'Anora' star Mikey Madison was almost in Star Wars? Here's what we know
Mikey Madison
Mikey Madison
, the breakout sensation of 'Anora' is quickly becoming one of the most in-demand names in the film industry. With an Oscar under her belt and accolades like a BAFTA and Independent Spirit Award in her name, the 26-year-old actress is now a top contender for high-profile projects.
But in an alternate timeline, Madison could have been headed not to the gritty streets of indie cinema but to the stars literally.
As per a recent Hollywood Reporter interview, Madison was in serious consideration for a role in
Shawn Levy
's upcoming project, which is also expected to star
Ryan Gosling
. While the casting never reached the final stages, sources revealed that discussions were indeed happening and the excitement around her potential involvement had been swirling for months within Hollywood circles.
Levy and Lucasfilm's fresh take piqued Madison's interest
Director Shawn Levy has been developing a new Star Wars installment with Lucasfilm since 2022. In a recent podcast appearance, Levy discussed his ambition to depart from the franchise's familiar tropes. 'I don't want to make a film that feels like a rerun,' he shared, hinting at a storyline that veers away from the timeline-heavy narratives fans have come to expect.
That creative pivot seems to align perfectly with Madison's current artistic direction.
After her breakthrough in 'Anora,' which debuted at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, she has been carefully choosing roles that challenge the norm. Her interest in this galaxy spanning saga may have stemmed from that same desire to explore unexpected, genre-defying stories.
From Tarantino to horror hits, Madison's choices have always surprised
Before 'Anora' catapulted her into the spotlight, Madison already had notable roles in films like Quentin Tarantino's 'Once Upon a Time in Hollywood' and 2022's 'Scream 5.'
Known for taking on unconventional, risk taking roles, her near miss with Star Wars adds another intriguing layer to her evolving career.
She also considered a part in Alejandro Landes' Reptilia, a romantic fantasy involving a mermaid and a dental hygienist, according to The Hollywood Reporter. These varied choices prove Madison isn't afraid to venture into strange, bold territory, whether grounded in human emotion or set among the stars.
Though the role didn't materialize, Madison's momentum shows no signs of slowing down.
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