Jonathan Bennett Advocates for Aaron Samuels’ Straight Portrayal in ‘Mean Girls’ Sequel
Jonathan Bennett, known for his role as Aaron Samuels in the iconic film Mean Girls, recently discussed potential ideas for a sequel to the beloved comedy. During an episode of the I’ve Never Said This Before podcast with Tommy DiDario, Bennett reflected on the character’s portrayal and the status of the sequel.
Jonathan Bennett Supports Straight Portrayal of Aaron Samuels
Amid discussions about character representation, Bennett emphasized that he believes Aaron Samuels should remain straight in any future adaptation. “You wouldn’t go and change the narrative of Aaron Samuels because Jonathan Bennett is gay,” he stated. “You keep the narrative of Aaron Samuels because that’s the story,” he added.
Sequel Hopes and Cast Engagement
The excitement surrounding a potential Mean Girls sequel is palpable among the original cast. Bennett noted that “99 percent of the cast” is eager to return, expressing enthusiasm for the project. He appreciates that many of his co-stars have come out over the years, changing the dynamics of how the film is perceived.
- Original Cast: Jonathan Bennett, Daniel Franzese (Damien), Rajiv Surendra (Kevin G)
- Highlights: Many cast members identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community.
Creative Ideas for the Sequel
Bennett also proposed an intriguing storyline for the sequel. He envisions his character as a high school teacher encountering the original characters now as mothers. “The girls are grown up… their daughters are coming to the school,” he described. This narrative could cater to both millennials who grew up with the film and a new generation of viewers.
According to Bennett, such a sequel would not only allow for a rich exploration of parenting but also connect generations of fans. He humorously urged writer Tina Fey to consider his suggestions, noting, “I ain’t getting any younger, sweetie.”
Character Representation: A Broader Perspective
The topic of representation sparked a reaction from Reneé Rapp, who portrayed Regina George in the Broadway adaptation and the recent film remake. Rapp asserted her belief that Regina George is “absolutely, absolutely gay,” adding another layer to the conversation about character identities within the Mean Girls universe.
This ongoing dialogue highlights the impact of representation in film and the significance of staying true to character histories while embracing modern perspectives. As conversations continue, fans eagerly await the future of Mean Girls and its beloved characters.