Film
monologue
Comedy

Debbie's Slide Show Monologue

from Addams Family Values

Written by Paul Rudnick

Debbie Jellinsky has the Addams family strapped into electric chairs while she delivers a manic, self-pitying presentation about her history of murdering husbands for failing to meet her high expectations.

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DEBBIE

My last husband. My latest husband. My late husband. Fester. The fool. The corpse. And his adorable family. You took me in. You accepted me. You gave me a wedding. But did any of you love me? Really love me? So I killed the husband. Big deal. You think that makes me a bad person?

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Scene Notes & Audition Tips

5 sections
About This Scene

This comedic monologue features Debbie Jellinsky, a character known for her dramatic flair and sinister intentions, delivering a captivating and self-serving speech. As she presents a slideshow to her captive audience, she revels in her skewed sense of justice and history of disposing of unfulfilling partners. This piece offers a fantastic opportunity for an actor to explore dark humor and a delightfully warped perspective.

Character Analysis

Debbie Jellinsky is a complex and highly theatrical villain. She possesses an exaggerated sense of self-pity and entitlement, believing her murderous actions are entirely justified by the perceived slights and disappointments she's endured. Her emotional range swings from manic glee to a performative vulnerability, all underpinned by a chillingly pragmatic view of human relationships. She craves adoration and a life of luxury, and anyone who stands in her way or falls short of her impossibly high standards becomes expendable.

Why This Works for Auditions

This monologue is a fantastic choice for auditions because it immediately showcases an actor's ability to handle comedic timing, deliver heightened text, and embody a larger-than-life character. Its quirky tone allows for bold choices and a memorable performance, making you stand out in a competitive environment. The inherent drama and comedic potential give you ample room to demonstrate your range within a specific character type.

Best Suited For

This monologue is particularly well-suited for actors aiming for roles that require a strong comedic presence with a dark edge. If you’re auditioning for projects that thrive on quirky characters, femme fatales, or outright villains in a comedic light, this piece will serve you exceptionally well. It's also excellent for general practice to hone your skills in character work and stage presence.

Performance Tips

When performing this monologue, lean into the campy nature of the character without sacrificing emotional truth. Explore the shifts in Debbie's mood, from her self-pitying lament to her gleeful recounting of her past deeds. Pay close attention to vocal variety and physical expressiveness to convey her theatrical personality. Remember that despite her villainous actions, Debbie genuinely believes she is the wronged party, so find the humor in her outrageous justifications and unwavering self-conviction.

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