Sigourney Weaver Reflects on Influential Ellen Ripley in ‘Alien’ Franchise

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Sigourney Weaver, famous for her role in Alien, looks back on the impact of her character, Ellen Ripley. She’s amazed by how much of a lasting influence Ripley has had, especially considering the character first appeared in 1979. Ripley quickly became a groundbreaking and fearless hero, successfully battling the terrifying alien creatures. Today, she’s remembered as one of the most popular and important characters in science fiction and film history.

Sigourney Weaver hasn’t portrayed Ripley in nearly three decades, but the character remains a favorite from her extensive acting career. During a recent appearance at the Red Sea International Film Festival, as part of a conversation event, the 76-year-old actress discussed Ripley and how she first gained recognition through the role. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Weaver explained that Ripley’s status as a feminist icon wasn’t initially planned by the writers, and she shared her thoughts on why the character has become such a significant and influential female figure in modern culture.

We were just hoping to make a solid little movie, and the writers came up with this really interesting idea. The original script focused on ten men, but they decided to set it in space with a mixed-gender crew – they even joked about them being like space truckers! The clever part was that they thought audiences wouldn’t expect the female character to be the one who ultimately survived and became the hero. It was all about serving the story, honestly. We weren’t intentionally trying to make some big feminist statement, though it kind of ended up being that anyway.

Looking back, I see that movie was really ahead of its time – though, honestly, all movies seem that way eventually. What I especially loved was the character of Ripley. It’s incredible how much of an impact she’s had. I think it’s because she embodies self-reliance and shows us that women don’t need rescuing. I truly believe women are the ones who keep everything together, and that’s just my honest opinion.

Ultimately, Ellen Ripley Became One of the Most Memorable Characters in Science Fiction


20th Century Studios

Even though she only appeared in four movies within the long-running franchise, Ripley remains the most recognizable character. She first impressed audiences in Ridley Scott’s groundbreaking 1979 film, but it was the 1986 sequel that truly established her as a powerful and influential figure in science fiction. Sigourney Weaver herself credits director James Cameron with being key to the character’s development into a cinematic icon.

I feel incredibly fortunate to have worked with Jim Cameron, starting with this first project and continuing to do so today. It was then I understood how much of a cultural icon Ripley had become. Cameron crafted a fantastic film centered on her compelling story – a story many of us can relate to. Ripley is an outcast forced into an unwanted situation, yet she rises to the challenge and saves everyone. The script itself is just beautifully written.

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2025-12-12 17:02