George Clooney Opens Up About Losing Iconic Role to Brad Pitt

George Clooney, who’s now a household name and an Oscar winner, has looked back on a time when he missed out on a role that could have changed his career trajectory. Before he became a familiar face on screens across the globe, Clooney was eyeing a part that ended up going to Brad Pitt. The film in question? Ridley Scott’s classic crime drama, Thelma & Louise. Clooney has admitted he was more than a little annoyed when he didn’t land the gig, which would have put him in the spotlight years before his big break finally arrived.

Missing Out on a Breakthrough

Back in the early ’90s, Clooney was still hustling for roles, keen to make his mark in the industry. Thelma & Louise, starring Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis, was shaping up to be a major release. The story follows two women whose lives spiral after a road trip takes a wild turn, leading them to flee from the law. Clooney auditioned for the part of the charming drifter, a role that would ultimately launch Brad Pitt’s career and make him a star almost overnight.

Reflecting on the experience, Clooney didn’t hold back about his disappointment.

I was really pissed off when I didn’t get that part. I reckon it would’ve changed everything for me back then.

It’s not hard to see why—Pitt’s performance became one of the film’s most memorable elements, and the role is now considered iconic.

Brad Pitt’s Big Moment

For Pitt, landing the role in Thelma & Louise was a turning point. His portrayal of the smooth-talking hitchhiker caught the attention of both critics and punters, setting him up for a string of leading roles in the years that followed. Clooney, meanwhile, had to wait a bit longer for his own breakout, eventually finding fame with ER and a string of successful films.

Despite missing out, Clooney and Pitt would go on to work together and become mates in the industry. Their friendly rivalry and mutual respect have been well-documented, with both actors often taking the mickey out of each other in interviews and promos.

Sliding Doors in Hollywood

The story of Clooney losing out to Pitt is a classic example of how unpredictable the film business can be. One missed opportunity can lead to another door opening down the track. Clooney’s career didn’t suffer in the long run, but he’s never shied away from admitting that losing the role stung at the time.

For Aussie film fans, it’s a reminder that even the biggest stars have faced setbacks and disappointments. Sometimes, the roles that get away end up shaping a career just as much as the ones that land.