Captain America Role: Ginny & Georgia Star's Audition Story
The Captain America role is one of the most coveted in Hollywood, and before Chris Evans donned the shield, many actors vied for the part, including Scott Porter, known for his role in Ginny & Georgia. This article explores Porter's journey and other actors who almost became the First Avenger.
Before Chris Evans became the beloved Captain America in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Scott Porter of Ginny & Georgia fame revealed he was among the final contenders for the role in 2011's Captain America: The First Avenger. Porter shared this tidbit during a recent appearance on Watch What Happens Live!
While the part ultimately went to Evans, Porter harbors no ill will. "Who else can be Captain America than Chris Evans? I was not mad at all, and I watched all the Avengers movies. I’m a huge nerd, and the man just crushed it.”
Despite his admiration for Evans' portrayal, the rejection was tough. "That was, like, a big, I’m bent over, sobbing, heaving. Yeah, it was bad. Because all these press outlets had put my head on Captain America's body, and I started to buy in. I was like, 'I can do this. Oh, no, no. Yeah, I can’t.’”
Other Actors in the Running for Captain America
Who else was considered for the iconic role of Captain America? Porter mentioned Mike Vogel (Cloverfield, Under the Dome) and Wilson Bethel (Daredevil: Born Again) were also in contention.
Bethel even screen-tested twice, including on his birthday, and met with director Joe Johnston. He even tried on the Captain America costume. “It was both, probably the single most exciting time of my life and also the single most devastating when it didn’t happen,” Bethel said. “To be perfectly honest, that was one of the hardest moments in my professional career. And it spun me out for a while. Obviously, Chris did an incredible job in that role. And my life, while it hasn’t brought me to lead the Avengers, has been really rich and rewarding in other ways.”
Other actors who were once considered include Jensen Ackles, Kellan Lutz, Wyatt Russell, and John Krasinski. Russell later joined the MCU as John Walker in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, and Krasinski appeared as Reed Richards in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.
What Made Chris Evans the Right Choice?
While many talented actors were considered, Chris Evans' portrayal of Captain America resonated with audiences and solidified his place in MCU history. His dedication to the role and ability to embody the character's values made him a perfect fit.
The Impact of Near-Miss Casting Decisions
These near-miss casting decisions highlight the competitive nature of Hollywood and the impact that one role can have on an actor's career. While Scott Porter and others didn't become Captain America, they've found success in other roles.
Ultimately, the search for the perfect Captain America led to Chris Evans, who delivered a performance that has become synonymous with the character. The stories of those who were almost cast provide a fascinating glimpse into the world of superhero casting and the paths that actors take in their careers.