Gaby
Over the 35 years since its release, director Garry Marshall’s romantic comedy has become one of the most beloved films across several generations.
At the time of filming, 57-year-old Julia Roberts was just 22, playing the role of the escort Vivian Ward. Meanwhile, 71-year-old Richard Gere was 40, portraying billionaire Edward Lewis.
However, they weren’t the only actors considered for these iconic roles by the director and producers. Other famous names could have stepped into their shoes.
Interestingly, screenwriter Jonathan Loughran initially envisioned the film, originally titled “$3000,” as a social drama about the tragic fate of a love worker. In the original ending, the main character was supposed to push the drug-addicted prostitute Vivian out of his car, tossing her $3,000.
But when the script with its somber conclusion landed at Disney, they decided to turn it into a romantic comedy. The final version of the script was penned not by Loughran, but by director Marshall. Notably, in this new version, Julia Roberts’ character was no longer a drug addict.
Here are a few lesser-known facts about “Pretty Woman,” compiled by the Daily Mail to celebrate the film’s anniversary.
Julia could have been replaced by another actress
Julia Roberts, who was relatively unknown at the time, wasn’t the first choice for the role of Vivian. Drew Barrymore and Winona Ryder were invited to audition, but producers felt they were too young for the part. Meg Ryan, who was already popular, was also offered a role but declined.
Ultimately, the role went to Julia, who became an international star thanks to this film.
Gere wasn’t the initial choice for the lead role either
For the role of Edward, producers considered not only Richard Gere but also Sean Connery, Al Pacino, and Burt Reynolds. It’s known that Al Pacino turned down the role of “Pretty Woman” because he felt he wasn’t right for it after auditioning with Julia.
When Burt Reynolds was asked before his death in 2018 why he didn’t want to take on the role of Edward, he replied, “Because I’m an idiot.”
Interestingly, Gere actually turned down the film twice. Producers believed he was the best fit for their vision of the main character, wanting Lewis to resemble the heroes of Hollywood films from the 1940s. In the end, the film became a landmark in Gere’s career.
Demi Moore declined to play Vivian’s best friend
According to Heat magazine, the 62-year-old award-winning actress once turned down the role of Kit, Vivian’s best friend.
In addition to Demi Moore, the casting team considered Laura Dern, Marisa Tomei, Annabelle Sciorra, Lorraine Bracco, and Mary Steenburgen for the role. Ultimately, Kit was played by Laura San Giacomo.
Roberts insisted she wouldn’t do nude scenes
When Julia Roberts first met with Garry Marshall to discuss the role, she made it clear that she had one important condition: she would not be doing any nude scenes. “I’m not getting naked,” the actress stated.
Gere really played the piano
Richard Gere is not only a talented actor but also a skilled musician. In the hotel bar scene, he performed a piece on the piano that he wrote himself.
He also plays the guitar and trumpet.
The famous snail scene was repeated in “The Princess Diaries”
Everyone remembers the dinner scene in the fancy restaurant where Vivian throws a snail, and the waiter catches it. In reality, the director tossed the snail during filming.
Garry Marshall included this scene in his film “The Princess Diaries” (2001) as well. In both films, the waiter has the same role – to catch the snail.
The main character’s necklace cost a fortune
The luxurious necklace worn by Julia Roberts’ character was valued at $250,000. During filming, a security guard closely monitored the jewelry, standing behind the director.
