"Cary Elwes Considers 'Princess Bride' Role as Hitting the Jackpot"

Cary Elwes considers himself fortunate to have landed the starring role in the 1987 film 'Princess Bride,' describing it as hitting the jackpot in his career.

The 61-year-old actor gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Westley in Rob Reiner's fantasy comedy. Elwes acknowledges that the film played a pivotal role in launching his Hollywood career, leading to subsequent opportunities, including his role as Robin Hood in Mel Brooks' 'Robin Hood: Men in Tights.'

Reflecting on the enduring popularity of 'Princess Bride,' Elwes expresses gratitude for the continued love and support from fans, noting that the film remains a significant part of his professional life. He reveals that he frequently tours with the movie and consistently sells out shows, describing the experience as "crazy" and "beautiful."

Elwes emphasizes the importance of connecting with audiences as an actor, recognizing the rare fortune of having one's work resonate deeply with viewers. He attributes the success of 'Princess Bride' to this special connection with audiences.

In addition to Elwes, the film starred Robin Wright, Mandy Patinkin, Chris Sarandon, Peter Falk, and Billy Crystal. Despite modest box office numbers upon its initial release, 'Princess Bride' achieved cult classic status over the years.

In 2016, the film was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by America's Library of Congress, recognizing its cultural, historical, and aesthetic significance.

Following 'Princess Bride,' Elwes continued to build a diverse filmography with roles in movies such as 'Glory,' 'Days of Thunder,' 'Bram Stoker's Dracula,' and 'Liar Liar.' His latest project, the spy thriller 'The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare,' was released this month, showcasing his ongoing versatility as an actor.