George Clooney, the acclaimed actor and filmmaker, has openly discussed his feelings about losing out on a significant early career role. Speaking in an interview with Newsmax, Clooney revealed that he carried a long-standing frustration after nearly landing the part of J.D. in Ridley Scott’s iconic film “Thelma & Louise,” ultimately giving it to Brad Pitt.
According to reports from Monday, December 1, 2025, Clooney reached the final stages of auditions for this pivotal character before Pitt secured the role. He stated that when he learned Pitt would be taking over the part he desperately wanted years ago, he was deeply annoyed and didn’t watch “Thelma & Louise” until much later.
“I got to the final test for a role in Thelma & Louise… And, genuinely annoyed, Brad Pitt got it,” Clooney mentioned. The setback stayed with him for decades as he tried to move past the bitterness associated with missing out on what could have been his career-defining moment before “Ocean’s Eleven.”
This feeling of rivalry between Clooney and Pitt has persisted since their early careers collided over J.D., paving the way for one of Hollywood’s most fruitful partnerships. Clooney eventually saw the film, but it didn’t change his initial negative reaction.
“Eventually he did watch ‘Thelma & Louise’ after I told him not to be mad,” said Geena Davis from her perspective in an interview with The Sunday Times. Davis added that while she understood Clooney’s annoyance, her casting process for J.D. was different. Pitt immediately stood out during his audition.
“And then the fourth one who comes in is Brad Pitt… He’s so charismatic and incredibly talented I forgot my lines,” recalled Davis. She also mentioned a later conversation where Clooney reportedly referred to Pitt as someone he disliked professionally due to this initial casting snub.
While not confirming if Pitt’s selection influenced her feelings, Davis noted that the part had been read with several actors before choosing him, including Grant Show and Mark Ruffalo among others.
