The Merry Widow (1926): cast, story & where to watch
1926 · Film · ★ 6.9
Released in 1926, The Merry Widow is a drama and romance film directed by Erich von Stroheim, running about 137 minutes. “The gloriously intoxicating love story of the Merry Widow and her Prince Charming, is revealed at last in a picture production which will take your breath away!” — that tagline sets the tone.
What it’s about. When Prince Danilo falls in love with American dancer Sally O'Hara, his uncle, King Nikita I of Monteblanco, forbids him to marry her because Sally is a commoner. Thinking she has been jilted by her prince, Sally marries wealthy Baron Sadoja. When the elderly man dies suddenly, Sally must be wooed all over again by Danilo.
Who’s in it. The Merry Widow stars Mae Murray as Sally O'Hara - The Merry Widow, John Gilbert as Prince Danilo Petrovich, Roy D'Arcy as Crown Prince Mirko and Josephine Crowell as Queen Milena, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 6.9/10, The Merry Widow has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch The Merry Widow page.
If you liked it. Fans of The Merry Widow tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch The Merry Widow (1926)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for The Merry Widow change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is The Merry Widow worth watching?
- The Merry Widow holds an audience score of 6.9 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy drama and romance. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in The Merry Widow?
- The Merry Widow stars Mae Murray, John Gilbert, Roy D'Arcy, Josephine Crowell and George Fawcett.
- When was The Merry Widow released?
- The Merry Widow was released in 1926, with a runtime of about 137 minutes.