, though brief, are often scene-stealing and contribute significantly to the film's comedic and quirky tone. * **Vincent Gardenia as Mr. Mushnik:** The owner of Mushnik's Skid Row Florists, Gardenia portrays the struggling, often exasperated boss with a gruff exterior but a hint of underlying desperation. His performance grounds the film in the harsh realities of Skid Row. * **Bill Murray as Arthur Denton:** In a hilarious cameo, Murray plays a masochistic dental patient who actually enjoys Orin Scrivello's painful procedures. His deadpan delivery and unique brand of humor are perfectly suited for this brief but memorable role. * **John Candy as Wink Wilkinson:** The fast-talking, enthusiastic radio DJ who interviews Seymour. Candy's brief appearance brings his signature warmth and comedic energy to the screen. * **Christopher Guest as The First Customer:** Another quick but funny cameo, Guest plays a customer who is initially unimpressed by Mushnik's wilted flowers until he sees Audrey II. * **James Belushi as Patrick Martin:** A slick, opportunistic marketing executive who tries to exploit Audrey II's fame. Belushi's performance adds another layer of corporate greed to the film's satirical themes. The depth of talent in even the smallest roles truly highlights the quality of the "Little Shop of Horrors 1986 cast" and the draw the project had for comedic actors of the era.

The Impact and Influence of Little Shop of Horrors (1986)

"Little Shop of Horrors" has left an indelible mark on popular culture. Its blend of genres, catchy songs, and memorable characters ensured its place as a beloved cult classic. The film's critical success and enduring popularity demonstrated the viability of adapting stage musicals for the big screen, paving the way for future productions. It also cemented the careers of its lead actors in the musical comedy genre. The film's themes of greed, ambition, and the consequences of moral compromise resonate even today, making it more than just a simple horror-comedy. The iconic imagery of Audrey II, the distinctive musical numbers, and the unforgettable performances of the "Little Shop of Horrors 1986 cast" have ensured its continuous re-discovery by new generations of fans.

Where Are They Now? The Cast's Post-Little Shop Careers

After Seymour fed the mean green mother from outer space, the careers of the "Little Shop of Horrors" cast members took various paths. * **Rick Moranis:** Following "Little Shop," Moranis continued his streak of successful comedic roles in the late 1980s and early 1990s, starring in films like "Spaceballs" (1987), "Honey, I Shrunk the Kids" (1989) and its sequels, and "Parenthood" (1989). However, after the tragic death of his wife in 1991, Moranis gradually stepped back from acting in the mid-1990s to focus on raising his children. He has largely remained out of the public eye, only occasionally lending his voice to animated projects or making brief appearances. His decision to prioritize family over career is widely respected by his fans. In recent years, there have been talks of a potential return to acting, including a rumored sequel to "Honey, I Shrunk the Kids." * **Ellen Greene:** Greene continued to have a successful career primarily in theater, reprising her role as Audrey in various stage productions of "Little Shop of Horrors" over the years, proving her enduring connection to the character. She also appeared in films and television series, including "Pump Up the Volume" (1990), "Léon: The Professional" (1994), and recurring roles in TV shows like "Heroes" and "Pushing Daisies," where her distinctive voice and theatricality continued to charm audiences. * **Steve Martin:** Martin's career post-"Little Shop" continued to flourish. He starred in numerous acclaimed films such as "Planes, Trains & Automobiles" (1987), "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels" (1988), "Father of the Bride" (1991) and its sequel, and "Bowfinger" (1999). Beyond acting, he has enjoyed immense success as a bluegrass musician, playwright, and author. In recent years, he has found renewed popularity with the Hulu comedy series "Only Murders in the Building," alongside Martin Short and Selena Gomez, showcasing his enduring comedic genius. * **Levi Stubbs:** Stubbs continued his illustrious career with The Four Tops, touring and performing for decades. While his acting roles were limited, his iconic voice for Audrey II remains one of his most memorable contributions outside of music. He passed away in 2008, leaving behind a legacy as one of Motown's most distinctive voices. * **Other notable cast members** like Bill Murray and John Candy also continued their highly successful careers, with Murray becoming an acclaimed dramatic and comedic actor, and Candy remaining a beloved comedic figure until his untimely passing in 1994. The "Little Shop of Horrors 1986 cast" truly created a timeless piece of cinema, and their subsequent careers only underscore the immense talent brought to the project.

The Enduring Appeal: Why Little Shop Still Thrives

The longevity of "Little Shop of Horrors" speaks volumes about its quality. Its unique blend of dark humor, catchy musical numbers, and a surprisingly poignant love story continues to captivate viewers. The film's practical effects for Audrey II, especially for its time, were groundbreaking and still hold up remarkably well, adding to its charm. Moreover, the film's exploration of themes like ambition, moral decay, and the allure of quick success remains relevant. The memorable performances by the "Little Shop of Horrors 1986 cast" are undoubtedly a cornerstone of its enduring appeal. They brought a human touch to a fantastical story, making audiences root for Seymour and Audrey even as the plant's demands grew more gruesome. It's a film that manages to be both hilariously funny and genuinely unsettling, a rare feat that ensures its place in cinematic history.

In conclusion, the 1986 film "Little Shop of Horrors" is a cinematic treasure, largely thanks to its phenomenal cast. From Rick Moranis's endearing Seymour to Ellen Greene's heartbreaking Audrey, Steve Martin's maniacal Orin, and Levi Stubbs's soulful yet sinister Audrey II, every performance contributed to the film's unique charm and lasting legacy. Now, more than 35 years after the film premiered, the "Little Shop of Horrors 1986 cast" continues to be celebrated for their iconic roles, their talent echoing through the decades. Their collective efforts created a film that transcends genres, offering laughter, thrills, and a surprisingly touching narrative about love and the perils of temptation.

What are your favorite moments or performances from the "Little Shop of Horrors 1986 cast"? Share your thoughts in the comments below! If you enjoyed this deep dive, be sure to explore our other articles on classic film casts and their lasting impact on cinema.

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