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Imagine a world where “Men in Black” catapulted “Friends” actor David Schwimmer to stardom instead of the Academy Award-winning Will Smith. This could have been a reality as Schwimmer was once considered for the leading role in the first “Men in Black” film. Schwimmer recently appeared on the podcast “Origins With Cush Jumbo” and revealed why he chose a different project over the successful sci-fi action-comedy.
Schwimmer confessed to Jumbo that turning down the role of Agent J was a tough choice. He explained that his decision was influenced by more than just his busy “Friends” filming schedule. After wrapping up his first film, ‘The Pallbearer,’ with Gwyneth Paltrow, Schwimmer was offered a three-picture deal with Miramax. However, he agreed to the deal on one condition – he would get to direct his first movie.
After months of negotiation, Miramax agreed to Schwimmer’s terms. He would star in three more films for the company and direct a movie featuring his entire theater company. The actor had previously discussed this arrangement with THR (via Den of Geek) in 2016, stating his goal was to give everyone a chance. The film in question, “Since You’ve Been Gone,” a class reunion comedy, starred Schwimmer and featured a script by Jeff Steinberg. The cast included Philip Rayburn Smith, Joy E. Gregory, Joey Slotnick, Teri Hatcher, Jon Stewart, Rachel Griffiths, and Lara Flynn Boyle, some of whom were part of Schwimmer’s beloved theater company.
Schwimmer’s Decision to Direct a Film with His Friends Over Playing Agent J
Warner Bros. Television
Schwimmer was determined to showcase the talent of his theater company. When the opportunity to star in “Men in Black” arose, it would have meant the end of “Since You’ve Been Gone.” However, Schwimmer’s commitment to his friends and theater company led him to decline the role. He explained, “All my best friends in the world in my theater company quit their jobs so they could be in this film over the summer, which was going to be a six-week shoot in Chicago.” Accepting the role in “Men in Black” would have meant leaving his friends and crew jobless.
Schwimmer acknowledged that “Men in Black” was a fantastic opportunity but felt that his theater company and relationships would have suffered. He decided not to play Agent J, a role that Will Smith took on, leading to the film’s worldwide success of over $587 million and several sequels. Schwimmer admitted that he is fully aware of the stardom the role could have brought him, but he believes in following one’s instincts and heart when making such decisions.
Schwimmer Recognizes His Potential Stardom
Wilson Webb/Sony Pictures Releasing
Despite the missed opportunity, Schwimmer’s decision had its positive outcomes. He managed to make a film with his friends, some of whom went on to have successful careers in Hollywood. However, Schwimmer’s film did not get a theatrical release and was instead aired as a TV movie on ABC.
The behind-the-scenes events remain unclear, but it is worth noting that Harvey Weinstein, the disgraced producer, had significant influence at Miramax at the time. Roger Ebert, in his book “Questions For The Movie Answer Man,” addresses a question about the negative buzz surrounding the film (then titled “Stepping in the Dogwater”) and the possibility of sabotage. Kevin Smith, in his memoir “Tough Sh*t,” also recalls Miramax’s attempts to include actors like Schwimmer, with whom they had deals, into his 1997 film “Chasing Amy.” It’s evident that Schwimmer’s deal with Miramax and the “Men in Black” opportunity were more complex than they initially appeared.
Regardless, Schwimmer deserves credit for standing by his friends and being candid about the complexity of the decision, even after nearly two decades.
FAQs
Q: Why did David Schwimmer turn down the role in “Men in Black”?
A: Schwimmer turned down the role to direct a film featuring his theater company, a project he felt strongly about.
Q: What was the film that Schwimmer chose to direct?
A: The film was “Since You’ve Been Gone,” a comedy about a class reunion.
Q: Did Schwimmer regret his decision?
A: While Schwimmer acknowledges the stardom “Men in Black” could have brought him, he stands by his decision, believing in the importance of following one’s heart and gut.
Credit: www.slashfilm.com
