In the discussion (8)
Approx. transcript time · 01:18:29Read transcript
- United Artists reportedly wanted Redford, Ryan O’Neal, Burt Reynolds or James Caan; this is defended as plausible studio thinking rather than ideal casting. — Bill Simmons
- O’Neal is rejected as too handsome and WASPy. — Bill Simmons
- Caan as Rocky with Keitel or Cazale as Paulie is imagined. — Chris Ryan
- Caan and Reynolds are challenged as too established; the unknown Stallone makes the audience root for the real performer too. — Bill Simmons
- Ken Norton reportedly withdrew from Apollo before Carl Weathers took the role. — Bill Simmons
- Stallone reportedly wanted Harvey Keitel for Paulie. — Bill Simmons
- Carrie Snodgress reportedly left Adrian over money; Cher and Susan Sarandon auditioned, with Sarandon judged too pretty. — Bill Simmons
- Lee Strasberg reportedly wanted too much money to play Mickey.