Actresses Who Passed on the Iconic Role of ‘Pretty Woman’- A Look Back at the Original Choices

What actresses turned down Pretty Woman? This question has intrigued fans and film enthusiasts alike since the release of the iconic 1990 romantic comedy. The film, directed by Garry Marshall, stars Julia Roberts as the charming and independent prostitute, Vivian Ward, who captures the heart of a wealthy businessman, Edward Lewis (Richard Gere). Despite the film’s massive success and its enduring popularity, there were several actresses who declined the opportunity to play the lead role of Vivian. Let’s delve into the story behind these notable refusals.

The casting process for Pretty Woman was intense, with numerous actresses being considered for the role. Julia Roberts was not the first choice for the role of Vivian. In fact, she was not even among the initial list of candidates. The filmmakers were looking for a fresh face who could bring a sense of realism and authenticity to the character. It was only after a series of auditions and rejections that Julia Roberts was offered the part.

One of the actresses who turned down the role of Vivian was Meryl Streep. The renowned actress was reportedly approached by the filmmakers, but she declined the offer, stating that she was not interested in playing a role that was similar to her previous work. Streep’s decision to pass on the role is particularly notable, considering her immense talent and the fact that she has won numerous Academy Awards throughout her career.

Another actress who turned down the role was Kim Basinger. The talented actress was already a well-known name in Hollywood at the time and had won an Academy Award for her performance in “L.A. Confidential.” However, she was not interested in playing the character of Vivian, which she described as a “sugarcoated hooker.” Basinger’s decision to decline the role is a testament to her dedication to choosing roles that challenge her and push her boundaries as an actress.

Another notable actress who turned down the role was Jodie Foster. The talented actress, who had already won two Academy Awards for her performances in “The Accused” and “The Silence of the Lambs,” was approached for the role of Vivian. However, Foster declined the offer, stating that she was not interested in playing a character that was too far from her own personal experiences. Her decision to pass on the role highlights the importance of finding roles that resonate with an actress on a personal level.

In addition to these notable refusals, there were several other actresses who were considered for the role of Vivian, including Demi Moore, Whoopi Goldberg, and Michelle Pfeiffer. Each actress had their own reasons for declining the role, but ultimately, it was Julia Roberts who stepped into the role and delivered a performance that would go on to become one of the most memorable in film history.

In conclusion, the question of what actresses turned down Pretty Woman is a fascinating one, as it reveals the thought process and priorities of some of Hollywood’s most talented actresses. While Julia Roberts ultimately delivered a career-defining performance, it is clear that the role of Vivian was not without its share of intrigue and controversy. The fact that several renowned actresses declined the role only adds to the film’s mystique and enduring appeal.