Leonardo DiCaprio’s Oscar-nominated breakthrough in What’s Eating Gilbert Grape marked a pivotal turning point for the young actor, and now, Corey Feldman alleges he was ousted from the same role due to a decision made by Johnny Depp. Feldman’s claims, made during a recent podcast interview, have brought renewed attention to the backstory behind the film’s casting and its impact on both actors’ careers.
How DiCaprio’s Role in ‘What’s Eating Gilbert Grape’ Changed His Life
In the early 1990s, Hollywood newcomer Leonardo DiCaprio was searching for the right opportunity to establish himself. That moment arrived with What’s Eating Gilbert Grape, the adaptation of Peter Hedges’ novel, set in a quiet Iowa town. The story centers on Gilbert Grape, played by Johnny Depp, whose life involves caring for his autistic brother Arnie and their mother, while longing for something more beyond his rural surroundings.
DiCaprio’s portrayal of Arnie Grape was a major highlight of the film. Known for its ensemble cast that included Juliette Lewis, Mary Steenburgen, and Laura Harrington, the movie captivated audiences with its emotional depth and dramatic twists, standing out among other coming-of-age films of the 1990s. DiCaprio dedicated himself to the part by studying autistic children and mentally ill teens, focusing on their mannerisms in order to realistically embody Arnie’s complex personality.
This commitment to authenticity resulted in DiCaprio receiving both Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations for his performance—an achievement that elevated his status in the industry and established him as one of Hollywood’s most respected actors.
Corey Feldman Alleges He Was Removed from the Cast at Depp’s Urging
While DiCaprio’s career enjoyed a meteoric rise, Corey Feldman has recently sparked controversy by revealing his perspective on the film’s casting history. During an appearance on Billy Corgan’s podcast, Magnificent Others, Feldman stated that he was initially cast as Arnie in What’s Eating Gilbert Grape. At the time, Feldman was well-known for his roles in The Goonies and Stand By Me. He shared his lingering disappointment over losing the role:
“I was actually cast to play Leonardo DiCaprio’s role. I never saw the film because I’m still bitter. Bitter leaf in that one. But yes, I was originally cast for that role.”
—Corey Feldman, Actor
Feldman further detailed that Johnny Depp was responsible for lobbying producers to replace him, making personal objections about his reputation:
“He was cast after I was, and apparently whispered into the producers’ ear that he wasn’t fond of me, and thought — he said that I was a junkie and that he didn’t work with junkies…I had just gotten sober. As you can imagine, there was a bit of a thorn in the side on that one. And, had I not been pushed out and done that role, who knows what would have happened from that point forward.”
—Corey Feldman, Actor
This account reveals Feldman’s ongoing emotional conflict and the sense of lost opportunity he associates with the project. He also mentioned that he faced a similar situation with James Cameron’s Titanic, claiming to have vied for the lead role of Jack Dawson, only to see DiCaprio land that career-defining part as well:
“there was kind of a double banger with Leo.”
—Corey Feldman, Actor
The Impact of the Casting on Hollywood Careers
Following the release of What’s Eating Gilbert Grape, DiCaprio’s profile soared, leading to lead roles in Romeo + Juliet and, just a few years later, Titanic—both of which cemented his superstar status and sparked widespread fan enthusiasm known as “Leo-mania.” His trajectory included critically acclaimed performances in movies like Catch Me If You Can, The Departed, and The Revenant, solidifying his place as a leading man in Hollywood.
Meanwhile, Feldman’s path diverged drastically. While DiCaprio’s star rose, Feldman found himself working primarily in direct-to-video features and horror sequels such as Voodoo and Lost Boys: The Tribe, along with a foray into reality television alongside Corey Haim in The Two Coreys. Feldman’s reflection on his missed opportunities reveals both regret and unresolved feelings about his professional journey.
Despite these setbacks, Feldman might yet experience a revival: a sequel to The Goonies has been announced for release in February 2025, and several original cast members are expected to return in their iconic roles, potentially giving Feldman a new chance to reconnect with audiences.
The Ongoing Legacy of ‘What’s Eating Gilbert Grape’
Leonardo DiCaprio’s Oscar-nominated breakthrough in What’s Eating Gilbert Grape remains a defining achievement within his career and is often seen as the foundation for his subsequent accolades and roles. Feldman’s recent comments have brought renewed scrutiny to the circumstances naming the producers, Johnny Depp, and Laura Harrington, as well as director James Cameron and screenwriter Peter Hedges, all as critical contributors to the legacy of the project. As the film’s influence endures, both the triumphs and regrets of its cast continue to reverberate through their personal and professional histories.
The emotional tension and conflicted nature of Feldman’s story offer a glimpse into how a single casting decision can alter the course of multiple careers in Hollywood. With DiCaprio now recognized as one of the industry’s most talented and awarded actors, and Feldman seeking new opportunities in the wake of his claims, the repercussions of What’s Eating Gilbert Grape still resonate decades later.
