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It’s hard to believe that 30 years ago on July 1, a movie hit theaters that was a total home run for our hearts. We’re talking about the classic baseball film A League Of Their Own. Directed by Penny Marshall, the 1992 film followed a fictionalized story of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, which was developed during World War II. The very real circumstances of a group of women in America made for one of the most beloved films to date — so much so, that we’re commemorating the landmark 30th anniversary (and the impending TV series adaptation) with a look back at the main cast.
It’s not hard to forget one of the biggest rules in the sport, thanks to this film. “There’s no crying in baseball!” Tom Hanks’ Jimmy Dugan yells at one of the Rockford Peaches. The line, and Hanks’ hilarious performance, live on three decades later.
But Hanks isn’t the only heavy hitter in this film. Naturally, it’s the ladies who lead the way. Geena Davis, Madonna, Lori Petty, and Rosie O’Donnell (to name a few) steal bases and hearts in this movie. And the history behind it truly sets the scene for a rousing crowd-pleaser.
The AAGPBL was founded in 1943 at the height of WWII. The Rockford Peaches aren’t just the team depicted in the movie — they were one of the best-known teams in the 15-team league until it ceased in 1954. A League Of Their Own not only commemorates what these women did at one of our most pivotal points in history, it celebrates a lasting legacy and important story in women’s sports. For the movie’s 30th anniversary, check out photos of the cast then and now.
Tom Hanks
Tom Hanks’ career in the ’90s is practically unmatched. Just a few years before the actor won back-to-back Oscars for Philadelphia and Forrest Gump, Hanks starred alongside the ensemble of women in A League Of Their Own as Jimmy Dugan. The character wasn’t exactly what we’re used to seeing Hanks play; he’s loud-mouthed, intoxicated, and not particularly reassuring. (Remember, he’s the one who yelled “There’s no crying in baseball!”) Still, this is definitely a highlight from Hanks’ esteemed filmography. He now stars opposite Austin Butler in Elvis.
Geena Davis
Geena Davis was just a few years removed from her Oscar win for The Accidental Tourist when she starred as Dottie Hinson in A League Of Their Own. Dottie is arguably the heart of the film. Firm and loving, she leads the women through each game with quiet confidence and an abundance of skill and determination. Those same qualities have come in handy for Davis, who has since dedicated much of her work behind the scenes, supporting women and girls in media and sports.
Madonna
A League Of Their Own was definitely a big moment in Madonna’s career. The pop culture icon plays Mae Mordabito in the film, and brought her own brand of moxie and spunk to the part. Since then, and by no surprise, Madonna’s kept busy, making more music, performing on stage, and even giving directing a try.
Rosie O’Donnell
Rosie O’Donnell was well known for her performances on the small screen before she took on the role of Doris Murphy in A League Of Their Own. Her quick wit and comedic timing came in handy for the film, and she went on to star in even more comedies like Sleepless in Seattle. She also had a talk show from 1996-2002. O’Donnell is set to appear in the TV series adaptation of A League Of Their Own this coming August.
Lori Petty
Lori Petty had mostly worked in TV before the early ’90s. She plays Kit Keller in A League Of Their Own. As Dottie’s younger sister, Kit convinces her to take a chance and head out on the road with the baseball team. Kit and Dottie’s bond is arguably one of the biggest highlights of the movie — showcasing the complicated relationship between sisters. Petty’s continued to make apperances in a slew of movies and TV, including most recently Station Eleven on HBO Max.
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