Jennifer Lawrence and the Internet Backlash: The Role of Sharon Tate
In a recent episode of the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Jennifer Lawrence opened up about her experience with internet backlash and how it may have influenced her career choices, particularly regarding the role of Sharon Tate in Quentin Tarantino’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. The actress revealed that she missed out on the part, which ultimately went to Margot Robbie, due to public sentiment suggesting she wasn’t "pretty enough" for the iconic role.
The Impact of Public Perception
During the podcast, host Josh Horowitz mentioned that Tarantino had been keen on casting Lawrence alongside Hollywood heavyweights Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt. However, the actress recounted that the internet’s reaction to her potential casting was overwhelmingly negative. "Well, he did, and then everybody was like, ‘She’s not pretty enough to play Sharon Tate,’" Lawrence stated, expressing disbelief at the harsh criticism she faced.
Lawrence further reflected on the situation, saying, "I’m pretty sure it is true… Or it’s that thing where I’ve been telling the story this way for so long that I believe it." This statement highlights the psychological toll that public opinion can take on an actor, especially when it revolves around their physical appearance.
A Lighthearted Exchange
In a moment of levity, Horowitz responded to Lawrence’s claims with skepticism, suggesting that the internet would "never do that." To this, Lawrence humorously retorted, "No, those sweetie pies?" This exchange underscores the often absurd nature of online commentary and the sometimes harsh realities of being in the public eye.
Missed Opportunities with Tarantino
The conversation also touched on Lawrence’s previous missed opportunities with Tarantino. She revealed that she had turned down a role in The Hateful Eight, which was originally written for her. "I turned it down, which I should not have done," she admitted with a laugh, reflecting on her decision with a mix of regret and humor.
Debra Tate’s Perspective
Debra Tate, Sharon Tate’s sister, weighed in on the casting decision back in 2017, stating that Margot Robbie was the best choice for the role due to her "physical beauty and the way she carries herself." Tate explicitly mentioned that she didn’t think Lawrence was "pretty enough" for the part, a sentiment that added fuel to the fire of public discourse surrounding the casting.
Tarantino’s Thoughts on Casting
In 2021, Tarantino clarified that while he considered Lawrence for Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, he envisioned her for a different role altogether. He "flirted with" the idea of casting her as Squeaky Fromme, a role that eventually went to Dakota Fanning. Tarantino praised Fanning’s performance, calling it "one of the best" in the film, but acknowledged that he had explored the possibility of Lawrence in the role.
A Respectful Relationship
Despite the missed opportunities, Tarantino expressed his respect for Lawrence as an actress. He noted that they had met to discuss the script, but ultimately, "something didn’t work out." This sentiment reflects the complexities of casting decisions in Hollywood, where talent and public perception often collide in unexpected ways.
The Broader Implications
Lawrence’s experience serves as a poignant reminder of the impact of social media and public opinion on the careers of actors. The scrutiny that comes with fame can shape not only the roles they are offered but also their self-perception and mental health. As the conversation around beauty standards and representation in Hollywood continues to evolve, Lawrence’s story highlights the ongoing challenges faced by actresses in an industry that often prioritizes appearance over talent.
