Brad Pitt, George Clooney, Brad Pitt Thelma Louise role [Image Source: YIMG]
Brad Pitt’s Thelma Louise role continues to spark playful tension between him and George Clooney, as revealed in a recent interview with The Times. Decades after Pitt landed the iconic part over Clooney, the friendly banter between the two Hollywood stars is far from over, showing just how pivotal that casting decision proved for their acting careers.
How Clooney Missed Out on a Defining Opportunity
Both Pitt and Clooney auditioned for the role of J.D. in Thelma & Louise, a part that would eventually skyrocket Pitt to fame. Reflecting on that critical moment and the lasting impact, Clooney recalled,
“I got to the final test for a role in Thelma & Louise. And, motherf***er, Brad got it,”
—George Clooney, Actor. Despite Clooney’s own later success, missing out on J.D. affected him deeply, particularly as Pitt’s star rose swiftly following the film’s release.
The setback lingered with Clooney, who spent much of the 1990s taking supporting roles on television, including on Bodies of Evidence, as Pitt transitioned from sitcoms to leading man status in Hollywood. Clooney candidly admitted the loss left a mark:
“I didn’t watch Thelma & Louise for years because I was annoyed. 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***!!”
—George Clooney, Actor.
Pitt’s Ongoing Teasing Reflects Lasting Rivalry
Even with the passing of many years, the friendly ribbing between Pitt and Clooney persists. Clooney eventually watched Thelma & Louise and conceded that Pitt was the right choice for J.D., but revealed that Pitt still doesn’t let him forget who won the role.
Image of: Brad Pitt
“Oh yeah, he gives me s***. Of course, when I saw it, I was, like, well, it had to be that guy.”
—George Clooney, Actor. Clooney’s light-hearted remarks indicate that while the resentment has faded, the competitive spirit and humor remain alive in their friendship.
Adam Sandler Joins in on the Banter
Adam Sandler, Clooney’s current co-star in the film Jay Kelly, added some lightness to the conversation when sharing his reaction to Pitt’s performance in Thelma & Louise.
“I saw that at the cinema and when Brad took his shirt off, people went nuts. But it should have been you, Clooney.”
—Adam Sandler, Actor. Sandler’s joke highlights both Pitt’s impact in the role and the enduring allure of a Hollywood ‘what if.’
Where the Stars Are Now
Today, both George Clooney and Brad Pitt remain major presences in the film industry. Clooney is currently starring alongside Adam Sandler in Jay Kelly, a new comedy-drama directed by Noah Baumbach and now playing in theaters. The candid reflections on their past competition offer insight into how career-defining moments can shape relationships and fuel good-natured rivalry for years to come. The ongoing jokes and shared history between these actors continue to captivate fans, reminding audiences of how even Hollywood’s biggest names are shaped by the roles they win—and lose.
