Rachel Zegler auditioned Joan Baez for the Bob Dylan biopic, “A Complete Unknown,” as revealed during a recent podcast conversation. The casting process for this film saw numerous contenders, but ultimately, Monica Barbaro secured the part, adding another layer to the ongoing conversation about how casting shapes the impact of a movie.
Casting Directors Shape the Outcome of a Movie
The art of casting is often underestimated, yet it plays a pivotal role in determining a film’s success or failure. Casting directors such as Victoria Burrows, known for “The Lord of the Rings,” and Sarah Finn, who managed the extensive cast for the Marvel Cinematic Universe, demonstrate the significance of these decisions. Recognition of their contributions is growing, as the BAFTAs currently honor their achievements and the Academy Awards plan to begin doing so from 2026. For “A Complete Unknown,” Yesi Ramirez was nominated for the 2025 BAFTA Award for Best Casting, a nod to the film’s successful ensemble, which also earned Oscar nominations for Timothée Chalamet, Edward Norton, and Monica Barbaro. Such recognition points to Ramirez’s influence over the film’s outcome, particularly when imagining how different choices might have shifted the dynamic on screen.
Rachel Zegler’s Pursuit of the Joan Baez Role
Rachel Zegler shared on the Blank Check podcast that she had auditioned for the role of Joan Baez, who is portrayed as a vital collaborator and romantic interest to Bob Dylan in “A Complete Unknown.” The casting process unfolded under unusual circumstances. According to Yesi Ramirez, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, standard in-person auditions gave way to remote tapings:
“when we were sent home with Covid, it just became self-tapes. Eventually, Zoom became a thing, but it was mostly self-tapes.”
Yesi Ramirez, Casting Director
This format limited the personal interaction that typically helps directors guide actors during auditions. Ramirez noted,
“It would’ve been easier in the room, giving notes to adjust.”
Yesi Ramirez, Casting Director
Had Zegler been able to audition in person, the outcome might have been different, potentially changing the casting of Joan Baez and offering the audience a unique interpretation through Zegler’s performance.
Rachel Zegler’s Connection to Dylan and Baez
Zegler, already renowned for her starring roles in “West Side Story” and
“The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes,”
has expressed admiration for both Bob Dylan and Joan Baez long before the biopic. She shared during a virtual press event, as reported by the San Francisco Chronicle, that Baez’s music inspired her own approach to acting. Zegler specifically referenced
“Don’t Think Twice, It’s All Right,”
which influenced her portrayal of Lucy Gray. Zegler explained how the song’s sentiment,
“You just ruined my life, but it’s OK”
helped her channel the emotional state of her character. This artistic kinship with Baez appears not only in Zegler’s performance style but also in personal touches; she has named her guitar “Joan” as a tribute to Baez, an anecdote revealed during a Buzzfeed interview. Through these connections, Zegler brought elements of Baez’s spirit into her past performances and would likely have infused the same energy had she been cast in “A Complete Unknown.”
Monica Barbaro Ultimately Cast as Joan Baez
Though audiences will never see Zegler’s rendition of Baez, Monica Barbaro’s performance has been widely celebrated, capturing the complexity and charisma of Baez in a manner that has garnered critical acclaim. Barbaro offered a nuanced balance—matching Timothée Chalamet’s portrayal of Dylan with both intensity and subtlety. Her work impressed both peers and critics, earning her an Oscar nomination for her role in the film. During the Blank Check podcast, Zegler expressed her genuine admiration by stating, “Monica was amazing.” This gracious acknowledgment reflects her support for Barbaro’s casting and success.
While it can be tempting to wonder how the film might have shifted with Zegler as Baez, such speculation holds little downside for those involved. Zegler’s career trajectory continues upward, bolstered by prominent roles in major films, while Barbaro further establishes herself in the industry. Enthusiastic fans might imagine how an eleven-year age difference, closer to Baez’s actual age during the events depicted, could have shifted the chemistry between the characters. But as it stands, Barbaro’s performance firmly anchors the film’s reimagining of these iconic musical figures.
Supporting Cast of “A Complete Unknown”
The film’s ensemble is led by Timothée Chalamet as Bob Dylan, bringing depth and magnetism to the famous songwriter. Edward Norton portrays Pete Seeger, adding gravitas to the supporting cast. Together with Monica Barbaro, their performances create a cohesive dynamic that brings the era and its music to life.
Looking Forward After the Casting Decisions
As audiences continue to stream “A Complete Unknown” on Hulu in the United States, conversations about casting choices remain a fascinating aspect of the viewing experience. Yesi Ramirez’s recognition from awards bodies highlights the vital role casting directors play, and Rachel Zegler’s audition for Joan Baez adds an intriguing “what if” to the story behind the film. With both Zegler and Barbaro pursuing impressive careers, the industry and fans alike may continue to watch for future roles that allow Zegler to channel the spirit of her musical inspirations.
