Context:

Actors often audition for roles that they surprisingly don't get, even if they seem perfect for them. For example, Danny DeVito was considered for George Costanza in 'Seinfeld', but turned it down, while Adam Brody aspired to host 'Blue's Clues', which went to Steve Burns. Jennifer Lawrence auditioned for Serena in 'Gossip Girl' but lost the role to Blake Lively, and Michael Keaton was initially set to play Jack Shephard on 'Lost' but declined when the character's role was extended. Similarly, Zendaya auditioned multiple times for 'Descendants' and John Travolta declined the titular role in 'Forrest Gump', showing how casting decisions shape the television and film landscape.

Dive Deeper:

• Danny DeVito was a candidate to play George Costanza in 'Seinfeld', but he turned down the opportunity, possibly due to his thriving career at the time, which made him reluctant to take on a sidekick role. Jason Alexander, who eventually played the character, speculated about these reasons.

• Adam Brody, who later gained fame on 'The O.C.', was eager to host 'Blue's Clues' in 1999 and auditioned for the role. However, the show went with Steve Burns, who became synonymous with the children's program from 1996 to 2002.

• Jennifer Lawrence auditioned for and wanted the role of Serena van der Woodsen in 'Gossip Girl', but the part went to Blake Lively. Lawrence was reportedly disappointed not to get the role, but it marked a significant moment in her early career.

• Michael Keaton was initially offered the role of Jack Shephard on 'Lost', which was originally meant to be a short-lived character killed off in the pilot. As the character evolved to a more permanent role, Keaton declined, not wanting to commit to a long-running series, and Matthew Fox was cast instead.

• Zendaya auditioned multiple times for a role in the 'Descendants' franchise, a significant opportunity at the time. Despite her efforts, the role went to other actors, but she later found greater success with major roles like in the 'Spider-Man' movies, showing a redirection in her career path.

• John Travolta was offered the lead in 'Forrest Gump', but he chose to star in 'Pulp Fiction' instead. He has no regrets about his decision, as it led to a pivotal moment in his career with the success of 'Pulp Fiction', while Tom Hanks took on and excelled in the role of Forrest Gump.