On September 17th, 2023, actress Miriam Margolyes made public allegations against renowned actor and comedian Steve Martin, citing their work together on the 1986 movie “Little Shop of Horrors.”
Within the pages of her soon-to-be-released memoir, Margolyes states that Martin, in his role as the dentist Orin Scrivello, overstepped his boundaries during a scene in the film. She alleges that the actions of Martin’s character became all too real when he “repeatedly punched, slapped, and knocked her down,” resulting in her going home with a severe headache.
Margolyes, who has played parts in films like “Harry Potter” and TV series “Blackadder,” has previously spoken out against other notable figures in Hollywood, including Arnold Schwarzenegger, accusing them of inappropriate conduct during shooting.
In response to these allegations, Steve Martin was quick to deny Margolyes’ account. He firmly asserted that there was never any physical contact between them while filming, emphasizing his careful approach during scenes depicting violent acts.
Frank Oz, the director of “Little Shop of Horrors”, further backed Martin’s defense. Oz confirmed that while the script required a simulated punch, Margolyes’ claims were without foundation. Having worked with Martin on multiple projects, Oz spoke highly of him, emphasizing his constant professionalism and courtesy on set.
The diverging accounts of the incident have sparked considerable conversation about the reliability of long-past memories. With Margolyes’ memoir detailing alleged negligence on set, Steve Martin and others involved in the movie’s production, including the director and crew, remain united in their rejection of her narrative.
Further insights into Margolyes’ memoir come from The Los Angeles Times. The publication delves into her experiences and relationships with other celebrities, offering both positive and less favorable stories. Notably, Margolyes anticipates that this memoir might see fewer sales than her previous autobiography from 2021, attributing this to its graver content.
As more information emerges, the entertainment industry and its followers remain engrossed in this evolving story.
