Entertainment

Sigourney Weaver surprises students behind viral Alien play

North Bergen High School’s version of the acclaimed sci-fi movie earned plaudits from Weaver and director Ridley Scott.
North Bergen High School’s version of the acclaimed sci-fi movie earned plaudits from Weaver and director Ridley Scott. North Bergen High School’s version of the acclaimed sci-fi movie earned plaudits from Weaver and director Ridley Scott.

Sigourney Weaver has surprised a group of students in the US whose onstage version of Alien became a viral sensation.

The actress, 69, paid a visit to North Bergen High School, New Jersey, on Friday after its students’ take on the sci-fi film was circulated online.

A video posted to the official Alien Twitter page shows Weaver, who played Ellen Ripley in the acclaimed series, meeting the students behind the play.

One is heard shouting: “I love you. You’re my childhood hero. I can’t believe you’re here right now,” before coming forward to embrace her.

Videos of the production went viral last month with fans of the film complimenting its surprisingly detailed costumes and set.

This prompted director Ridley Scott to pen a letter to the North Bergen Drama Club, crediting their “creativity, imagination and determination”.

The group revived the play to celebrate the original film’s 40th anniversary

Weaver’s visit came after she praised the production in a video message last month.

She saluted the “heart and soul” they had put into it.

She said: “I wanted to send our compliments, not only from me but from James Cameron and the original screenwriter Roger Hill. We all say bravo and well done.”