101 Dalmatians is one of Disney’s most iconic films, spanning multiple adaptations and generations. However, like many classic movies, it has several strange inconsistencies that fans have noticed over the years—things that don’t seem to match their memories. Here are four major Mandela Effects surrounding 101 Dalmatians that might leave you questioning reality.
1. Cruella de Vil or Cruella DeVille?
Many people distinctly remember Cruella’s last name as “DeVille”, which would make sense considering that she drives a luxurious car called the Panther De Ville. However, the reality is that her name has always been spelled Cruella de Vil—a play on the word “devil.”
It’s a small but striking change, as “DeVille” is a more common spelling and would fit with the name of her car. Yet, if you check the animated film, the books, or even the live-action adaptations, you’ll find that it has always been de Vil.
2. Cruella’s Dalmatian Coat That Never Was
Cruella’s entire character revolves around her obsession with fur coats, specifically wanting to turn Dalmatian puppies into a luxurious fur garment. But here’s where things get odd—many people recall her actually wearing a Dalmatian coat, white with black spots, just like the puppies she was after.
In reality, Cruella has never been depicted wearing a Dalmatian coat. In the animated film, her signature coat is a cream-colored fur with a red lining. Even in the live-action movies, Glenn Close’s Cruella never dons a Dalmatian-spotted coat. So why do so many people picture her wearing one?
3. Was Cruella Played by Meryl Streep?
Another major memory discrepancy comes from the live-action films. Many people are convinced that Meryl Streep played Cruella de Vil in the 1996 and 2000 adaptations. The reality? Glenn Close portrayed Cruella in both 101 Dalmatians (1996) and 102 Dalmatians (2000).
This mix-up is fascinating because Glenn Close and Meryl Streep, while both powerhouse actresses, have distinct acting styles and appearances. Yet, for some reason, a large number of fans distinctly remember Meryl Streep playing the role.
4. Dalmations or Dalmatians?
One of the strangest Mandela Effects tied to this movie is the spelling of the title itself. Many people swear that the movie was called 101 Dalmations, but the reality is that it has always been spelled 101 Dalmatians.
The correct spelling—Dalmatians—looks foreign and strange to those who remember “Dalmations.” One might even point out that “Dalmatians” has an almost Martian-like appearance compared to the familiar “Dalmations.” But if you check any official movie poster or book, the correct spelling is—and always has been—Dalmatians.
These Mandela Effects surrounding 101 Dalmatians are just another example of how collective memory doesn’t always align with reality. Whether it’s Cruella’s last name, her coat, an actress who seemingly never played the role, or even the spelling of the movie’s title, something about 101 Dalmatians just doesn’t seem right.
What do you remember? Do these changes seem strange to you? Let us know in the comments!
