George Clooney on the Role That Still Haunts Him
George Clooney reflects on a missed opportunity that Brad Pitt still jokes about, and shares fresh details about the next Ocean’s film.
George Clooney has spoken candidly about a particular part he failed to secure—one that continues to be a source of gentle ribbing from Brad Pitt. While Clooney’s latest project, Jay Kelly, directed by Noah Baumbach, sees him portraying a celebrated film star embarking on a European journey with his manager (played by Adam Sandler), he admits his career has not always been so charmed.
In a recent interview, Clooney recalled a setback that lingers in his memory: narrowly missing out on the role of JD in the cult classic Thelma and Louise.
“I got to the final test for a role in Thelma and Louise. And, motherfucker, Brad got it.”
Clooney confessed that the disappointment stayed with him for quite some time.
“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!”
Brad Pitt’s Ongoing Teasing
When asked if Pitt is aware of Clooney’s lingering frustration, Clooney confirmed that his friend is well aware—and doesn’t let him forget it.
“Oh yeah, he gives me shit. But, of course, when I saw it, I was, like, well, it had to be that guy.”
The film’s memorable scene, in which Pitt’s character removes his shirt, has become something of a running joke. Adam Sandler, Clooney’s co-star in Jay Kelly, reminisced about the moment:
“I saw that at the cinema and when Brad took his shirt off people went nuts. But it should have been you, Clooney.”
Looking Ahead: Ocean’s 14
Despite the missed opportunity, Clooney and Pitt have since enjoyed a fruitful working relationship, most notably in the Ocean’s franchise. Clooney recently revealed that the much-anticipated Ocean’s 14 is officially moving forward. Production is set to begin next year, with the budget now approved. Clooney shared the update at the New York Film Festival, saying,
“We just got the budget approved at Warner Brothers, and we’re trying to set up. It’s just scheduling, so it’s just setting a start date for us.”
Fans of the series can look forward to seeing the pair reunite on screen, proving that even in Hollywood, old rivalries can give way to enduring partnerships.