A Classic That No One Expected to Become a Global Phenomenon

More than four decades after the release of E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, actress Dee Wallace is looking back on the film’s incredible success. While the cast knew they were working on something meaningful, she says no one expected it to become one of the most beloved movies in cinema history.

Filming Felt Like Any Other Movie

Wallace, who played Mary Taylor, the mother of the family at the heart of the story, recalled that life on set was surprisingly ordinary. She explained that filming followed a typical schedule, with long hours of waiting between scenes, making it feel much like any other production.

A Surprise Box Office Sensation

When E.T. premiered in 1982, audiences embraced the heartfelt story in overwhelming numbers. Wallace said the cast was “pleasantly surprised” by the film’s enormous popularity, noting that while there was a special feeling during production, no one could have predicted its historic impact.

Steven Spielberg’s Unexpected Hit

Interestingly, Wallace revealed that Steven Spielberg’s horror film Poltergeist, which was also released in 1982, was initially expected to be the director’s biggest success that year. Instead, E.T. became a cultural phenomenon and went on to become one of the highest-grossing films of its time.

The Audience Made the Difference

According to Wallace, even the most talented filmmakers cannot guarantee a hit. She believes a movie’s success ultimately depends on audiences, saying viewers chose to make E.T. their own. She even compared the film’s lasting legacy to The Wizard of Oz, highlighting its enduring place in popular culture.

Life After an Iconic Role

Although playing the unforgettable mother in E.T. opened many doors, Wallace admitted it also led to years of being cast in similar roles. She eventually sought different opportunities, including darker characters, to show audiences and filmmakers the full range of her acting abilities.

A Career Defined by Versatility

Now 77, Wallace remains grateful for a career that has allowed her to work across television, horror, comedy, and drama. Looking back, she says E.T. remains one of the proudest achievements of her career, while also appreciating the chance to take on many different roles in the years that followed.