Geena Davis Joins Sabrina Carpenter's Thelma & Louise Tribute at Coachella

The Oscar-winning actress played an older version of the pop star during her headlining set.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 2:54pm

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An abstract close-up photograph of shimmering sequins and glittering disco ball fragments, reflecting dramatic studio lighting to capture the high-energy glamour of a music festival performance.Sabrina Carpenter's Coachella tribute to the classic film Thelma & Louise brought a touch of nostalgic Hollywood glamour to the music festival.Coachella Today

During the second weekend of Coachella, pop superstar Sabrina Carpenter continued her tribute to the classic film Thelma & Louise by having Oscar-winning actress Geena Davis join her on stage. Davis, who played Thelma in the original 1991 movie, appeared in a vintage car on Carpenter's elaborate set, delivering a monologue as an older version of the pop star looking back on her life and career.

Why it matters

Carpenter's Thelma & Louise tribute at Coachella was a unique and creative way to connect her performance to a beloved classic film. By bringing in the original Thelma, Geena Davis, Carpenter was able to further cement the connection and provide an emotional, nostalgic moment for fans.

The details

Like the previous weekend when Susan Sarandon, who played Louise in Thelma & Louise, joined Carpenter, Davis appeared with a blonde wig in a vintage car on the pop star's stage, delivering a monologue as an older Sabrina. The scene kicked off Act III of Carpenter's 24-song headlining performance.

  • Carpenter's Thelma & Louise tribute took place during the second weekend of Coachella on Friday, April 17th, 2026.
  • In the original 1991 film, Davis played the role of Thelma, while Sarandon played Louise.

The players

Geena Davis

An Oscar-winning actress best known for her role as Thelma in the 1991 film Thelma & Louise.

Sabrina Carpenter

A popular pop singer who headlined the second weekend of Coachella in 2026.

Susan Sarandon

An acclaimed actress who played the role of Louise in the 1991 film Thelma & Louise.

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What they’re saying

“Carpenter did get a shirtless Terry Crews to play as a stage technician at the beginning of Act V (a role played by Will Ferrell the previous week), and in the biggest cameo of her set, the legendary Madonna came out and duetted with her on a few songs.”

— Spencer Kaufman, Author

The takeaway

Sabrina Carpenter's Thelma & Louise tribute at Coachella was a unique and creative way to connect her performance to a beloved classic film. By bringing in the original Thelma, Geena Davis, Carpenter was able to provide an emotional, nostalgic moment for fans and further cement the connection between her music and the iconic movie.