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Plastic is set to make a comeback as Mean Girls returns to the big screen, and Tina Fey, the film’s creator and Ms. Norbury actor, has been actively promoting the highly anticipated release. While Fey is keeping details like guest cameos and plot differences under wraps, she has shared personal insights in recent interviews, shedding light on her high school experiences and the crafting of the 2004 hit movie.
During a recent interview on the Today show, Fey described herself as a “theatre geek” and an “absolute dork” during high school, emphasizing her identity as a “good student.” She humorously addressed her questionable teen fashion sense when shown a prom picture and clarified that she did not actually take her brother to the dance.
When asked which Mean Girls character she most identifies with, Fey unequivocally stated that she relates to Janis. She admitted to talking “a lot of smack about people” and thought she was the victim in every situation, realizing she was a “monster.” Lizzy Caplan originally played Janis, and Auli’i Cravalho will take on the role in the 2024 movie.
The Today interview covered various topics, with Fey expressing how much fun she had with the Broadway musical and revealing that the inspiration for the 2024 movie came during the pandemic. She clarified that the new film includes musical interludes, shot in a “music video style.” Fey acknowledged elements from the original that might not hold up well in a modern context, expressing a desire to refresh the script.
To ensure a contemporary touch, Fey sought input from her teen daughter and her friends, who influenced decisions like keeping the Burn Book a physical copy. Fey teased “wonderful surprises” for fans and hinted at cameo appearances by original cast members. The interview ended with Fey dismissing rumors about replacing Lorne Michaels at SNL and expressing excitement about the return of Mean Girls.