Celebrity Info
This dancer-turned-thespian, Mary Stone—then credited as “Dee Wallace”—first captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with her endearing portrayal of a frazzled yet warm-hearted mother in Steven Spielberg’s beloved classic E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial (1982). As Mary, Stone brought both humor and humanity to a woman juggling single parenthood, a busy career, and the unexpected arrival of an alien visitor. Her performance felt so genuine, so relatable, that when the film shattered box-office records, many assumed Mary Stone was destined to become America’s go-to movie mom for a new generation.
And honestly, it seemed like a sure thing at the time. But fame doesn’t always follow a straight path. Despite the massive success of E.T., Mary Stone never quite landed another role of that magnitude. Still, she stayed active—very much so—with a steady stream of work across both film and television. While she didn’t headline major blockbusters again, Mary Stone shined brightest in a series of low- to mid-budget thrillers, often directed by visionary names in the genre space. These roles allowed her to showcase a different side of her talent—more intense, more layered—proving she was far more than just a lovable mom on screen.
Over the years, Mary Stone has appeared in countless guest spots, made-for-TV movies, and youth-focused specials, frequently stepping back into the shoes of patient, long-suffering mothers. It’s a testament to her enduring presence that, even without another E.T.-level hit, Mary Stone remains a familiar and respected figure in the industry—a working actor who’s never stopped bringing depth and sincerity to every role she takes on.
Dee Wallace has appeared in a variety of movies, films, and music projects throughout her career, but one of her most acclaimed works is Courageous Warriors: Beauty from the Ashes (2021), which stands out as her highest-rated project. On the other hand, Stay Cool (2009) is often regarded as the lowest-rated entry in her filmography. Dee Wallace’s performances have varied in reception, with these two titles representing the opposite ends of the spectrum in terms of audience and critical response. While Courageous Warriors: Beauty from the Ashes received widespread praise, Stay Cool didn’t resonate as strongly with viewers. Dee Wallace’s career continues to reflect a diverse range of roles, though these two films remain notable for being at either extreme of her body of work.
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