Debra Winger has shed light on her departure from the 1992 film "A League of Their Own," revealing that Madonna's inclusion in the cast was a significant factor in her decision to step down.
The 66-year-old Oscar-nominated actress explained to The Telegraph that she believed the project was veering more towards an "Elvis film" rather than the authentic portrayal she had invested three months preparing for with the Chicago Cubs baseball club.
Winger elaborated that her concerns were taken seriously by the studio, leading to her collecting a pay-or-play clause in her contract, which ensured she received compensation despite not appearing in the film—an uncommon feat to achieve in court, she noted.
While discussing Madonna's performance in the movie, Winger indirectly criticized it, stating, "I think [her] acting career has spoken for itself." She further expressed her disappointment in the overall film, remarking that it failed to truly capture the experiences of real-life female athletes. Winger questioned the authenticity of the portrayal, suggesting that viewers might be left wondering about the accuracy of the depicted events rather than being inspired by the accomplishments of the women.
Regarding her intended role in the film, Winger acknowledged that Geena Davis, who eventually replaced her, did a satisfactory job, but she felt that most of the actors involved were not adequately prepared for their roles.
Beyond her involvement in "A League of Their Own," Debra Winger has garnered acclaim with three Academy Award nominations for her performances in films such as "An Officer and a Gentleman" (1982), "Terms of Endearment" (1983), and "Shadowlands" (1993). Presently, she can be seen alongside Joseph Gordon-Levitt in the Apple TV+ series "Mr. Corman."
Winger also reflected on her decision to step away from Hollywood in 1995, explaining that she sought new challenges as playing supportive wife and mother roles became monotonous.
Last year, Amazon Studios and Sony Pictures Television announced a television revival of "A League of Their Own." The upcoming series, starring and executive produced by Abbi Jacobson (known for "Broad City"), aims to capture the essence of Penny Marshall's beloved classic while expanding its scope to tell the stories of a whole generation of women who aspired to play professional baseball. Rosie O'Donnell, who appeared in the original film, will reprise her role in the remake. The revival, co-created by Jacobson and Will Graham, intends to explore themes of race and s- through a fresh cast of characters as they navigate their journeys in and out of the baseball league.
