Edna Turnblad

Edna Turnblad is one of the main characters of the 1988 film Hairspray, as well as its 2002 musical adaptation, and its 2007 musicalized remake. Since the original film, it has become custom for Edna, a middle-aged woman, to be played by a male. In the original film, Edna is portrayed by drag actor Divine. In the musical adaptation, the role of Edna was originated by Harvey Fierstein. In the 2007 remake, Edna is portayed by actor and singer John Travolta.