Actors Who Requested Script Changes
Introduction
In the realm of acting, scripts are often seen as a guideline rather than an absolute. Many actors have made bold choices in their performances, with some going so far as to request significant alterations to the storylines of their respective projects. Below is a compilation of 29 actors who advocated for major changes to their characters and scripts.
Notable Requests for Script Changes
1. Jon Bernthal in Daredevil: Born Again
When Jon Bernthal returned as the Punisher, he utilized his improvisational skills to enhance his character. Lead actor Charlie Cox recounted, “Jon called me the night before a scene, saying some lines didn’t resonate with him. He wanted to adjust them, and he essentially wrote his own lines.”
2. Maya Hawke in Stranger Things
Maya Hawke felt that her character, Robin, should not end up with Steve, but instead be portrayed as gay. In discussions with the Duffer Brothers, she stated, “It became clear during filming that this was the right direction for Robin, and I’m thrilled with the outcome.”
3. Dacre Montgomery in Stranger Things
Dacre Montgomery pushed for deeper character development for Billy, particularly regarding his family background. He emphasized the importance of exploring Billy’s relationship with his biological mother, which he felt added depth to the character.
4. Jenna Ortega in Wednesday
While working on Wednesday, Jenna Ortega made changes to lines that she felt didn’t align with her character’s personality. She recalled a line about a dress that seemed out of character and opted for adjustments that made her portrayal more authentic.
5. Jim and Pam in The Office
In a potential storyline for Season 8, series creator Greg Daniels considered having Jim cheat on Pam. John Krasinski advocated against this, arguing that it would alienate the audience. He successfully pushed for a storyline that maintained Jim and Pam’s integrity.
6. Tommy Lee Jones in Men in Black
Tommy Lee Jones condensed a lengthy speech down to a single glance, much to the surprise of screenwriter Ed Solomon. The director praised Jones’s ability to convey emotion without extensive dialogue.
7. Naya Rivera in Glee
Naya Rivera advocated for a serious relationship between her character, Santana, and Brittany to foster greater queer representation. She believed that the relationship should not be treated lightly, as it mirrored real-life experiences for many viewers.
8. Anna Kendrick in Pitch Perfect 3
Anna Kendrick refused to engage in a romantic storyline with a music executive, deeming it problematic. She expressed her concerns about the implications of such a relationship and stood her ground despite pressure to conform.
9. Emma Watson in Beauty and the Beast
Emma Watson sought a more feminist approach to Belle’s wardrobe, opting for practical clothing that allowed her character to be more active. Costume designer Jacqueline Durran noted Watson’s desire for Belle to be portrayed as a strong heroine.
10. Lachlan Watson in Chilling Adventures of Sabrina
Lachlan Watson requested a slower depiction of their character’s transition. They emphasized the importance of showcasing a strong, queer character who doesn’t require saving, thus influencing the character’s development.
11. Alan Rickman in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves
Alan Rickman found the original script lacking and sought help from friends to rewrite his character’s lines. He incorporated humor that resonated with the crew, enhancing the character’s appeal.
12. Chris Hemsworth in Thor: Ragnarok
Following the lukewarm reception of Thor: The Dark World, Chris Hemsworth urged Marvel Studios to inject more humor and unpredictability into the sequel, emphasizing the need for a tonal shift.
13. Tessa Thompson in Thor: Ragnarok
Tessa Thompson proposed that Valkyrie be portrayed as bisexual, aligning with her character in the comics. Although some scenes were cut, she worked to ensure Valkyrie’s characterization included this aspect.
14. Bryce Dallas Howard in Jurassic World
Bryce Dallas Howard insisted on keeping her character’s heels on as a metaphor for strength. She articulated that the heels represented her character’s resilience and empowerment.
15. Sara Ramírez in Grey’s Anatomy
Sara Ramírez communicated with creator Shonda Rhimes about portraying Callie’s bisexuality, which became a significant aspect of the character’s arc. The representation had a lasting cultural impact, as noted by head writer Krista Vernoff.
16. Leonard Nimoy in Star Trek
Leonard Nimoy introduced the Vulcan nerve pinch as a nonviolent alternative for Spock. He believed it added depth to the character and aligned with the show’s themes of exploring alien perspectives.
17. Tom Cruise in The Mummy
Tom Cruise exercised creative control over The Mummy, bringing in additional writers to reshape the script. He aimed to enhance his character’s screen time and develop a more engaging storyline.
18. Asia Kate Dillon in John Wick: Chapter 3 — Parabellum
Asia Kate Dillon advocated for their character, the Adjudicator, to be nonbinary. They highlighted the importance of gender diversity in the John Wick universe, which was well-received by the creators.
19. Mike Myers in Shrek
Mike Myers initially recorded his lines with a Canadian accent but later opted for a Scottish accent to make Shrek more relatable and vulnerable, contrasting with other characters.
20. Crispin Glover in Charlie’s Angels
Crispin Glover rejected the dialogue for his character, suggesting instead that he remain silent. He believed this approach would enhance the character’s mystery and depth.
21. Reese Witherspoon in Cruel Intentions
Reese Witherspoon collaborated with writer/director Roger Kumble to rewrite her character’s dialogue, seeking to portray a more empowered female character and challenge traditional portrayals of women in film.
22. Samuel L. Jackson in Star Wars: Attack of the Clones
Samuel L. Jackson requested a distinctive purple lightsaber for his character, Mace Windu, to stand out during battles. Initially met with resistance, Lucas eventually agreed to the change.
23. Meryl Streep in Kramer vs. Kramer
Meryl Streep insisted on rewriting her character’s dialogue to create a more sympathetic portrayal. She collaborated closely with the director to ensure her character was well-developed and realistic.
24. Jason Isaacs in Harry Potter
Jason Isaacs influenced the character design of Lucius Malfoy, advocating for long hair and a distinctive wardrobe that reflected the character’s aristocratic nature.
25. Benicio del Toro in The Usual Suspects
Benicio del Toro lobbied for creative freedom with his character, Fred Fenster, suggesting the use of a unique accent to enhance his portrayal, which the director ultimately approved.
26. Michelle Rodriguez in The Fast and the Furious
Michelle Rodriguez objected to a storyline that had her character cheat on Dominic Toretto, arguing it was unrealistic. With support from Vin Diesel, she successfully advocated for a more authentic portrayal.
27. Jack Nicholson in The Departed
Jack Nicholson initially declined the role of Frank Costello, but after discussions with DiCaprio and Scorsese, he agreed to develop the character collaboratively, resulting in a rich portrayal.
28. Jesse Leigh in Rutherford Falls
Jesse Leigh took initiative in shaping their character, Bobbie, advocating for a nonbinary representation that reflected their own experiences and identity.
29. Marlon Brando in Apocalypse Now
Marlon Brando significantly altered the portrayal of Colonel Walter Kurtz by improvising much of his dialogue. Director Francis Ford Coppola adapted the film around Brando’s creative choices.
Conclusion
These examples illustrate the impact actors can have on their characters and the narratives in which they are involved. By advocating for changes, these performers not only enhance their own roles but also contribute to broader discussions about representation and storytelling in film and television.
