The Silence of the Lambs, released on February 14, 1991, remains one of the most iconic psychological thrillers in cinematic history. Directed by Jonathan Demme and adapted from Thomas Harris’ 1988 novel, the film follows FBI trainee Clarice Starling as she seeks the help of the incarcerated cannibalistic serial killer Dr. Hannibal Lecter to catch another murderer, Buffalo Bill. The movie swept the Academy Awards, winning five major categories: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, and Best Adapted Screenplay—a feat achieved by only two other films before it. Its success was due in large part to the stellar performances of its cast, who brought depth and intensity to their roles. Now, more than three decades later, let’s explore where the key actors of The Silence of the Lambs were then and what they’re up to as of April 2025.

Jodie Foster as Clarice Starling

Then: In 1991, Jodie Foster was already a seasoned actress at 28 years old, having started her career at age three with a Coppertone commercial. She had earned an Oscar for The Accused (1988), but her role as Clarice Starling catapulted her to new heights. Foster’s portrayal of the determined yet vulnerable FBI trainee was a masterclass in balancing strength and fragility. Her chemistry with Anthony Hopkins’ Hannibal Lecter, particularly in their tense, psychological exchanges, became the film’s emotional core. Foster’s performance earned her a second Academy Award for Best Actress, solidifying her status as one of Hollywood’s most talented stars. She later reflected on the role’s significance, noting that Clarice’s quietness and shame about her physical presence made her a unique heroine who connected deeply with the victims she sought to save.

Now: At 62, Jodie Foster remains a powerhouse in the industry, balancing acting, directing, and producing. Since The Silence of the Lambs, she has starred in notable films like Contact (1997), Panic Room (2002), and more recently Nyad (2023), earning her a fifth Oscar nomination. Her role in True Detective: Night Country (2024) as a tough Alaskan police chief won her a Primetime Emmy, showcasing her enduring ability to portray complex law enforcement figures. Foster has also directed films like The Beaver (2011) and episodes of Black Mirror. On a personal note, she has been married to Alexandra Hedison since 2014 and is a mother to two sons, Charlie and Kit, whom she keeps out of the spotlight. In 2025, Foster continues to focus on meaningful projects, with her recent public appearances—like at the Breakthrough Prize Ceremony with Kit—highlighting her commitment to family and impactful storytelling.

Anthony Hopkins as Dr. Hannibal Lecter

Then: Anthony Hopkins, at 53, delivered a career-defining performance as Dr. Hannibal Lecter, the brilliant psychiatrist and cannibalistic serial killer. Hopkins was not the first choice for the role—Sean Connery, Al Pacino, and Robert De Niro were among those considered—but his chilling portrayal, inspired by his work in The Elephant Man (1980), made him the perfect fit. Hopkins initially thought the script’s title suggested a children’s story, but after reading just ten pages, he told his agent, “This is the best part I’ve ever read.” His preparation was minimal yet effective; he drew on real-life serial killers’ behaviors, giving Lecter an eerie stillness and a hypnotic voice. Hopkins’ performance, though only 16 minutes on screen, earned him the Best Actor Oscar, and his line, “I’m having an old friend for dinner,” remains one of cinema’s most iconic closers.

Now: Now 87, Sir Anthony Hopkins, knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1993, continues to be a prolific actor. He reprised Lecter in Hannibal (2001) and Red Dragon (2002), though neither film matched the original’s critical success. Hopkins has since starred in major films like Thor: Ragnarok (2017), The Father (2020)—for which he won his second Oscar—and Rebel Moon (2023-2024). In 2021, he reunited with Foster to reflect on The Silence of the Lambs for its 30th anniversary, revealing he still considered it the best script he’d ever read. Hopkins remains active, with recent roles showcasing his versatility, from historical dramas to sci-fi epics. Based on his continued presence in high-profile projects, Hopkins shows no signs of slowing down, maintaining his status as one of the greatest living actors.

Ted Levine as Jame “Buffalo Bill” Gumb

Then: Ted Levine, aged 33 during filming, played the terrifying Jame “Buffalo Bill” Gumb, the serial killer who skins his female victims to create a “woman suit.” Levine’s performance was haunting, particularly in the infamous “It puts the lotion in the basket” scene, which showcased his ability to embody a deeply disturbed character. To prepare, Levine studied real-life serial killers, bringing a chilling authenticity to Buffalo Bill. His role in The Silence of the Lambs was a breakout, though it initially typecast him as a villain due to the character’s intensity. Levine’s physicality and eerie mannerisms made Buffalo Bill a memorable antagonist, complementing the psychological horror of Lecter.

Now: At 67, Ted Levine has built a robust career, often playing tough or morally ambiguous characters. After The Silence of the Lambs, he appeared in films like Heat (1995) and Shutter Island (2010), and TV shows such as Monk (2002-2009) and The Bridge (2013-2014). More recently, he joined the cast of Big Sky (2020-2023), continuing to work steadily in Hollywood. Levine has also taken on roles in Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom (2018) and A Violent Separation (2019), showing his versatility across genres. While he has largely moved away from the villainous roles that defined his early career, Levine’s performance as Buffalo Bill remains one of his most recognized, often cited in discussions of the film’s impact on the horror genre.

Scott Glenn as Jack Crawford

Then: Scott Glenn, 52 at the time, portrayed Jack Crawford, the head of the FBI’s Behavioral Science Unit and Clarice’s mentor. Glenn’s Crawford is a stoic, authoritative figure who assigns Clarice the daunting task of interviewing Lecter. To prepare, Glenn worked with real FBI agent John Douglas, even listening to a disturbing recording of serial killers to understand the dark world of criminal profiling. Glenn later said this experience gave him all the research he needed, as he “knew more than I really wanted to about that world.” His grounded performance provided a stable counterpoint to the film’s more unhinged characters, offering Clarice a guiding hand in her investigation.

Now: Now 86, Scott Glenn has maintained a steady career in film and television. Known for roles in The Hunt for Red October (1990), The Bourne Ultimatum (2007), and The Hill (2023), Glenn has often played authoritative figures, drawing on his experience as Crawford. His television work includes The Leftovers (2014-2017) and Castle Rock (2018-2019), where he continued to portray complex, often morally conflicted characters. Glenn has been married to Carol Schwartz since 1968, with whom he has two children. While he has taken fewer roles in recent years, his contributions to The Silence of the Lambs remain a highlight of his career, showcasing his ability to bring authenticity to law enforcement roles.

Anthony Heald as Dr. Frederick Chilton

Then: Anthony Heald, 46 during filming, played Dr. Frederick Chilton, the smarmy and ambitious administrator of the Baltimore State Hospital for the Criminally Insane, where Lecter is held. Heald’s Chilton is a self-serving bureaucrat who clashes with Clarice, more interested in fame than justice. Heald brought a mix of arrogance and insecurity to the role, making Chilton a memorable foil to both Clarice and Lecter. His character’s decision to interfere with Lecter’s transfer leads to the latter’s brutal escape, a pivotal moment in the film. Heald, a stage actor, leveraged his theatrical background to give Chilton a larger-than-life quality, enhancing the film’s tension.

Now: At 80, Anthony Heald remains active in both screen and stage work. After The Silence of the Lambs, he appeared in Red Dragon (2002), reprising his role as Chilton, and took on parts in TV shows like Boston Public (2000-2004) and The X-Files. His most recent film, Alone (2020), shows he’s still working, though he has also focused on stage performances, appearing in Broadway plays. Heald has recorded over 60 audiobooks, including The Pelican Brief and Jurassic Park, showcasing his versatility as a performer. He has been married to Robin Ray Herskowitz since 1985, and they have two children. Heald’s portrayal of Chilton continues to be a fan favorite, often cited for its smarmy charm.

Brooke Smith as Catherine Martin

Then: Brooke Smith, 23 at the time, played Catherine Martin, the senator’s daughter kidnapped by Buffalo Bill. Smith gained 25 pounds for the role to portray Catherine as a larger woman, fitting the killer’s victim profile. Her performance in the pit, particularly her desperate cries of “It puts the lotion in the basket,” was harrowing, capturing the terror of captivity. Smith’s role, though limited in screen time, was crucial to the film’s emotional stakes, as Clarice’s mission to save Catherine drives the narrative’s climax. Smith’s raw emotion made Catherine a sympathetic figure, enhancing the film’s suspense.

Now: Now 57, Brooke Smith has built a successful career in television and film. She became widely recognized for her role as Dr. Erica Hahn on Grey’s Anatomy (2006-2008) and has appeared in Ray Donovan (2013-2020) and Big Sky (2020-2023). Smith also starred in films like In Her Shoes (2005) and Fair Game (2010), showing her range as an actress. She married cinematographer Steven Lubensky in 1999, and they have two children. Smith’s role in The Silence of the Lambs remains a defining moment in her career, often remembered for its intensity and emotional impact.

The Legacy of the Cast

The cast of The Silence of the Lambs brought to life a film that redefined the psychological thriller genre, blending horror with cerebral depth. Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins, in particular, delivered performances that remain benchmarks in cinema, their portrayals of Clarice and Lecter etched into cultural memory. Ted Levine, Scott Glenn, Anthony Heald, and Brooke Smith each contributed to the film’s tension and emotional weight, creating a cohesive ensemble that elevated the story. As of April 2025, these actors continue to leave their mark on the industry, their careers a testament to the talent that made The Silence of the Lambs a timeless classic. Whether through new roles, directing, or personal endeavors, their legacies endure, much like the film that brought them together over three decades ago.