Premiering March 7, 2025, Queen of the Ring is a powerful and inspiring biographical drama that tells the true story of Mildred Burke, the pioneering woman who revolutionized professional wrestling. Directed by a visionary filmmaker, the movie chronicles Burke’s rise from a waitress in the Great Depression to becoming one of the most celebrated and influential wrestlers of all time. With its mix of intense drama, thrilling wrestling sequences, and a story of resilience and empowerment, Queen of the Ring is a must-watch for fans of sports history and underdog stories.
Set against the backdrop of the male-dominated wrestling world of the 1930s and 1940s, the film explores themes of perseverance, ambition, and breaking barriers. Featuring a stellar ensemble cast, breathtaking cinematography, and a gripping narrative, Queen of the Ring is a celebration of Mildred Burke’s indomitable spirit and her lasting impact on the world of sports.
The Cast of Queen of the Ring: Everything You Need to Know
1- Emily Bett Rickards as Mildred Burke
The Cast of Queen of the Ring: Everything You Need to KnowEmily Bett Rickards, born July 24, 1991, in Vancouver, Canada, is best known for her role as Felicity Smoak in Arrow. In Queen of the Ring, she takes on the challenging role of Mildred Burke, the trailblazing wrestler who defied societal norms to become a legend. Rickards’ portrayal captures Burke’s determination, strength, and vulnerability, bringing the iconic figure to life with authenticity and heart.
Rickards’ ability to convey both physical and emotional strength makes her a perfect fit for the role. Her performance anchors the film, showcasing Burke’s journey from an underdog to a wrestling pioneer.
2- Josh Lucas as Billy Wolfe
Josh Lucas, born June 20, 1971, in Little Rock, Arkansas, is a versatile actor known for A Beautiful Mind, Sweet Home Alabama, and Ford v Ferrari. In Queen of the Ring, he plays Billy Wolfe, Burke’s husband, manager, and eventual adversary. Lucas’s portrayal of Wolfe captures the character’s charm, ambition, and darker complexities, making him a compelling figure in the story.
Lucas’s ability to balance charm and menace adds depth to the film, as Wolfe’s relationship with Burke evolves from partnership to conflict. His performance highlights the challenges Burke faced both in and out of the ring.
3- Tyler Posey as G. Bill
Tyler Posey, born October 18, 1991, in Santa Monica, California, is known for his role in Teen Wolf. In Queen of the Ring, he plays G. Bill, a young and ambitious wrestler who becomes one of Burke’s closest allies. Posey’s portrayal of G. Bill captures the character’s energy and loyalty, adding a touch of youthful optimism to the film.
Posey’s chemistry with Emily Bett Rickards makes their on-screen friendship a highlight of the movie. His character’s journey reflects the themes of camaraderie and support that are central to the story.
4- Walton Goggins as Jack Pfefer
Walton Goggins, born November 10, 1971, in Birmingham, Alabama, is a celebrated actor known for Justified, The Hateful Eight, and Vice Principals. In Queen of the Ring, he plays Jack Pfefer, a flamboyant and eccentric wrestling promoter. Goggins’ portrayal of Pfefer adds humor and intrigue to the film, as he becomes both an ally and a rival to Burke.
Goggins’ ability to embody quirky and complex characters makes Pfefer a standout. His performance adds a layer of unpredictability to the story, keeping audiences engaged.
5- Francesca Eastwood as Mae Young
Francesca Eastwood, born August 7, 1993, in Redding, California, is an actress known for Jersey Boys and Outlaws and Angels. In Queen of the Ring, she plays Mae Young, a fellow wrestler and friend to Mildred Burke. Eastwood’s portrayal of Young captures the character’s toughness and camaraderie, making her a key part of the ensemble.
Eastwood’s performance adds depth to the film, as Young’s friendship with Burke highlights the solidarity among women in the wrestling world. Her character’s journey reflects the challenges and triumphs of female wrestlers during the era.
6- Marie Avgeropoulos as Elvira Snodgrass
Marie Avgeropoulos, born June 17, 1986, in Thunder Bay, Canada, is known for her role in The 100. In Queen of the Ring, she plays Elvira Snodgrass, a rival wrestler who becomes one of Burke’s toughest opponents. Avgeropoulos’s portrayal of Snodgrass captures the character’s intensity and determination, adding drama to the wrestling sequences.
Detail: Queen of the Ring Cast, Story, Release Date, Trailer & Everything We Know
Avgeropoulos’s ability to convey strength and vulnerability makes Snodgrass a compelling antagonist. Her rivalry with Burke drives much of the film’s tension, showcasing the competitive spirit of the wrestling world.
7- Kailey Farmer as June Byers
Kailey Farmer, a rising actress, plays June Byers, a wrestler who becomes one of Burke’s most formidable rivals. Farmer’s portrayal of Byers captures the character’s ambition and grit, making her a memorable part of the story.
Farmer’s performance adds intensity to the film, as Byers’ rivalry with Burke becomes a central conflict. Her character’s journey reflects the challenges of competing in a male-dominated industry.
8- Cara Buono as Bertha
Cara Buono, born March 1, 1974, in The Bronx, New York, is known for Stranger Things and Mad Men. In Queen of the Ring, she plays Bertha, a mentor figure to Mildred Burke. Buono’s portrayal of Bertha captures the character’s wisdom and resilience, making her a grounding presence in the film.
Buono’s ability to convey warmth and strength makes Bertha a standout character. Her guidance and support play a crucial role in Burke’s journey, highlighting the importance of mentorship.
9- Gavin Casalegno as Joe Jr.
Gavin Casalegno, born September 2, 1999, in Dallas, Texas, is known for The Vampire Diaries and The Summer I Turned Pretty. In Queen of the Ring, he plays Joe Jr., a young wrestler who looks up to Burke. Casalegno’s portrayal of Joe Jr. captures the character’s admiration and determination, adding a touch of youthful energy to the film.
Casalegno’s performance adds heart to the story, as Joe Jr.’s journey reflects the impact of Burke’s legacy on the next generation of wrestlers.
10- Adam Demos as Gorgeous George
Adam Demos, born May 7, 1985, in Wollongong, Australia, is known for Sex/Life and UnREAL. In Queen of the Ring, he plays Gorgeous George, the flamboyant and iconic wrestler who becomes a rival to Burke. Demos’s portrayal of George captures the character’s charisma and showmanship, making him a memorable part of the film.
Demos’s ability to embody larger-than-life characters adds excitement to the wrestling sequences. His rivalry with Burke highlights the clash of personalities in the wrestling world.
11- Deborah Ann Woll as Gladys Gillem
Deborah Ann Woll, born February 7, 1985, in Brooklyn, New York, is known for Daredevil and True Blood. In Queen of the Ring, she plays Gladys Gillem, a journalist who becomes an ally to Burke. Woll’s portrayal of Gillem captures the character’s intelligence and determination, making her a key part of the story.
Woll’s performance adds depth to the film, as Gillem’s support helps Burke navigate the challenges of fame and scrutiny. Her character’s journey reflects the importance of allies in breaking barriers.
12- Kelli Berglund as Nell Stewart
Kelli Berglund, born February 9, 1996, in Murrieta, California, is known for Now Apocalypse and The Goldbergs. In Queen of the Ring, she plays Nell Stewart, a young wrestler inspired by Burke. Berglund’s portrayal of Stewart captures the character’s ambition and admiration, adding a fresh perspective to the story.
Berglund’s performance adds energy to the film, as Stewart’s journey reflects the impact of Burke’s legacy on aspiring female wrestlers.
13- Damaris Lewis as Babs Wingo
Damaris Lewis, born October 10, 1990, in Brooklyn, New York, is a model and actress known for Black Lightning and Billions. In Queen of the Ring, she plays Babs Wingo, a charismatic wrestler who becomes a fan favorite. Lewis’s portrayal of Wingo captures the character’s confidence and flair, making her a standout in the ensemble.
Lewis’s ability to embody bold and dynamic characters adds excitement to the wrestling sequences. Her character’s journey highlights the diversity and talent in the wrestling world.
14- Martin Kove as Al Haft
Martin Kove, born March 6, 1946, in Brooklyn, New York, is known for The Karate Kid and Cobra Kai. In Queen of the Ring, he plays Al Haft, a wrestling promoter who becomes a key figure in Burke’s career. Kove’s portrayal of Haft captures the character’s gruff demeanor and hidden respect for Burke, adding depth to the story.
Kove’s performance adds gravitas to the film, as Haft’s support helps Burke achieve her dreams. His character’s journey reflects the evolving attitudes toward women in wrestling.
15- James E. Cornette as NWA Commissioner
James E. Cornette, a legendary wrestling manager and commentator, plays the NWA Commissioner, a figure who oversees the wrestling world. Cornette’s portrayal of the Commissioner adds authenticity to the film, as he brings his real-life experience to the role.
Cornette’s performance adds a touch of realism to the story, grounding the film in the history of professional wrestling.
16- Dean Hill as Atlanta Ring Announcer
Dean Hill, a veteran ring announcer, plays the Atlanta Ring Announcer, adding authenticity to the wrestling scenes. Hill’s experience in the wrestling world brings a sense of realism to the film, making the matches feel dynamic and exciting.
Hill’s performance adds energy to the wrestling sequences, immersing viewers in the world of professional wrestling.
