The Unforeseen Twists of Casting in Mr & Mrs Smith: A Story of Reunions and Departures
Explore the intricate web of casting changes in the popular TV series Mr & Mrs Smith, and how it could have led to a Star Wars reunion if things had gone differently.
The Original Plan That Never Came to Be
In the world of entertainment, casting decisions can make or break a production. Such was the case with the spy comedy-drama TV show 'Mr & Mrs Smith', a reboot of the 2005 movie featuring married assassins on a dangerous mission. Created by Donald Glover and Francesca Sloane, the series faced a major setback when the original actress set to play Jane, the female lead, departed the project for reasons undisclosed. This unexpected turn of events set the stage for a chain of casting changes that would alter the course of the show.
Phoebe Waller-Bridge as Helena Shaw peering from behind door in Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny
The initial vision for 'Mr & Mrs Smith' would have seen a different actress opposite Glover's character, John. However, fate had other plans, leading to the eventual casting of Maya Erskine as the replacement for Jane. This shift not only reshaped the dynamics of the onscreen duo but also opened the door to a missed opportunity for a unique reunion that could have delighted fans of a galaxy far, far away.
Donald Glover and Maya Erskine laughing on a bench in Mr. & Mrs. Smith
The Star Wars Connection That Almost Was
Imagine a world where the stars align, and two actors find themselves sharing the screen in not one but two distinct universes. Such was the potential scenario with Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Donald Glover, who had previously crossed paths in the Star Wars realm. Waller-Bridge, known for her role as the voice of L3-37 in 'Solo: A Star Wars Story', was initially slated to join Glover in 'Mr & Mrs Smith' as his onscreen partner once again.
Han Solo, Lando Calrissian, and L3-37 aboard the Millennium Falcon in Solo: A Star Wars Story
The prospect of a mini Star Wars reunion within the confines of 'Mr & Mrs Smith' held promise for fans of the franchise, offering a glimpse of the chemistry between Waller-Bridge and Glover beyond the galaxy's edge. However, as fate would have it, creative divergences led to Waller-Bridge's departure from the project, paving the way for Erskine to step into the role and reshape the narrative landscape of the series.
Donald Glover and Maya Erskine as John and Jane laying on floor in Mr. & Mrs. Smith's finale
The Impact of Creative Choices on Characterization
The departure of Waller-Bridge from 'Mr & Mrs Smith' not only altered the course of casting but also had profound implications for the character of Jane and the overall tone of the series. Waller-Bridge's distinct comedic style, honed through projects like 'Fleabag' and 'Crashing', clashed with the vision Glover had for the show, leading to a parting of ways based on 'creative differences'. This divergence in creative sensibilities ultimately shaped the evolution of Jane's character and the dynamic between the lead actors.
John looking over at Jane in bed in Mr. & Mrs. Smith series
With Erskine stepping into the role, the character of Jane underwent significant changes to align with her acting style and strengths. The onscreen chemistry between Glover and Erskine brought a new dynamic to the series, showcasing a different interpretation of the John and Jane pairing that could have been with Waller-Bridge in the mix. The ripple effects of casting choices and creative clashes reverberated throughout 'Mr & Mrs Smith', leaving behind a tale of what-ifs and the enduring legacy of the show's unexpected journey.
Donald Glover and Maya Erskine watching TV in Mr. & Mrs. Smith
