Was Jennifer Coolidge mean to Hilary Duff on the set of A Cinderella Story?

Yes, Hilary Duff stated that Jennifer Coolidge was 'mean' to her during filming to embody her evil stepmother character, which Duff found a little scary at 15.

What role did Jennifer Coolidge play in A Cinderella Story?

Jennifer Coolidge played the role of the greedy and 'evil' stepmother to Hilary Duff's character, Sam, in the 2004 teen romantic comedy 'A Cinderella Story'.

How old was Hilary Duff when filming A Cinderella Story?

Hilary Duff was approximately 15 years old when she filmed 'A Cinderella Story,' playing the lead role of Sam Montgomery.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Coolidge's 'Mean' Role: Duff Recalls Scary Step-Mom Act

Coolidge's 'Mean' Role: Duff Recalls Scary Step-Mom Act

29 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Hilary Duff found Jennifer Coolidge's stepmom portrayal 'mean' and 'scary'.
Duff was 15 when filming 'A Cinderella Story' with Coolidge.
Coolidge's iciness was part of her performance as the evil stepmother.

Coolidge's 'Mean' Role: Duff Recalls Scary Step-Mom Act

Hilary Duff recently shared her experience filming the 2004 movie 'A Cinderella Story,' where she starred alongside Jennifer Coolidge. Duff, who was only 15 during production, recalled Coolidge's portrayal of her "evil stepmother" being genuinely "mean" towards her. This acting choice, while effective for the character, made the experience "a little scary" for the young actress.

Duff explained that she had to constantly remind herself that Coolidge's on-set demeanor was purely performative and not personal. Despite the initial intimidation, Duff expressed admiration for Coolidge's considerable talent and her highly successful career, particularly her recent acclaimed roles. Duff found it impressive and slightly daunting to witness Coolidge's powerful performances as a teenager.