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Close Casting Calls for Stars

TV roles that almost changed the course of their careers

By Michael Foreman,  Newser User

Posted Aug 18, 2008 2:51 PM CDT

(Newser) – Some of today's brightest stars nearly landed iconic TV roles, but didn't for better or worse. Author Eila Mell reveals a few near-misses to the New York Post:  

  • Harrison Ford turned down the part of "Meathead" in All in the Family.
  • Mickey Rooney also passed on bigot Archie Bunker.
  • Rosie O'Donnell was almost cast on Seinfeld as neighbor Elaine.

  • Whitney Houston might have been Denise Huxtable on The Cosby Show.
  • Rachel Dratch played Jenna Maroney in the 30 Rock pilot, but was later replaced.
  • Jenna Fischer auditioned for Alias before becoming Pam on The Office.
  • Leonardo DiCaprio could have made waves as David Hasselhoff's Baywatch son.
  • Nancy McKeon from The Facts of Life wanted Courteney Cox's role on Friends.

Jenna Fischer lost a spot on Alias, but went on to become sweetheart Pam on The Office.
Jenna Fischer lost a spot on "Alias," but went on to become sweetheart Pam on "The Office."   (AP Photo/Matt Sayles)
Harrison Ford turned down the role of Meathead on All in in the Family.
Harrison Ford turned down the role of Meathead on "All in in the Family."   (AP Photo)
Leonardo DiCaprio might have made a splash long before Titanic as David Hasselhoff's Baywatch son.
Leonardo DiCaprio might have made a splash long before "Titanic" as David Hasselhoff's "Baywatch" son.   (AP Photo, file)
Mickey Rooney turned down Archie Bunker's role because the character was a bigot.
Mickey Rooney turned down Archie Bunker's role because the character was a bigot.   (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)
Rosie O'Donnell was almost Elaine on Seinfeld.
Rosie O'Donnell was almost Elaine on "Seinfeld."   (Getty Images)
Whitney Houston passed on The Cosby Show to pursue a singing career.
Whitney Houston passed on "The Cosby Show" to pursue a singing career.   (AP Photo)
Rachel Dratch played Jenna Maroney in the 30 Rock pilot, but was later replaced.
Rachel Dratch played Jenna Maroney in the "30 Rock" pilot, but was later replaced.   (AP Photo)
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