Rose McGowan Returns to TV as Young Cora in ‘Once Upon A Time’: Unveiling the Queen of Hearts’ Origin Story

The enchanting world of fairy tales and forgotten pasts is about to get a magical boost! Beloved actress Rose McGowan, widely recognized for her captivating role in the hit series Charmed, is set to make a highly anticipated return to television. She will portray a younger version of the formidable Cora, mother of Regina Mills (the Evil Queen), in an upcoming, pivotal episode of ABC’s fantasy drama Once Upon A Time. This exciting casting news, initially reported by HollywoodLife.com‘s sister site Deadline, promises to delve deep into the origins of one of the show’s most enigmatic and villainous characters.

Scheduled to air in 2013, Rose McGowan’s appearance will serve as a crucial flashback episode, meticulously detailing how Cora, originally portrayed by the brilliant Barbara Hershey, evolved into the manipulative and powerful “Mother of All Evil” that viewers have come to fear and simultaneously admire. Fans of the series have long speculated about Cora’s complex past, and this episode is poised to unravel the mysteries behind her motivations and her journey to becoming the infamous Queen of Hearts. McGowan’s casting has already generated significant buzz, not just for her acting prowess but also for the striking physical resemblance she shares with a younger Barbara Hershey, making this a truly inspired choice for the role.

Exploring Cora’s Ruthless Ascent: A Glimpse into the Queen of Hearts’ Past

Cora’s character has been a central antagonist, known for her cunning intellect and ruthless ambition. Her story is deeply intertwined with the destinies of many beloved characters, including her daughter Regina, Rumplestiltskin, and even Snow White’s family. The narrative of Once Upon A Time thrives on its intricate flashback structure, constantly weaving between the enchanted forest’s past and present-day Storybrooke. This particular episode, featuring Rose McGowan, will be a cornerstone in understanding Cora’s transformation, providing essential context to her current actions and her unwavering pursuit of power. It’s a testament to the show’s storytelling that it can continually expand on the backstories of even its most established villains, offering layers of complexity and motivation.

Viewers last witnessed Cora’s significant impact on the December 2 winter finale ofOnce Upon A Time, when she made a dramatic entrance into present-day Storybrooke, accompanied by the swashbuckling Captain Hook (Colin O’Donoghue). Her arrival signaled a new wave of danger and challenges for the town’s inhabitants, particularly for Emma Swan and her parents, Snow White and Prince Charming. The finale also delivered a revelation that, while perhaps not entirely surprising to astute fans, solidified Cora’s villainous identity: she was indeed the mysterious and feared Queen of Hearts, a figure whose tyrannical rule and cruel decrees had long loomed over the residents of Wonderland and the Enchanted Forest. Rose McGowan’s portrayal of young Cora will likely shed light on the very first steps she took down this dark path, revealing the formative experiences that shaped her into this iconic antagonist.

Rose McGowan’s Illustrious Career: From Charmed Witch to Storybrooke Villain

This casting is more than just a brilliant physical match; it’s an exciting return for an actress whose presence on screen has been sorely missed. Rose McGowan’s career boasts a diverse range of roles, but she is arguably most famous for her four-season run as Paige Matthews on the iconic supernatural series Charmed. Joining the show in its fourth season, Paige emerged as the long-lost, half-witch, half-whitelighter sister to Piper (Holly Marie Combs) and Phoebe Halliwell (Alyssa Milano). Her character seamlessly filled the void left by the departure of Shannen Doherty’s Prue, quickly becoming a fan favorite and a crucial part of the “Power of Three.” Paige’s journey of self-discovery, embracing her magical heritage, and fighting demonic forces resonated deeply with audiences, cementing McGowan’s status as a beloved figure in fantasy television.

Following her departure from Charmed, Rose McGowan took a brief hiatus from the demanding schedule of network television. However, she continued to showcase her versatility across various projects. Her return to the small screen saw her join the critically acclaimed medical drama Nip/Tuck for five episodes in 2009, where she delivered a memorable performance. She also made a powerful special appearance on the enduring crime procedural Law & Order: SVU in 2011, demonstrating her dramatic range and ability to tackle complex, sensitive storylines. These roles further solidified her reputation as an actress capable of moving beyond genre-specific performances.

Beyond her notable television work, much of Rose McGowan’s post-Charmed career has unfolded on the big screen, allowing her to explore more experimental and action-oriented roles. She garnered significant attention for her unforgettable performance in Robert Rodriguez and Quentin Tarantino’s genre-bending double feature, 2007’s Grindhouse. In the “Planet Terror” segment, McGowan famously played Cherry Darling, a go-go dancer with a machine gun for a leg, a role that became an instant cult classic and showcased her fearless approach to character. This film, a homage to exploitation cinema, allowed her to embrace a unique blend of horror, action, and dark humor. She continued her foray into action and fantasy films with a role in 2011’s epic adaptation of Conan the Barbarian, further proving her capability to command the screen in diverse cinematic landscapes.

The Perfect Casting: Why Rose McGowan as Young Cora is a Game-Changer

The excitement surrounding Rose McGowan’s casting as young Cora is palpable, and for good reason. As mentioned, the visual likeness between McGowan and a younger Barbara Hershey is uncanny, providing a seamless transition for viewers and adding an incredible layer of authenticity to Cora’s origin story. This isn’t merely about physical resemblance; it’s about capturing the essence of a character. McGowan possesses a captivating intensity and a nuanced ability to portray characters with both vulnerability and steely resolve, qualities that are paramount for understanding Cora’s journey from perhaps a less sinister past to her eventual reign as the Queen of Hearts.

Her experience in fantasy and dramatic roles, especially her background in playing a witch on Charmed, provides her with a unique understanding of the fantastical elements inherent in Once Upon A Time. While Paige Matthews was a heroic figure, McGowan’s ability to imbue characters with depth and a touch of the ethereal will undoubtedly serve her well in exploring Cora’s early dealings with magic and her gradual embrace of darker powers. This role offers her a compelling opportunity to work her magic once again, but this time on the other side of the magical spectrum, delving into the complexities of villainy and ambition. Fans are eager to witness her interpretation of the character, anticipating a performance that will enrich the show’s narrative and provide a deeper understanding of Cora’s formidable persona.

Anticipation Builds for a Pivotal ‘Once Upon A Time’ Episode

The addition of Rose McGowan to the cast of Once Upon A Time for this crucial flashback episode is a testament to the show’s commitment to quality storytelling and its ability to attract high-caliber talent. Her appearance is expected to be a highlight of the season, not only for fans of McGowan but also for those deeply invested in the intricate lore of Storybrooke and the Enchanted Forest. The episode promises to answer long-standing questions about Cora’s past, her relationships, and the pivotal moments that led her to become one of the most memorable antagonists in recent television history. As Once Upon A Time continues to explore the nuances of good and evil, family curses, and the power of belief, Rose McGowan’s portrayal of young Cora will undoubtedly be a pivotal piece of the puzzle, offering insights into the genesis of a truly iconic villain. Get ready to be enchanted, intrigued, and perhaps even a little frightened, as Rose McGowan takes us on a journey into Cora’s dark and fascinating past.

Are you excited to see Rose McGowan back on TV, and playing another witch (albeit a darker one) no less? What are your predictions for young Cora’s backstory? Drop a comment with your thoughts on her new role and what you hope to learn!

Source: Deadline

— Andy Swift

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More Once Upon A Time on HollywoodLife.com:

1. ‘Once Upon A Time’ Recap: Did Emma & Snow Return To Storybrooke?
2. ‘Once Upon A Time’ Recap: Snow & Charming Reunite — And It’s Hot
3. ‘Once Upon A Time’: Are Sparks Flying Between Charming & Ruby?