The Role That Got Away: George Clooney Recalls Brad Pitt's Playful Teasing Over 'Thelma & Louise'

It's always fun when Hollywood's biggest stars pull back the curtain on their early career struggles, especially when it involves another megastar. George Clooney, a man who truly needs no introduction, recently did just that, offering a delightful peek into a memorable audition that didn't quite go his way – and the lasting, playful fallout with his pal, Brad Pitt.

During a candid chat with GQ, where he was deservedly honored as an "Icon of the Year," Clooney reminisced about a role that, in hindsight, truly launched a fellow acting titan's career: the charming drifter, J.D., in the seminal 1991 film, 'Thelma & Louise.' You see, before Brad Pitt captivated audiences in that now-iconic small but impactful part, Clooney was right there in the running, giving it his all.

Clooney painted a vivid picture of his determination, recalling multiple auditions, a genuine eagerness for the part. "I had driven 1,000 miles to get there," he quipped, underlining just how much he wanted it. He went in, read for the part, felt good about it, and genuinely believed it was his. He thought he'd "crushed it," as he put it. Oh, the sweet, fleeting hope of an actor!

But as fate, and Hollywood casting directors, would have it, the role ultimately went to a fresh-faced Brad Pitt. And, well, the rest is history, isn't it? Pitt's brief yet unforgettable turn opposite Geena Davis in 'Thelma & Louise' was a genuine star-making moment, catapulting him into the stratosphere of leading men. It’s hard to imagine anyone else in that cowboy hat, really.

Fast forward a few decades, and Clooney and Pitt are not just industry peers but genuinely close friends, sharing the screen in blockbusters like the 'Ocean's' franchise. So, naturally, the story of the role that got away has become a running joke between them. Clooney good-naturedly revealed that Pitt, to this day, still loves to rib him about it. Imagine the banter over a casual dinner! It just goes to show that even for two of the world's most successful actors, some things never change.

With a laugh, Clooney humbly conceded that Pitt was "great" in the role. No sour grapes there, just a recognition of talent and a bit of playful regret for what might have been. It’s a classic Hollywood tale, really: the near-miss, the unexpected twist, and the enduring friendship that proves there are no hard feelings, just plenty of material for a good chuckle among friends.