George Clooney has disclosed that Brad Pitt continues to playfully mock him about missing out on the now-iconic Brad Pitt Thelma Louise role, a pivotal part that famously launched Pitt’s film career in 1991. In a recent interview, Clooney reflected on the audition process and ongoing banter between the two Hollywood stars, highlighting the lasting impact of Thelma & Louise on both their lives.
Clooney Recalls Being a Finalist for Thelma & Louise
The 1991 film Thelma & Louise starred Geena Davis and Susan Sarandon as two friends whose road trip turns into a dramatic adventure, ultimately making Brad Pitt’s portrayal of J.D. a breakthrough moment for the young actor. Clooney, now 64, shared how he came close to landing J.D., at a time when he was primarily working in television.
“So, I was in TV. I was making a good living, but back then actors would say, ‘Well, I’m a film actor — I just happen to be doing TV,’”
Clooney revealed to The Times of London.
According to Clooney, he participated in the final auditions for the coveted part, only to lose out to Pitt.
“I got to the final test for a role in Thelma & Louise. And, mother****er, Brad got it.”
This disappointment was significant for Clooney, as he had aspired to transition from TV to major film roles at that point in his career.
The Lasting Impact of J.D. on Both Actors
Brad Pitt, currently 61, gained immense attention for his performance as J.D., especially after his memorable topless scene. Directors had whittled down the competition to a select few, including Grant Show and Mark Ruffalo. Clooney admitted to avoiding watching the film for a long period because of his frustration with missing out.
“I didn’t watch Thelma & Louise for years because I was annoyed,”
he recalled.
“The part launched his career in film. He was doing sitcoms and crap before, so when it was the thing that could’ve launched me? F***!”
Clooney’s honesty underlined the intensity of missing a career-defining moment.
Clooney and Pitt’s long-time friendship has been colored by the role, with Pitt often ribbing Clooney about the casting outcome.
“Oh yeah, he gives me s***,”
Clooney quipped, sharing the ongoing jokes between the pair. Still, Clooney eventually accepted that Pitt was the right choice, saying,
“But, of course, when I saw it, I was, like, well it had to be that guy.”
Others Vied for the Role Opposite Geena Davis
Brad Pitt Thelma Louise role was highly sought after, with several actors competing for the part. According to Geena Davis, who played Thelma, she was asked to read lines with the final candidates to determine on-screen chemistry.
“Once I was cast, it was down to four finalists for that role,”
Davis described on The Graham Norton Show in 2022.
“They said, ‘Would you read with them, so we could see [with] each one?’ [They all] came in, each one was handsome, they all had brown hair and were very talented. I didn’t care who it was going to be.”
Davis noted Pitt was the last actor to audition, making an immediate impression.
“He’s so charismatic and so incredibly talented that I was screwing up his audition because I forgot to say my line,”
she explained.
“I’m like, ‘Wow, he’s really talented.’ I didn’t know if they wanted my opinion or not, but I said, ‘Would you be interested in knowing my reaction?’ They said, ‘Oh, please.’”
Davis ended up favoring “the blonde one,” signaling her support for Pitt’s candidacy, a decision the filmmakers heeded, helping him land the transformative role.
The Audience’s Reaction and Clooney’s Perspective
Adam Sandler, who worked with Clooney on the film Jay Kelly, added his perspective on Pitt’s performance.
“I saw that at the cinema and when Brad took his shirt off people went nuts,”
Sandler recalled to The Times, humorously adding,
“But it should have been you, Clooney.”
Clooney, reflecting on the scene, admitted that the physical requirements of the role confirmed to him that he was perhaps not the best fit.
The casting of Brad Pitt as J.D. not only cemented his Hollywood career but also exemplified the competitive nature of film auditions, where a single opportunity can alter an actor’s trajectory.
Clooney’s Continued Success and Forward-Looking Attitude
Despite missing out on Brad Pitt Thelma Louise role, Clooney’s career quickly flourished, leading to his own breakthrough on the big screen and later earning acclaim as an Oscar winner. He reflected on his current outlook during the Jay Kelly premiere.
“I’m constantly trying to figure things out about myself as I get older,”
Clooney revealed to Us Weekly.
“At this point in my career and life, if somebody writes a really good script and a really good part, which there aren’t that many of, then you just jump on board and try not to mess it up. I’m 64. I’m not really ready to look backwards and sort of rest on [my career]. I sort of enjoy looking forward and seeing what’s coming next.”
The Lasting Legacy of Thelma & Louise’s Casting Choices
The casting story behind Thelma & Louise remains a notable chapter in Hollywood history, showcasing the unpredictability of stardom. Brad Pitt’s rise following his portrayal of J.D. marked a turning point in popular culture, while George Clooney’s continued recognition and bond with Pitt illustrate the connections and rivalries formed in the film industry. Geena Davis’s influence, along with the opportunities given to actors like Mark Ruffalo and Grant Show, demonstrate the collaborative nature of such iconic productions.
As both Clooney and Pitt continue to reflect on the role that contributed so much to their respective careers and friendship, the legacy of Brad Pitt Thelma Louise role endures, reminding audiences and actors alike of the importance—and unpredictability—of casting decisions.
