‘The Walking dead’: surprising Near-Miss Casting for Negan Revealed
Jeffrey Dean Morgan’s portrayal of Negan in “The Walking Dead” is iconic, but a different actor almost swung Lucille. Read on to find out who nearly landed the role of the infamous villain.
Negan Almost Had a Different Face
While it’s hard to imagine anyone other than Jeffrey Dean Morgan uttering Negan’s signature lines, another actor was seriously considered for the part. The casting choice nearly went in a very different direction.
Skeet Ulrich Was a Top Choice for Negan
Skeet Ulrich, best known for his role in the horror film “scream,” was reportedly a strong contender to play Negan. According to sources, Ulrich was seriously considered before the role ultimately went to Morgan.
The Impact of Casting: jeffrey dean Morgan’s Negan
Ultimately, Jeffrey dean Morgan’s performance as Negan has become a defining part of “The walking Dead” series. His portrayal brought a complex mix of charm and brutality to the character, making him a villain viewers loved to hate. It remains a topic of debate on what the show would have looked like with Ulrich in the role.
‘The Walking Dead’: Which Other Actors Almost Played Negan?
Jeffrey Dean Morgan’s portrayal of Negan in “The Walking Dead” is iconic, but he wasn’t the only actor considered for the role.Negan, known for his barbed-wire-wrapped baseball bat “Lucille” and ruthless leadership of the Saviors, stands as one of the series’ most memorable antagonists, alongside the Governor and alpha.
Other Actors in the Running to Play Negan
While it’s hard to imagine anyone other than Morgan delivering Negan’s menacing monologues and brutal justice,casting directors considered other talents for the part.
According to reports,several actors were in contention for the role before it ultimately went to Morgan. These included:
- Garret Dillahunt: Known for his roles in “Deadwood” and “Justified,” Dillahunt publicly campaigned for the role on social media, expressing his enthusiasm for the character.
- Matt Dillon: The Hollywood star had a good chance to play Negan, but he decline the offer, because of his filming schedule.
- Timothy Olyphant: Another “Deadwood” alum, olyphant was reportedly a strong contender, bringing a similar intensity he exuded in his previous roles.
- Henry Rollins: musician and actor Henry Rollins also auditioned for the role.
Why Jeffrey Dean Morgan Was Ultimately Chosen
Ultimately,Jeffrey Dean Morgan’s audition performance captured the essence of negan’s complex personality and his ability to be both terrifying and charismatic. His chemistry with the existing cast and his understanding of the character’s motivations solidified his place as the perfect Negan.
While fans might wonder what “The Walking Dead” would have looked like with a different actor wielding Lucille,Morgan’s portrayal has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the series and television history.
Matthew Lillard Almost Played Negan in ‘The Walking Dead’
Best known for playing Stu Macher in the original “Scream,” Matthew Lillard was reportedly a serious contender for the role of Negan in “The Walking Dead,” a role that ultimately went to Jeffrey Dean Morgan.
‘Scream’ Star in the Running for Iconic Villain Role
Before Jeffrey Dean Morgan indelibly stamped his mark on the character of Negan, the charismatic and brutal leader of the Saviors in “The Walking Dead,” another actor was in the running: Matthew Lillard.Lillard, known for his roles in “Scooby-Doo” and, most notably, as Stu Macher in the original “Scream,” was reportedly seriously considered for the part.
Killer Experience: From Ghostface to Negan?
Lillard’s experience playing a killer, most famously as one of the Ghostface murderers in “Scream,” seemingly made him a viable candidate to portray Negan’s menacing persona. His potential casting offers an intriguing glimpse into an alternate reality for “The Walking Dead,” one where a different actor might have wielded Lucille, Negan’s infamous baseball bat.
While fans have embraced Morgan’s portrayal of Negan, it’s interesting to consider how Lillard, who has appeared in six “Scream” films and is slated to return for “Scream 7,” might have brought his own interpretation to the complex character.
Ultimately, the role went to Morgan, solidifying him as a fan favorite within “The Walking Dead” universe, alongside other iconic characters portrayed by Lauren Cohan (Maggie), Danai Gurira (Michonne), and Norman Reedus (Daryl).
Matthew Lillard Reveals He Almost Played Negan on ‘The Walking Dead’
Actor Matthew Lillard, known for his roles in “Scream” and “Scooby-Doo,” revealed he was a serious contender for the role of Negan on “The Walking Dead,” a part ultimately played by Jeffrey Dean Morgan. Lillard shared the story of his audition experience during a 2022 Walker Stalker Con panel in Atlanta.
From Ignorance to Final Contender: Lillard’s ‘Walking dead’ Audition
Lillard initially auditioned for the role without knowing much about the popular comic book adaptation. “I got a call. They said they want me to audition for ‘The Walking Dead.’ It’s a big part. I’m like, ‘Okay, cool.’ I hadn’t watched the show, sorry,” Lillard admitted. He impressed the producers, making it to the shortlist for the role.
The Negan Showdown: Lillard vs. Morgan
Following his first audition, Lillard was asked to perform a second audition, where the producers encouraged him to be “funny and dramatic.” It was at this point that the gravity of the role became apparent: he was in contention for the part of Negan, facing off against jeffrey Dean Morgan.Ultimately,Morgan landed the role,becoming a defining character in the series.
Jeffrey Dean Morgan’s ‘Walking Dead’ Role Almost Went to Matthew Lillard
Jeffrey dean Morgan’s portrayal of Negan in AMC’s “The Walking Dead” has become iconic, but the role was almost filled by another actor: Matthew Lillard.
Lillard Was Initial Choice for the Role
Reports suggest Lillard was seriously considered for the part of the infamous villain. His “wicked energy” was a key factor in his consideration. While it’s unconfirmed if Lillard’s previous role as Ghostface in “Scream” influenced the decision,there are noted similarities between the characters.
Robert Kirkman’s Vision
Ironically,”The Walking Dead” comic creator Robert Kirkman had previously expressed interest in Lillard playing Negan.Kirkman envisioned Lillard when he saw “JDM” merchandise. This casting choice could have brought a different dynamic to the character, although many fans are grateful for the complexity Morgan brought to the role.
Negan’s Evolution
Over time, Negan evolved from a villain into an anti-hero, displaying a softer side, especially towards children. The character continues his journey in “The Walking Dead: Dead City,” a spin-off series. The second season of “Dead City” will premiere on May 4th on AMC.
Dark Winds Season 3: Navajo Nation Mystery Returns to AMC and Magenta TV
Gear up for a chilling return to the Navajo Nation as “Dark Winds” season 3 prepares to unravel new mysteries. Premiering May 4 on AMC, and available the next day, May 5, on Magenta TV, the acclaimed series promises a gripping continuation of its Southwestern crime drama.
Navajo police Face New Challenges in Season 3
Based on the iconic Leaphorn & Chee novel series by Tony Hillerman, ”Dark winds” delves into the lives of Navajo Tribal Police officers Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee as they navigate complex investigations against the backdrop of the stunning, yet unforgiving, desert landscape. This season, Leaphorn and Chee confront both external threats and internal demons that test their resolve and partnership.
A Weekly Dose of Suspense
Fans can anticipate weekly episode releases on Magenta TV, allowing for a steady build-up of suspense and intrigue as the season progresses.
Return to the Southwest
Set in the 1970s, “Dark Winds” not only delivers thrilling crime narratives but also offers a unique glimpse into Navajo culture and traditions. The series captures the essence of Hillerman’s novels, with authentic depiction and a deep respect for the Navajo people and their heritage.
**Did Matthew Lillard almost play negan?**
‘The Walking Dead’ & Negan: Your Burning Questions answered
Ever wonder about the “what ifs” of “The Walking Dead”? This article dives deep into the casting choices for the iconic villain, Negan. Here’s a breakdown to satisfy your curiosity:
Q&A: Unveiling the Secrets of Negan’s Casting
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Who was the first actor considered for Negan?
Skeet ulrich, known for “Scream,” was a top contender.
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Besides Skeet Ulrich, who else was in the running?
Garret Dillahunt, Matt Dillon, Timothy Olyphant, and Henry Rollins were also considered.
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Who ultimately played Negan?
Jeffrey Dean morgan.
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What was Matthew Lillard’s connection to the role?
He was also seriously considered and even made it through multiple auditions.
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What did Robert Kirkman think about Matthew lillard?
The creator of “The Walking Dead” comic had previously expressed interest in Lillard playing Negan.
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What made Jeffrey Dean morgan the perfect Negan?
He captured Negan’s complex personality and ability to be both terrifying and charismatic, demonstrating a perfect understanding of the character’s motivations, and had great chemistry wiht the rest of the cast.
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What is the upcoming season of “Dark Winds” about?
It will unravel new mysteries for the Navajo Tribal Police officers Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee as they navigate complex investigations against the backdrop of the desert landscape. Season 3 premieres May 4 on AMC.
So, what do you think? Would you have loved to see a different actor wield Lucille? Let us know!
