20th Century Studios
In today’s age, where Instagram gives celebrities the power to control their public perception, the term “sex symbol” has lost its traditional significance as anyone can become a sex symbol given the right circumstances. Despite this, legendary sex symbols like Marilyn Monroe and Brigitte Bardot continue to be relevant, with new generations discovering them through pop culture references or mentions in pop songs. The year 2023 saw the demise of film star, model, and international sex symbol Raquel Welch, marking the end of the “classic” era of sex symbols. Welch’s legacy as a sex symbol is well-documented, with her biography by Peter Haining titled “Raquel Welch: Sex Symbol to Super Star,” and her iconic poster from “One Million Years B.C.” famously covering the escape hole in Andy Dufresne’s jail cell in “The Shawshank Redemption.”
Welch was conscious of her public image, which motivated her to pursue roles like the eponymous “Myra Breckinridge” or in “Bandolero!” to demonstrate her acting prowess beyond her physical appeal. It was a struggle to convince the studio system that Welch had more to offer, but that didn’t deter her. Interestingly, before her big break with “A Swingin’ Summer” in 1965, Welch was one of over 350 actresses who auditioned for “Gilligan’s Island.” Given her glamorous Hollywood persona, one might assume that Welch aimed for the role of Ginger Grant. However, Welch had her sights set on a character that was somewhat unconventional.
Raquel Welch’s Unexpected Audition for Mary Ann Summers
CBS
As per MeTV, a television channel specializing in classic shows, Raquel Welch auditioned for the role of Mary Ann Summers, the innocent girl-next-door character made popular by Dawn Wells. Mary Ann was designed to provide a contrast to Tina Louise’s Ginger Grant with her wholesome appearance and practical domestic skills. She lands on the island after winning a trip on a three-hour tour in a competition and travels alone to the S.S. Minnow from her home in Kansas. This backstory influenced Mary Ann’s iconic look — gingham and pigtails reminiscent of Judy Garland’s Dorothy Gale in “The Wizard of Oz.”
Wells, a former beauty queen with wide, youthful eyes, was an ideal fit for Mary Ann. Welch, despite her acting skills, has never been the “girl next door” type. Rumors have been circulating for years (though unconfirmed) that Welch was deemed “too sexy” for the role, and there were concerns that she could potentially overshadow Tina Louise’s Ginger, who was intended to be the more glamorous of the two women.
Mary Ann Summers became Wells’ defining role, while Welch carved a niche for herself as a sex symbol. It appears that everything fell into place just as it was meant to be.
FAQs
Who was Raquel Welch?
Raquel Welch was a renowned Hollywood actress and international sex symbol known for her roles in films like “One Million Years B.C.” and “Myra Breckinridge.”
What role did Raquel Welch audition for in “Gilligan’s Island”?
Raquel Welch auditioned for the role of Mary Ann Summers, a character that was eventually played by Dawn Wells.
Did Raquel Welch get the role in “Gilligan’s Island”?
No, Raquel Welch did not get the role in “Gilligan’s Island.” The part of Mary Ann Summers went to Dawn Wells.
Why did Raquel Welch not get the role in “Gilligan’s Island”?
While it’s not confirmed, rumors suggest that Raquel Welch was considered “too sexy” for the role of Mary Ann Summers.
Credit: www.slashfilm.com
