Hugh Grant's Surprising Role Revelation in Good Omens Will Leave You Astonished!

Summary

Neil Gaiman initially considered Hugh Grant for the role of Aziraphale in the TV adaptation of Good Omens, but ultimately cast Michael Sheen.

David Tennant and Michael Sheen's onscreen chemistry, comedic sensibilities, and skillful portrayal have made them beloved by fans in their respective roles. Gaiman's casting of Tennant and Sheen as the ineffable duo was undoubtedly the perfect decision, even though Hugh Grant could have been an intriguing choice for Aziraphale.

Good Omens creator Neil Gaiman has disclosed that his original plan for the angel Aziraphale's role in the television adaptation was for Hugh Grant to portray the character. The critically acclaimed series, based on the bestselling 1990 novel co-authored by Gaiman and Terry Pratchett, premiered on Prime Video in 2019 with David Tennant as the demon Crowley and Michael Sheen as Aziraphale. Both actors have returned for season 2, which premiered in July of this year, and Gaiman intends to conclude the series with Good Omens season 3.

Recently, a fan contacted Gaiman on Tumblr to inquire about other actors he had in mind for the show's main roles. In response, the author revealed that during the writing of season 1, he initially considered Hugh Grant for the role of Aziraphale while Michael Sheen was his choice for Crowley.

Moreover, when he reached the midpoint of writing season 1, episode 3, he found himself captivated by the idea of casting Tennant as the mischievous Crowley and Sheen as his angelic counterpart. From that point onward, he confessed that he simply could not picture any other actors embodying these roles.

Would Hugh Grant Have Made A Good Aziraphale?

Tennant and Sheen have become inseparable from their roles as Crowley and Aziraphale after their successful two seasons. The finale of season 2 of Good Omens hints at a potential romantic relationship between the characters, which has only increased the admiration for the actors' unstoppable onscreen chemistry, humor, and talented portrayal. However, the possibility of a completely different pairing could have occurred if Gaiman's development process had taken a slightly different turn.

Although Sheen would have undoubtedly excelled as Crowley, given his exceptional track record playing memorable and charismatic villains, Grant would have brought an intriguing dimension to Aziraphale. Known primarily for his early roles in romantic comedies, Grant has consistently portrayed characters who share similar qualities with Aziraphale's charming yet meticulous nature.

Being able to portray a meticulous and unmistakably British angel is just a fraction of the role. The crucial aspect lies in his chemistry with the actor embodying the demonic partner. While Grant may have performed the role adequately, Gaiman undoubtedly made the correct decision. It is difficult to envision anyone else perfectly embodying the ineffable duo of Good Omens than Tennant and Sheen.