In a recent interview on Billy Corgan’s “Magnificent Others” podcast (as reported by Entertainment Weekly), Corey Feldman alleged that Johnny Depp was instrumental in his dismissal from the film “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape,” a 1993 drama about a grocery store clerk and his troubled family, directed by Lasse Hallström. According to Feldman, he had been selected for the part of Arnie, the disabled younger brother of Depp’s character, but Leonardo DiCaprio eventually portrayed the role on screen instead.
He mentioned that he had been offered the part Leonardo DiCaprio played. However, he didn’t end up watching the movie due to lingering disappointment. Still, I must admit, I was initially selected for that specific role.
“Did they push you out?” Corgan asked.
In response to my question,” Feldman stated, “Johnny Depp was the one named. He joined the cast later than me, and it’s said that he privately shared his dislike for me with the producers, claiming I was a drug addict and that he wouldn’t collaborate with addicts. This is the first time I’m sharing this tale, so I anticipate some backlash.
At the height of his fame, thanks to his roles in “The Goonies” and “Stand by Me,” Feldman maintained that he was indeed sober during this incident, sharing: “I had recently completed my recovery program. I had just left rehab. I had made a significant change in my life, and, interestingly enough, I was even trying to guide River [Phoenix] at the time, whom Depp was associating with, as everyone is aware. As you might imagine, this created some tension, and if I hadn’t been forced out and taken on that role, who knows where my life could have gone from there.
As a film enthusiast, I can’t help but reminisce about the time Leonardo DiCaprio garnered immense critical praise for his exceptional role in “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape.” That performance even earned him his first Oscar nomination. However, when I shared my excitement with my friend Feldman, he responded with a taste of bitterness. Yet, he wisely advised, “You don’t dwell on such moments; you move past them.
EbMaster has reached out to Depp’s representatives for comment.
According to Feldman, Arnie initially missed out on a role to DiCaprio, and this happened for the first time. The second instance was during “Titanic,” but it’s worth noting that he wasn’t seriously considered for the part in James Cameron’s hit movie.
Interestingly enough, a few years after our conversation, I too auditioned for the role in ‘Titanic,’ which turned out to be quite coincidental. It was almost like a double whammy with Leonardo DiCaprio. However, since I wasn’t as attached to that project, it was alright that I didn’t get the part. I knew I had been considered for it, and I even read for it, but I apparently wasn’t one of the final contenders.
Listen to Feldman’s full interview on the “Magnificent Others” podcast below.
Read More
- Unleash Your Heroes’ True Potential: Best Stadium Builds for Every Overwatch 2 Hero
- 50 Goal Sound ID Codes for Blue Lock Rivals
- Lucky Offense Tier List & Reroll Guide
- Elder Scrolls Oblivion: Best Mage Build
- Elder Scrolls Oblivion: Best Spellsword Build
- Unlock All Avinoleum Treasure Spots in Wuthering Waves!
- Best Crosshair Codes for Fragpunk
- SWORN Tier List – Best Weapons & Spells
- WARNING: Thunderbolts Spoilers Are Loose – Proceed with Caution!
- Indonesian Horror Smash ‘Pabrik Gula’ Haunts Local Box Office With $7 Million Haul Ahead of U.S. Release
2025-03-28 18:16