Brad Pitt Still Mocks Clooney for This Famous Movie Role
Even Hollywood legends have roles that got away. George Clooney recently shared a story about a career-defining part he lost to a now-famous friend, a friendly rivalry that continues to this day. He also dropped some major news about a beloved franchise's return.
Even after decades of stardom, some missed opportunities still sting. George Clooney recently revealed a story about a part he desperately wanted but didn't get—a part that went to his good friend, Brad Pitt. While promoting his new Noah Baumbach film, *Jay Kelly*, Clooney reflected on his early days. In the movie, he portrays a well-known actor on a journey of self-discovery with his manager, played by Adam Sandler, a role that seems to mirror the ups and downs of a real Hollywood career.
The Role That Got Away
Speaking with The Times, the celebrated actor recalled a professional setback that has stuck with him for years: losing out on the part of J.D. in the iconic film *Thelma and Louise*. It was a role that ultimately launched Pitt into superstardom. Clooney recounted the final audition with a laugh, saying, “I got to the final test for a role in Thelma and Louise. And, motherfucker, Brad got it.”
The rejection hit him hard, and Clooney held onto the bitterness for a long time. He confessed, “I didn’t watch Thelma and Louise for years because I was annoyed. The part launched his career in film. He was doing sitcoms and crap before, so when it was the thing that could’ve launched me? Fuck!”
A Long-Running Joke
The story isn't a secret between the two friends. When asked if Pitt was aware of his initial resentment, Clooney confirmed it's now a source of amusement. “Oh yeah, he gives me shit,” he revealed. Despite the early frustration, Clooney now sees that the casting was perfect. “But, of course, when I saw it, I was, like, well, it had to be that guy.”
The iconic shirtless scene in the movie became a topic of conversation with his *Jay Kelly* co-star. Adam Sandler chimed in, remembering the audience's reaction. “I saw that at the cinema and when Brad took his shirt off people went nuts,” Sandler recalled. “But it should have been you, Clooney.”
Reuniting for Another Heist
Fans of the A-list duo will be happy to hear they are teaming up again soon. Clooney dropped some exciting news at the New York Film Festival about the future of the *Ocean's* franchise. Production on *Ocean's 14* is set to begin next year. “We just got the budget approved at Warner Brothers, and we’re trying to set up,” Clooney shared. “It’s just scheduling, so its just setting a start date for us.”