Additional Coverage:
- Michelle Pfeiffer admits why she broke ‘risky’ marriage pact with husband David E. Kelley (foxnews.com)
Michelle Pfeiffer and her husband, acclaimed TV creator David E. Kelley, are teaming up for the first time in over three decades of marriage with the new Apple+ series “Margo’s Got Money Troubles.” The show is adapted from Rufi Thorpe’s best-selling novel of the same name.
In the series, 67-year-old Pfeiffer takes on the role of Shyanne Millet, a former Hooters waitress from Orange County. Shyanne struggles with the fallout when her daughter, Margot (played by Elle Fanning), unexpectedly becomes pregnant and turns to OnlyFans to support herself financially.
Kelley, 70, known for his work on hit series like “Ally McBeal,” “Boston Legal,” and “Big Little Lies,” and Pfeiffer had previously avoided working together to protect their marriage, viewing collaboration as too risky. However, Pfeiffer revealed on “Today” that the character of Shyanne was simply too compelling to pass up.
“There was this book on the kitchen counter, and I kept noticing it,” Pfeiffer said. “David told me, ‘There’s a part in here that everyone thinks only you can play.’ I read it and immediately connected with Shyanne, especially since she’s from Orange County like me.”
The couple met in 1993 through a blind date set up by a friend, and despite an initially awkward meeting, they quickly began dating. Pfeiffer had already started adopting her daughter Claudia Rose at the time, and Kelley later adopted her as well. They married later that year and welcomed their son John Henry the following year.
Pfeiffer has long admired Kelley’s writing, especially his nuanced female characters, but remained cautious about mixing work and marriage. “I value our relationship more than a role,” she said in a previous interview. “We’re both intense when we work, and I want him on my side at the end of the day.”
Despite those reservations, the project felt right for both of them. Kelley shared that casting was effortless, with Fanning “owning” the role of Margot from the start and Pfeiffer being the perfect fit for Shyanne.
At the SXSW Film & TV Festival premiere, Pfeiffer praised the production, calling it “one of the best I’ve ever worked on,” and highlighted the strong, talented cast and crew. She also reflected on her character’s struggles: a single mother thrown into survival mode after an unplanned pregnancy, determined to give her daughter a better life despite their complicated relationship.
Kelley applauded Pfeiffer’s portrayal, noting the complexity she brought to Shyanne-a character who could come off as harsh but is ultimately motivated by love. Executive producer Eva Anderson also praised Pfeiffer’s professionalism, noting she never “pulled the wife card” during filming.
Working closely on the series gave Kelley a new appreciation for Pfeiffer’s craft. “Watching her bring my words to life was eye-opening,” he said. “I saw the nuances she added, and I was really impressed.”
Pfeiffer admitted she felt some pressure not to disappoint her husband, given his history of writing strong female roles. “I’ve always admired his work and hoped to do justice to his beautiful scripts,” she said.
“Margo’s Got Money Troubles” marks a milestone for the couple both personally and professionally, blending their talents to tell a compelling story about family, challenges, and resilience.