George Clooney recently shared how missing out on the J.D. character in Ridley Scott’s Thelma & Louise remains a significant memory from his early days in the industry. The George Clooney Thelma Louise role ultimately went to Brad Pitt, marking a turning point for both actors on their journeys in Hollywood.
Clooney’s Final Audition and Brad Pitt’s Breakthrough
George Clooney, reflecting on his career setbacks, revealed to The Sunday Times that he advanced to the final round of auditions for Thelma & Louise, only for the part of the charming drifter J.D. to be awarded to Brad Pitt. The character interacts briefly yet memorably with Geena Davis’s Thelma, and Pitt’s performance soon propelled him toward leading roles. Despite the loss, Clooney confessed that the frustration of missing this pivotal part ran so deep, he deliberately avoided watching the film for many years to come.
Light-Hearted Rivalry and Acceptance
Clooney noted that Brad Pitt continues to remind him of the audition outcome, injecting some playful rivalry into their friendship.
“Oh, he still gives me shit,”
– George Clooney, Actor
When Clooney eventually watched the movie, he recognized why Pitt’s casting resonated so strongly with audiences and critics alike.
“It had to be that guy.”
– George Clooney, Actor
Progression to Stardom and Notable Roles
At that period, George Clooney was still searching for his defining opportunity, unlike Brad Pitt whose rapid ascent followed with titles such as Se7en, 12 Monkeys, Interview with the Vampire, and A River Runs Through It. Clooney’s major breakthrough materialized with his portrayal of Doug Ross in the television series ER from 1994 to 1999, firmly establishing him as a prominent household figure.
Career Recognition Beyond Early Disappointment
Building on his momentum from ER, Clooney secured leading parts, including portraying Batman in Joel Schumacher’s Batman & Robin and starring opposite Jennifer Lopez in Steven Soderbergh’s Out of Sight. The latter project, in particular, is widely regarded as solidifying his reputation as a versatile leading man. Despite the early setback with Thelma & Louise, George Clooney’s subsequent achievements include two Academy Awards, four Golden Globes, a BAFTA, as well as numerous Emmy and Tony nominations.
His extensive body of work has earned him further recognition through honors such as the Cecil B. DeMille Award in 2015, the Honourary César in 2017, the AFI Life Achievement Award the following year, and the Kennedy Center Honour in 2022. Looking back, while the missed George Clooney Thelma Louise role still stings, his lasting impact on Hollywood is undeniable, underscored by accolades and memorable performances across film and television.
