On September 17th, 2023, the film industry was abuzz with accusations made by actress Miriam Margolyes against esteemed actor and comedian Steve Martin, related to their collaboration on the 1986 film “Little Shop of Horrors.”
In her upcoming memoir, Margolyes alleges that while filming a scene for “Little Shop of Horrors,” Martin, who portrayed the sadistic dentist Orin Scrivello, took his character’s violent actions too far.
According to Margolyes, Martin’s character “repeatedly punched, slapped, and knocked her down,” leading her to return home with a severe headache.
Margolyes, known for roles in movies like “Harry Potter” and TV shows like “Blackadder,” is no stranger to controversy. She has made previous accusations against other Hollywood figures, including Arnold Schwarzenegger, for alleged misconduct on film sets.
Martin was swift to respond to these allegations, contesting Margolyes’ claims. He states emphatically that there was no physical contact between the two during filming, and he took “extreme caution” during any simulated violent acts.
Supporting Martin’s statement, the director of “Little Shop of Horrors,” Frank Oz, affirmed that although the scene was meant to include a fake punch, Margolyes’ accusations held no veracity. Oz, who has collaborated with Martin on four films, expressed his surprise at the allegations and described Martin as consistently professional and respectful on set.
This recent development has instigated a wave of discussions regarding the recollection of events, particularly those from decades ago. While Margolyes’ memoir paints a picture of physical abuse and negligence on set, Steve Martin and other members present during the filming of the controversial scene stand firm in their denial of any mishaps. The film’s director and crew members are crucial witnesses in this unfolding narrative, as they have unanimously voiced support for Martin and his assertion that no accidental or intentional physical contact transpired.
The Los Angeles Times sheds light on other parts of Margolyes’ memoir, which contains an array of stories about her experiences with famous personalities, both flattering and otherwise. She has candid accounts of her interactions with the likes of Martin Scorsese, Kenneth Branagh, Warren Beatty, and Mick Jagger. Interestingly, Margolyes is candid about her expectation regarding the memoir’s reception, predicting it might not sell as well as her 2021 autobiography due to its more serious tone.
For now, fans and industry professionals alike watch keenly as the tale continues to unravel.
