Casting What-Ifs
Dustin Hoffman, Mel Gibson, and Liam Neeson were earlier John Keating possibilities; River Phoenix wanted Neil, Sam Rockwell auditioned for Charlie, and Lara Flynn Boyle’s role was removed.
In the discussion (7)
Approx. transcript time · 01:04:32Read transcript
- Dustin Hoffman was intended to play Keating and make the film his directing debut. — Bill Simmons
- Mel Gibson was attached while the observed Jeff Kanoe was directing, before cost and creative changes moved the project elsewhere. — Bill Simmons
- The observed Liam Mason reportedly had the role before Robin Williams and Peter Weir joined.
- Peter Weir took the film while Gérard Depardieu’s availability delayed Green Card. — Bill Simmons
- Her role was reportedly edited out, and she was told not to attend the premiere. — Bill Simmons
- River Phoenix wanted to play Neil, but the role went to Robert Sean Leonard. — Bill Simmons
- Sam Rockwell reportedly auditioned for Charlie. — Mallory Rubin