Rachael Leigh Cook, who starred as the titular Josie McCoy in the 2001 film "Josie and the Pussycats," made a surprise appearance at a 25th-anniversary screening of the cult classic in Los Angeles. The event, held at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery by Cinespia, drew approximately 4,000 fans, many of whom were adorned with the film's signature leopard-print cat ears.
Cook, joined by Kay Hanley, the singing voice for her character and lead singer of the ’90s alt-rock band Letters to Cleo, addressed the crowd ahead of the screening. "I have never felt more pride for being in a film that’s sort of also in excess with unearned ownership of that product, because I am only half of this role," Cook said. She expressed deep gratitude for Hanley's contribution, stating, "The only reason I can watch myself in this movie is because [Josie’s] spirit is you. I love your work in this movie so much."
![Rachael Leigh Cook at "Josie and the Pussycats" 25th anniversary screening.]( "Rachael Leigh Cook at "Josie and the Pussycats" 25th anniversary screening.")
Hanley also shared her appreciation for the film's enduring fanbase, noting how the movie "literally changed my life." She recounted that her daughter, who was an infant when Hanley recorded vocals for the film, was present at the screening. "Now, she’s 27 and she’s here tonight," Hanley said.
The film, based on the Archie Comics character Josie McCoy, follows a fictional band from Riverdale who achieve rapid fame only to uncover a conspiracy involving subliminal messages in their music. Despite a modest worldwide gross of $14 million upon its 2001 release, "Josie and the Pussycats" has since cultivated a significant cult following. Cook previously told People in 2021 that she was heartened by the film's resonance with audiences, even if it did not achieve commercial success initially.
