George Clooney candidly admits his long-standing “annoyance” at Brad Pitt for securing the breakout role in Thelma & Louise, a playful rivalry that still fuels their decades-long friendship and frequent collaborations. This enduring banter between two of Hollywood’s biggest stars offers a fascinating glimpse into the competitive nature of the industry and the lasting bonds it can forge.
The competitive landscape of Hollywood means that for every star-making role, there’s often another actor who just missed out. For George Clooney, that pivotal role was J.D. in the iconic 1991 film Thelma & Louise, a part that ultimately went to his future friend and frequent co-star, Brad Pitt. Clooney recently opened up about his initial frustration and how Pitt still playfully teases him about the casting decision.
During a conversation with U.K. outlet The Times, Clooney reflected on the audition process for the character of J.D., the charming drifter who captivated Geena Davis’s Thelma. “I got to the final test for a role in Thelma & Louise,” Clooney recalled, adding, “And, motherf—er, Brad got it.”
The Role That Changed Everything
J.D. became an instant sensation, marking a significant turning point in Brad Pitt’s career. His brief but memorable shirtless scene cemented him as a rising star and a Hollywood heartthrob. Before Thelma & Louise, Pitt was primarily known for supporting roles, but this film propelled him into leading man status, leading to collaborations with major filmmakers shortly thereafter.
In contrast, George Clooney continued to work predominantly in television during the early 90s, with appearances on sitcoms like Baby Talk and dramas such as Bodies of Evidence. The missed opportunity clearly stung, leading to a long-held resentment, albeit a good-natured one.
“I didn’t watch Thelma & Louise for years,” Clooney confessed. “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? F—!!”
A Teasing Friendship Born from Rivalry
Despite the initial sting, Clooney admits that Pitt’s casting was ultimately the right choice. “Of course, when I saw it, I was, like, well, it had to be that guy,” he acknowledged. This doesn’t stop Pitt from relishing his victory. “Oh yeah, he gives me s—,” Clooney confirmed, highlighting the playful nature of their long-standing bond.
The memory of the iconic scene resonated deeply with audiences, as Adam Sandler, Clooney’s co-star in the upcoming film Jay Kelly, also recalled. “I saw that at the cinema and when Brad took his shirt off people went nuts,” Sandler shared, before jokingly adding, “But it should have been you, Clooney.”
Even Thelma & Louise star Geena Davis remembers Clooney’s feelings on the matter. During a 2016 ABC News interview, Davis recounted a chance encounter. “I was on a plane next to George Clooney by happenstance. We’re chatting, and he says, ‘You know, I hate that Brad Pitt,'” Davis revealed, a sentiment she initially dismissed until Clooney clarified his lasting professional regret. Her recollection was also detailed in People magazine.
From Competitors to Collaborators
What started as a competitive audition has blossomed into one of Hollywood’s most enduring and successful professional friendships. George Clooney and Brad Pitt have graced the screen together in a multitude of projects, showcasing their undeniable chemistry and star power.
Their joint filmography includes:
- The popular Ocean’s Eleven trilogy (Ocean’s Eleven, Ocean’s Twelve, and Ocean’s Thirteen)
- The Coen brothers’ critically acclaimed dark comedy, Burn After Reading
- Clooney’s directorial debut, Confessions of a Dangerous Mind, where Pitt made a cameo
- The recent caper film, Wolfs, further solidifying their on-screen partnership
The camaraderie between the two actors extends beyond their past projects. Clooney recently hinted at an upcoming Ocean’s Fourteen, expressing his hopes for Pitt, along with other original cast members like Matt Damon, Julia Roberts, and Don Cheadle, to rejoin the ensemble. “They’re all still really dear friends, so the chance to work together would be fun,” Clooney shared with E! News in October, underscoring the deep personal connections that drive their professional choices.
The story of George Clooney’s “annoyance” and Brad Pitt’s playful jabs serves as a charming footnote in the careers of two Hollywood legends, illustrating how a moment of professional rivalry can evolve into a cherished, decades-long friendship that continues to entertain fans worldwide.
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