Once Upon a Mattress (1964): cast, story & where to watch
1964 · Film
Released in 1964, Once Upon a Mattress is a comedy, romance, music and tv movie film directed by Joe Layton, running about 90 minutes. “The Broadway hit comes to the small screen with its original star!” — that tagline sets the tone.
What it’s about. Once Upon a Mattress is a musical comedy with music by Mary Rodgers, lyrics by Marshall Barer, and book by Jay Thompson, Dean Fuller, and Marshall Barer. The musical story of THE PRINCESS AND THE PEA, this television adaption of the 1959 Broadway hit was videotaped in black and white in front of a live audience and featured Burnett, Bova, Gilford, and White from the original Broadway cast, as well as new principals Bill Hayes as the Minstrel, Shani Wallis as Lady Larken and Elliott Gould (in his first appearance on any screen) as the Jester. Due to the reduced running time of 90 minutes, several songs and scenes were either cut or shortened. The conflict concerning Sir Harry and Lady Larkin was downplayed so that they were married in secret.
Who’s in it. Once Upon a Mattress stars Carol Burnett as Princess Winnifred, Jane White as Queen Aggravain, Jack Gilford as King Sextimus and Joseph Bova as Prince Dauntless, among others.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Once Upon a Mattress page.
If you liked it. Fans of Once Upon a Mattress tend to enjoy Forrest Gump, Parasite, Life Is Beautiful and Fight Club.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Once Upon a Mattress (1964)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for Once Upon a Mattress change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Who stars in Once Upon a Mattress?
- Once Upon a Mattress stars Carol Burnett, Jane White, Jack Gilford, Joseph Bova and Elliott Gould.
- When was Once Upon a Mattress released?
- Once Upon a Mattress was released in 1964, with a runtime of about 90 minutes.