Steve Buscemi secured the role of Mr. Pink in Reservoir Dogs after Quentin Tarantino was impressed by an unexpected audition. Though Tarantino was originally interested in playing the part himself, he was ready to step aside if someone delivered a standout performance.
Surprisingly, it wasn’t Buscemi’s auditions for Reservoir Dogs that won Tarantino over, but rather a tryout for a different film that convinced him to cast Buscemi as Mr. Pink. The actor discussed this story during a recent episode of the SmartLess podcast, revealing that he auditioned twice for Reservoir Dogs before receiving the role.
The Unusual Casting Moment Between Actor and Director
In a casual moment, Tarantino informed Buscemi of his casting while they were both using the restroom, a typical example of the director’s informal style. Buscemi recalled Tarantino saying,
He says, ‘Yeah and it wasn’t really based on your audition, you know,’
He said, ‘But [casting director] Ronnie Yeskel showed me a tape of when you auditioned for that Neil Simon movie.’
—Steve Buscemi, Actor
This revelation surprised Buscemi because the film he auditioned for was a comedy, which he ultimately did not get. Curious about what caught Tarantino’s eye in that performance, Buscemi learned the director was influenced by his appearance in the audition, including a vintage shirt and slicked-back hair that made him look like a criminal.
Buscemi reflected on his look, saying,
That was just how I dressed,
That was just me. And so, thank God I went on that audition.
—Steve Buscemi, Actor
Continuing Collaboration Between Buscemi and Tarantino
Reservoir Dogs was not the only project that brought Buscemi and Tarantino together. Buscemi also had a small role in Pulp Fiction, further solidifying their working relationship. This casting story highlights an unconventional path to a breakout role and reinforces how unexpected factors can influence filmmaking decisions.
Steve Buscemi Reservoir Dogs casting remains a notable example of how persistence and unique personal style can impact an actor’s career trajectory in the film industry.
