Corey Feldman Reflects on a Career Defining Moment
Corey Feldman recently opened up about a significant turning point in his career that continues to resonate with him. During an episode of The Magnificent Others with Billy Corgan podcast, he shared insights into his casting experience in the acclaimed film What’s Eating Gilbert Grape from 1993.
Missed Opportunity: A Role Replaced
Feldman revealed that he was set to portray the character that ultimately went to Leonardo DiCaprio. “I was actually cast to play Leonardo DiCaprio’s role,” he disclosed, highlighting the unexpected turn his career took.
The Impact of Johnny Depp
When questioned by Corgan about his departure from the project, Feldman insinuated that Johnny Depp played a pivotal role in the decision. “Johnny did,” he remarked, explaining how Depp had been cast after him and allegedly influenced the producers against him. “He whispered into the producers’ ear that he wasn’t fond of me,” Feldman recounted, revealing that Depp had labeled him as a “junkie” and expressed his reluctance to work alongside him.
Personal Struggles and Sobriety
Feldman strongly denied the allegations, insisting he was sober at that time. “I had just gotten sober; I just got out of rehab,” he stated. He also mentioned his efforts to assist River Phoenix, who was dealing with his own struggles at the time. “In fact, I was trying to help River, who Depp was running with at the time. As we all know, River’s last night on earth was at Johnny’s establishment,” he added, reflecting on the complex emotions tied to his shared history with Phoenix and Depp.
A Lasting Bitter Flavor
River Phoenix, who had previously starred alongside Feldman in Stand by Me, tragically passed away in 1993 from a drug overdose outside the famous Viper Room, a club co-owned by Depp. Such connections only deepen Feldman’s reflections on his past choices.
Contemplating What Could Have Been
Looking back, Feldman expressed regret over missing the opportunity for the Gilbert Grape role, which not only elevated DiCaprio’s career but also earned him his first Oscar nomination. “I’ve never seen the film because it’s still a bitter leaf,” Feldman admitted. He pondered the potential trajectory of his career, asking, “Had I not been pushed out and done that role, who knows what would have happened from that point forward?”
The Hollywood Reporter has reached out for comments regarding this account from Depp’s representatives.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hTh0CCGJYIc