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Some TV roles are so perfectly cast, it’s hard to imagine anyone else playing them. But behind every iconic character is a casting story full of what-ifs and near-misses. From megastars who passed to unknowns who were nearly chosen, these 22 actors almost landed legendary TV roles—and the history of television could’ve looked very different.
1. Dana Delany as Carrie Bradshaw – Sex and the City
Imagine a world where Dana Delany struts down Manhattan’s streets as Carrie Bradshaw. Before Sarah Jessica Parker brought her iconic flair to the role, Delany was offered the part. Concerned about the risqué subjects, she declined. This decision allowed Parker to redefine fashion-forward feminism and become a symbol for single women everywhere. Delany’s choice, while perhaps a missed opportunity, led to a seamless blend of character and actor that viewers adore. Her almost-casting remains an intriguing what-if in television lore.
2. Eric Stoltz as Ross Geller – Friends
Eric Stoltz nearly became the pivot of Friends as Ross Geller. Known for his serious roles, Stoltz was in the running before David Schwimmer claimed the part. This casting could have made Ross a moodier, more dramatic character. However, Schwimmer’s comedic timing and lovable awkwardness turned Ross into a beloved figure. Eric’s involvement would have undoubtedly changed the dynamics of the central group, making this an intriguing casting near-miss in sitcom history.
3. Matthew Broderick as Walter White – Breaking Bad
Picture Matthew Broderick in the role of a lifetime as Walter White. Before Bryan Cranston’s jaw-dropping transformation in Breaking Bad, Broderick was high on the casting list. Known for lighter roles, Matthew could have taken the character down an entirely different path. However, Cranston’s portrayal became legendary, making Walter White a household name. Broderick’s near-role remains a captivating what-if scenario, highlighting the importance of casting in defining television masterpieces.
4. Rebecca Gayheart as Inara Serra – Firefly
Rebecca Gayheart was originally cast as Inara Serra in Firefly and even filmed some scenes. However, her portrayal lacked the on-screen chemistry needed, leading to her replacement by Morena Baccarin. This change allowed Baccarin to infuse the character with elegance and strength, becoming a fan favorite. Gayheart’s brief involvement with the show adds an intriguing layer to Firefly’s already rich history, showcasing how crucial casting chemistry is in creating memorable characters.
5. Tom Selleck as Mitch Buchannon – Baywatch
Imagine Tom Selleck running in slow motion along the beaches of Baywatch. Before David Hasselhoff became synonymous with the series, Selleck was considered for the role of Mitch Buchannon. Scheduling conflicts with Magnum, P.I. kept him from donning the red shorts. This twist of fate allowed Hasselhoff to become a global lifeguard icon, while Selleck continued his own path to television fame. The almost-casting is a fascinating nugget in the annals of TV history, showing how timing can shape careers.
6. Nancy McKeon as Monica Geller – Friends
Nancy McKeon, fresh from The Facts of Life, auditioned for the role of Monica Geller in Friends. Her experience and charisma made her a strong contender, but ultimately, the part went to Courteney Cox. Cox’s neurotic charm and comedic flair brought Monica to life, making her one of TV’s most beloved characters. McKeon’s near-role adds a layer of intrigue to the Friends casting saga, illustrating how different choices could have shaped the dynamic of one of television’s most iconic ensembles.
7. Freddie Prinze Jr. as Joey Tribbiani – Friends
Freddie Prinze Jr. was reportedly in the running to play Joey Tribbiani on Friends. His boyish charm and charisma made him a strong candidate, but the role ultimately went to Matt LeBlanc. LeBlanc’s portrayal of Joey as a lovable goofball captured audiences’ hearts worldwide, adding depth and humor to the group dynamics. Prinze’s missed opportunity remains an intriguing footnote in Friends’ casting history, showcasing how a single decision can shape a character’s legacy.
8. Megan Mullally as Carrie Bradshaw – Sex and the City
Before Sarah Jessica Parker made Carrie Bradshaw a household name, Megan Mullally auditioned for the role. Known for her comedic prowess, Mullally could have brought a different dynamic to the character, possibly adding more humor. However, casting went another direction, allowing Mullally to later shine as Karen Walker in Will & Grace. Her near-role as Carrie is an intriguing chapter in TV casting history, showcasing the unpredictable nature of the industry.
9. Liam Neeson as Rick Grimes – The Walking Dead
Liam Neeson, with his commanding presence, was reportedly approached to play Rick Grimes in The Walking Dead. Known for his intense roles, Neeson could have brought a grittier, more brooding edge to the character. However, the role eventually went to Andrew Lincoln, whose portrayal captured the complexity and emotional depth of Rick’s journey. Neeson’s almost-casting is a fascinating what-if in the world of TV, highlighting how different actors can shape a character’s evolution.
10. John Travolta as Fonzie – Happy Days
Did you know John Travolta almost donned Fonzie’s leather jacket in Happy Days? Before Henry Winkler became synonymous with “The Fonz,” producers had Travolta in mind. Imagine his youthful charm lighting up the screen. John, however, opted for a path that led him to silver screen stardom. His choice paved the way for Winkler to step in and turn the character into a cultural phenomenon. With “ayyy” becoming a household catchphrase, it’s hard to picture anyone else in the role. Thus, Travolta’s almost-casting is a fascinating footnote in TV history.
11. Danny DeVito as George Costanza – Seinfeld
The creators of Seinfeld briefly considered Danny DeVito for the role of George Costanza. Known for his sharp comedic timing, DeVito could have brought a unique flavor to the neurotic character. Ultimately, Jason Alexander’s performance became iconic, perfectly capturing George’s quirks and insecurities. DeVito’s potential involvement remains an intriguing what-could-have-been in sitcom lore, illustrating how pivotal casting decisions can define a show’s legacy.
12. Téa Leoni as Rachel Green – Friends
Téa Leoni was in talks to play Rachel Green on Friends but turned down the role to pursue other projects. Her decision opened the door for Jennifer Aniston, whose portrayal of Rachel became a cultural touchstone. Aniston’s performance not only launched her career but also set fashion trends for a decade. Leoni’s missed opportunity is a curious chapter in the show’s history, showing how one decision can change the trajectory of an actor’s career and a show’s legacy.
13. Katie Holmes as Buffy Summers – Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Katie Holmes, known for her girl-next-door charm, was offered the role of Buffy Summers but declined to finish high school. This decision paved the way for Sarah Michelle Gellar, whose portrayal of the iconic vampire slayer captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Holmes’ almost-casting is an interesting twist in TV casting history, highlighting how personal choices can lead to iconic roles being filled differently, ultimately shaping the show’s success.
14. Paul Giamatti as Michael Scott – The Office
Paul Giamatti was considered for the role of Michael Scott in The Office but passed on the opportunity. Known for his dramatic roles, Giamatti might have brought a different energy to the quirky manager. Instead, Steve Carell took the part, bringing awkward charm and humor that made Michael Scott unforgettable. Giamatti’s near-role provides an intriguing glimpse into the casting process, showcasing how the right actor can elevate a character to iconic status.
15. Rob Lowe as Dr. Derek Shepherd – Grey’s Anatomy
Rob Lowe was offered the role of Dr. Derek Shepherd in Grey’s Anatomy but turned it down for another project. This decision allowed Patrick Dempsey to step in and become the beloved “McDreamy.” Lowe’s potential involvement is a fascinating what-if in TV casting, highlighting how timing and choices can alter the course of television history. Dempsey’s portrayal captured viewers’ hearts, making the character iconic and leaving a lasting legacy.
16. Jennifer Love Hewitt as Robin Scherbatsky – How I Met Your Mother
Jennifer Love Hewitt was the first choice for Robin Scherbatsky in How I Met Your Mother but declined the role. This opened the door for Cobie Smulders, whose portrayal became a breakout moment. Smulders’ performance brought depth and humor to the character, creating a lasting impression on audiences. Hewitt’s missed opportunity adds an intriguing layer to the show’s casting history, illustrating how the right fit can define a character’s success and impact.
17. Craig T. Nelson as Jay Pritchett – Modern Family
Craig T. Nelson turned down the role of Jay Pritchett in Modern Family over money disputes. This decision allowed Ed O’Neill to step in, bringing warmth and humor to the family patriarch. O’Neill’s portrayal added depth and relatability to the character, contributing to the show’s success. Nelson’s near-role is an intriguing chapter in TV history, highlighting how business decisions can influence the creative direction and impact of a show.
18. Lauren Graham as Lorelai Gilmore – Gilmore Girls (Almost Not Cast)
Lauren Graham almost missed out on playing Lorelai Gilmore due to a prior contract, but perfect timing allowed her to step into the role. Her quick wit and charm made Lorelai a beloved character, creating a lasting bond with audiences. This near-miss is a fascinating anecdote in TV history, showcasing how fate and timing play crucial roles in casting. Graham’s portrayal brought warmth and humor to the series, making it a cherished favorite.
19. Jim Parsons as Barney Stinson – How I Met Your Mother
Jim Parsons, known for his role as Sheldon Cooper, auditioned for the womanizing Barney Stinson. His comedic talent could have added a unique twist, but Neil Patrick Harris ultimately claimed the part. Harris’ portrayal became iconic, blending humor with charm and making Barney unforgettable. Parsons’ near-role is an intriguing footnote in TV casting, illustrating how the right actor can define and elevate a character, creating a lasting impact.
20. Michael Keaton as Jack Donaghy – 30 Rock
Michael Keaton was in talks to play Jack Donaghy on 30 Rock before Alec Baldwin was cast. Known for his versatile roles, Keaton could have brought a different dimension to the suave executive. However, Baldwin’s performance redefined his career, adding a charismatic and humorous edge to the character. Keaton’s almost-casting is a curious chapter in TV history, highlighting how differing interpretations can shape a show’s success.
21. Jane Krakowski as Rachel on Friends
Jane Krakowski read for the role of Rachel Green in Friends but lost out to Jennifer Aniston. Known for her comedic flair, Krakowski could have brought a different energy to the character. However, this allowed her to later shine as Jenna Maroney on 30 Rock, showcasing her talent. Krakowski’s near-role is an intriguing what-if in casting history, illustrating how diverse casting choices can lead to unexpected career paths.
22. Russell Crowe as Dr. House – House M.D.
Fox initially considered Russell Crowe for the role of Dr. House, envisioning a more intense portrayal. Known for his dramatic roles, Crowe could have brought a different energy to the character. However, Hugh Laurie’s sardonic brilliance captured audiences, turning House into an iconic character. Crowe’s almost-casting is a captivating what-might-have-been in TV history, demonstrating how the right actor can define a show’s legacy.