Casting What-Ifs
Travolta; Reeve; disputed Chevy Chase; Christie; Farrow; uncertain Streep and Lange
In the discussion (10)
Approx. transcript time · 00:36:50Read transcript
- Travolta was announced in 1978 and photographed in Armani, then withdrew shortly before filming; the official explanation involved his mother’s death and father’s illness.
- Schrader’s alternative explanations invoke Scientology, discomfort with gay themes and a final-cut demand; the discussion explicitly calls these unverified speculation and notes his tendency to provoke.
- Gere reportedly became the fourth choice two weeks before filming; his earlier Looking for Mr. Goodbar role had put him on the map before this breakthrough.
- Travolta’s sexual charisma could work, but Gere is preferred for attractiveness and a convincing unknown past; ambiguity about the character’s sexuality is discussed as part of both actors’ potential appeal.
- Christopher Reeve reportedly declined a million dollars; Diller wanted him but Schrader opposed his all-American quality and undermined the choice. Suitability remains disputed, largely negative.
- The internet claim that Chevy Chase declined is disbelieved, and a serious Chase performance is rejected despite Schrader’s later unconventional Harrelson casting in The Walker.
- Julie Christie was initially cast opposite Travolta and is strongly preferred by one voice, though another refuses to choose between her and Hutton.
- Mia Farrow reportedly gave the best audition but overpowered Travolta; Sue Mengers arranged a Hutton test that suited him, and Schrader avoided another risky change after replacing the lead with Gere.
- Farrow is defended as an underrated actor who could have played an unusually sexy role outside her familiar Allen-film image.
- Reports that Streep and Lange declined remain unconfirmed or ambiguous about whether a firm offer existed; both are considered appealing alternatives.