The introduction of Grandmama Frump in the new season of Wednesday seems to be a major disappointment. Where is the chattering, eccentric grandmother we know from the films? The choice of the elegant Joanna Lumley appears to be a considerable miscalculation by the showrunners, but Miles Millar explains what is going on.

The drastic reworking of Grandmama Frump gives the story and the backstory of the Addams family significantly more weight. Lumley's elegant and understated portrayal once again highlights the quality of the production.

Old Character, New Approach

In this respect, the chilling element is almost literal. Hester Frump runs a chain of funeral homes, and her calculating personality perfectly aligns with Wednesday's character, enabling the teenager to form a connection. However, this relationship is quite strained with her mother Morticia (Catherine Zeta-Jones).

Millar describes Grandmama Frump as follows: "The chemistry between her [Lumley] and Jenna [Ortega] is amazing. Of all the 'Addams' characters, she differs the most from the original. She is refined and elegant, which adds a unique element to the series". He adds that Lumley was the show's preferred candidate for the role.

A Rich Addition To The Series

The "sinister glint" in her eyes also makes it clear that Hester aligns with her granddaughter in character. Wednesday has a tense relationship with Morticia and finds in her grandmother someone who fulfills a motherly role. Hester's presence also brings family secrets to light.



The choice to portray Grandmama Frump radically differently is a bold one. In the original comic by Charles Addams, she was depicted as a witchy figure and was also Gomez's mother. In the films, there was also an eccentric woman who spent a lot of time with her grandchildren.

Consistent Development

In Wednesday, she is portrayed as a rich, powerful businesswoman who is in no way planning to bake cookies for the family. For the first time in a long time, the character is developed in detail. This was something missing in the comic, and later adaptations overlooked it. Lumley's portrayal brings Hester Frump to the screen in a bold way. The first half of Wednesday season 2 is now available on Netflix. The second half will be released on September 3rd.

The future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe is still shaky due to the mediocre success of Fantastic Four: First Steps. However, a new report from Disney suggests they have high expectations for a sequel and have already secured a director.

According to Jeff Sneider from 'The InSneider', it is "very likely" that Matt Shakman, who directed the first installment and the miniseries WandaVision, will return to sit behind the camera.

Keeping Hope Alive For The Future

Regarding the current box office results, Sneider notes that, although First Steps is not doing particularly well at the box office, high studio executives at Marvel believe a sequel will perform much better.

They believe that factors such as The Fantastic Four appearing in the next two 'Avengers' blockbusters, namely Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars, will contribute to this better performance.

Currently In Theaters

First Steps takes place against the vibrant backdrop of a 1960s-inspired, retro-futuristic world and introduces Marvel's first family as they face their biggest challenge to date.

A film often relies on actors who want to fully immerse themselves in supporting roles. Gary Busey is one of those stars who helped make films like Lethal Weapon, The Firm, and Point Break timeless classics.

Now aged 81, he has stepped away from acting but fills his Instagram with throwbacks to earlier years. He also showcases how he spends his days through current photos and videos.

Almost Unrecognizable

It's notable that Gary Busey now appears truly old. He looks fragile and is nearly unrecognizable to those who grew up with the blonde, macho man from the 70s. He bears little resemblance to his acclaimed characters from The Buddy Holly Story and Big Wednesday.

The joyful reactions to the video on Instagram speak volumes. One user wrote: "One of my favorite actors from the '80s and '90s. It's great to see you in your 80s!" Another commented: "A living legend!"

Retirement Life

And while Gary may be retired, he still picks up side jobs with a webshop where he sells signed photos from his roles in films like Point Break. His Instagram is also filled with up-to-date videos and photos of his life.

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