Josh Peck almost went from saying, “I ain’t calling you a truther,” to, “Hold on tight, spider monkey.” As it turns out, the Drake & Josh alum auditioned to play the iconic role of Edward Cullen in the Twilight franchise in the mid-2000s. Although the role ultimately went to Robert Pattinson, Josh came close to portraying the legendary vampire.
“I remember it’s like 2006? 7?” Josh recalled to guest Taylor Lautner during the Oct. 23 episode of his podcast Great Guys. “They’re like, ‘Audition for this movie, Twilight, it’s based on a book it’s going to be great.’ So I send in my tape, for Edward. A month later, I’m with my manager, he goes, ‘It’s down to you and three guys, you’re close.'”
The Nickelodeon alum continued with a laugh, “I’m like, ‘Really?’ I hadn’t even had a tummy tuck yet, I’m like, ‘There’s no way. He’s got to be so shirtless, it’s not going to happen.’ Spoiler alert—didn’t get it.”
To this day, Josh is still in disbelief at how close he came to scoring the role. As he noted, “But I remember then seeing R-Patz playing this part I’m like, ‘In what f–king world were they like, okay here’s what we’re thinking, Chris Hemsworth or Stanley Tucci?’ Like what the f–k? Impossible!”
Upon hearing this, Taylor Lautner, who played Jacob Black in the Twilight series, expressed his surprise, saying, “Did I know this? That’s amazing.”
Peck’s candid reflection on the near-miss provides a fascinating glimpse into the casting process for one of the most iconic film franchises of the 2000s. His anecdote adds a layer of what-if scenarios that fans of both Drake & Josh and Twilight will find intriguing. It’s not uncommon for actors to come close to major roles, only to see them go to someone else, but Peck’s story stands out because of the dramatic contrast between his persona and that of Edward Cullen.
A Hollywood Close Call
The journey from Nickelodeon star to a potential heartthrob vampire in a global phenomenon is a testament to the unpredictable nature of Hollywood casting. Peck’s career trajectory might have taken a vastly different path had he donned Edward Cullen’s pale, brooding demeanor. The role required a level of intensity and romantic allure that Pattinson ultimately brought to life, defining a generation’s image of the vampire.
Peck’s humor about the situation, particularly his self-deprecating comment on not having had a tummy tuck, showcases his ability to reflect on past opportunities with a light-hearted perspective. It also underscores the physical demands and expectations placed on actors for certain roles, especially those involving high-profile franchises.
The Twilight Phenomenon
When Twilight was released in 2008, it quickly became a cultural touchstone. The series, based on Stephenie Meyer’s novels, captivated audiences with its blend of romance, fantasy, and supernatural elements. Robert Pattinson’s portrayal of Edward Cullen became iconic, and it’s hard to imagine anyone else in the role now. However, Peck’s near-casting adds a layer of depth to the story of how the series was brought to life.
Taylor Lautner’s surprise at learning about Peck’s audition adds another interesting dimension. Lautner himself was part of a casting process that saw him transform physically to continue playing Jacob Black, a role that required significant muscle gain and a shift from his previous child star image. His journey mirrors the intense physical and professional transformations actors often undergo to secure and retain pivotal roles in major film franchises.
What Might Have Been
Imagining Peck as Edward Cullen is an exercise in alternate history for Hollywood. While it’s speculative to consider how his career might have evolved, it’s clear that both Peck and Pattinson have found their own paths to success. Peck has continued to work in both comedic and dramatic roles, and his presence on social media and various media platforms keeps him connected to his fanbase.
Pattinson, on the other hand, used his Twilight fame as a springboard to diverse roles, challenging himself with indie films and eventually returning to the blockbuster sphere with The Batman. The contrast in their post-Twilight careers highlights the different avenues available to actors who either come close to or secure major roles.
The Impact of Casting Decisions
Casting decisions have a significant impact on both the projects and the actors involved. Peck’s story is a reminder of the many factors that go into casting, including physical appearance, screen presence, and the ability to embody a character in a way that resonates with audiences. It also underscores the resilience required in the acting profession, as actors navigate auditions, rejections, and near-misses.
For fans, these behind-the-scenes stories add depth to their understanding of beloved films and characters. They humanize the actors and offer a peek into the complexities of filmmaking. Peck’s humor and openness about his Twilight audition provide a refreshing look at the highs and lows of Hollywood.
In the end, while Peck didn’t get to play Edward Cullen, his journey continues to be one of growth, humor, and unexpected twists. His reflection on the audition process and his candidness about his career offer valuable insights into the world of acting, reminding us all that sometimes, the roles we don’t get shape us just as much as the ones we do.
