20 Years Later: Where the Cast of 'The Phantom of the Opera' Is Today

The sweeping romance, haunting melodies, and mesmerizing performances of The Phantom of the Opera captivated audiences when the film adaptation of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary musical was released in the U.S. on January 21, 2005. Now, 20 years later, let’s catch up with the cast who brought this timeless story to life and discover where their careers have taken them since.

Gerard Butler: From Phantom to Action Hero

Before donning the Phantom’s mask, Gerard Butler had already begun making his mark in Hollywood with roles in Mrs. Brown alongside Judi Dench and TV appearances. However, his haunting portrayal of the enigmatic Phantom showcased not just his acting prowess but his singing talent as well.

Since then, Butler’s career has skyrocketed with leading roles in blockbusters like 300, P.S. I Love You, Olympus Has Fallen, and Den of Thieves: Pantera. He also lent his voice to Stoick in the beloved How to Train Your Dragon animated series.

Looking ahead, Butler is set to reprise his roles as Stoick in the live-action How to Train Your Dragon film and as Mike Banning in the fourth installment of the Has Fallen franchise.

Emmy Rossum: A Voice Beyond Christine

Emmy Rossum’s casting as Christine felt destined, given her background as a young singer with the Metropolitan Opera at Lincoln Center. Already known for roles in Mystic River and The Day After Tomorrow, her performance in The Phantom of the Opera cemented her as a rising star.

Rossum continued to thrive, notably starring as Fiona Gallagher in the hit series Shameless for nine seasons. After leaving the show in 2019, she took on roles in Angelyne (2022) and The Crowded Room (2023). Behind the camera, she directed episodes of Shameless and Modern Love.

In late 2024, she returned to her theatrical roots, performing off-Broadway in Walden. Off-screen, Rossum shares two children with her husband, Mr. Robot creator Sam Esmail, whom she married in 2017.

Patrick Wilson: A Horror Franchise Favorite

The Phantom of the Opera was one of Patrick Wilson’s first major film roles, playing Raoul, the Phantom’s romantic rival. Transitioning from Broadway to film, Wilson quickly established himself as a versatile actor.

He has since starred in critically acclaimed films like Hard Candy, Watchmen, and Prometheus. However, it’s his roles in horror franchises, including Insidious and The Conjuring, that have truly cemented his legacy in Hollywood.

In 2025, Wilson will reprise his role as Ed Warren in The Conjuring: Last Rites. Off-screen, Wilson and his wife Dagmara Domińczyk, whom he married in 2005, have two sons.

Minnie Driver: A Diva On and Off the Stage

Known for her breakout roles in Good Will Hunting and Grosse Pointe Blank, Minnie Driver brought flair and drama to her portrayal of Carlotta, the prima donna of The Phantom of the Opera.

Driver has since enjoyed success on both the big and small screens, starring in The Riches (earning her an Emmy nomination), Speechless, and lending her voice to Arcane.

In her personal life, Driver became a mother in 2008 and celebrated six years with her partner, Addison O’Dea, in 2024.

Miranda Richardson: A Masterful Madame Giry

With two Oscar nominations under her belt before joining the cast of The Phantom of the Opera, Miranda Richardson was already a force in the industry when she portrayed the mysterious Madame Giry.

Post-Phantom, Richardson gained new fans as Rita Skeeter in the Harry Potter films and voiced Mrs. Tweedy in Chicken Run and its 2023 sequel, Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget.

Her resume also includes roles in Parade’s End, Curfew, and World Without End. Richardson continues to be a sought-after talent in film and television.

Ciarán Hinds: From Firmin to Fantasy Worlds

Ciarán Hinds’ performance as the affable theater manager Firmin in The Phantom of the Opera was just one of many notable roles in his storied career.

Since then, Hinds has appeared in films like Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2, as well as the acclaimed series Game of Thrones. In 2021, he earned an Oscar nomination for his performance in Belfast.

Recently, Hinds has appeared in The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power and The Dry. He and his wife, Hélène Patarot, split their time between Paris and London, while their daughter, Aoife Hinds, continues the family’s acting legacy.

Timeless Talent

As The Phantom of the Opera marks its 20th anniversary, its enduring legacy continues to resonate. The film’s star-studded cast has gone on to achieve remarkable careers, reminding fans why this classic tale remains unforgettable.