Iconic Eighties Role Almost Went to Robert De Niro Instead of Tom Hanks

Robert De Niro was initially chosen to play the role of Josh in the 1988 film Big, according to Elizabeth Perkins, who portrayed Josh's love interest in the movie.

Perkins revealed this information during an appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen.

However, De Niro had to drop out due to a scheduling conflict, and the role ultimately went to Tom Hanks, resulting in a completely different movie experience.

Matthew Modine also disclosed that he was considered for the role after both De Niro and Harrison Ford declined it.

Modine expressed his regret over not accepting the part, stating that when he received the script, it had a much darker tone.

Offering the role to actors who were nearly 20 years older than him didn't make sense, as Modine believed that casting him would compromise the irony the film needed.

During her interview, Perkins shared that she had auditioned for her role in Big alongside De Niro.

She described De Niro's portrayal as more moody and likened it to a horror movie, with De Niro wandering the streets of New York.

In contrast, Tom Hanks brought a lighter touch to the character, which ultimately shaped the film's tone.

In addition to discussing Big, Perkins admitted to feeling some remorse about not taking on the role of Kevin's mother in Home Alone.

She expressed that she loves the film and sometimes wishes she had accepted the part, as her husband worked as the director of photography on the movie.

However, Perkins praised Catherine O'Hara, who eventually played the role, describing her as the queen and acknowledging her exceptional talent.

The revelation that Robert De Niro was initially cast as the lead in Big adds an intriguing twist to the film's history.

It demonstrates how casting decisions can have a significant impact on the final product, as the switch from De Niro to Hanks resulted in a lighter and more comedic tone.

It also highlights the uncertainty and unpredictability of the filmmaking process, with multiple actors being considered for iconic roles.

Perkins' and Modine's insights provide a fascinating glimpse into the behind-the-scenes workings of Hollywood and the decision-making involved in bringing a film to life.