Unbelievable!: Former Nickelodeon Star’s Surprising Revelation About Almost Playing Twilight's Edward

Summary

Josh Peck reveals that he almost played the role of Edward Cullen in Twilight, but lost out to Robert Pattinson.

Peck's audition for the role narrowed down to him and three other individuals, a fact he found implausible considering his mediocre physical condition.

Peck humorously remarks about the casting choice, likening it to deciding between Chris Hemsworth or Stanley Tucci for the role.

Josh Peck recently shared a surprising revelation on his podcast Good Guys featuring Taylor Lautner. He disclosed that he was actually considered for the role of Edward Cullen in the Twilight film adaptation by Stephenie Meyer, a part that ultimately went to Robert Pattinson. Peck, who gained fame from his appearances on Nickelodeon's The Amanda Show and the sitcom Drake and Josh alongside Drake Bell, had already made a name for himself in various projects such as ER, Mean Creek, and Ice Age: The Meltdown prior to the release of Twilight in 2008.

During the podcast episode, Peck recalled his audition experience and revealed that he made it to the final rounds, stating, "it’s down to you and three guys." He humorously expressed disbelief at the possibility of landing such a significant role, jokingly mentioning that he hadn't even undergone a tummy tuck yet.

Josh Peck's Career Could Have Been Very Different

I have a vivid memory of around 2006 or 2007 when I received an invitation to audition for a film called Twilight, which was based on a popular book. The excitement was palpable as they promised it would be a phenomenal project. So, without hesitation, I submitted my tape for the role of Edward. About a month later, during a meeting with my manager, he informed me that I was among the final contenders, along with three other talented individuals. Hearing this news, I was genuinely surprised and thought to myself, "Really?". It hadn't even crossed my mind that I had a shot at this because, to be frank, I hadn't undergone a tummy tuck yet. I was convinced that the character's requirement for a shirtless physique meant that I stood no chance. However, as a twist of fate would have it, I didn't get the role in the end. Later on, when I saw Robert Pattinson playing the part, I couldn't help but wonder, "In what universe did they consider casting me alongside actors like Chris Hemsworth or Stanley Tucci?" It seemed absolutely implausible, even impossible! It was a missed opportunity, but it's worth mentioning that we came extremely close to collaborating on that project.

If Josh Peck had portrayed Twilight's Edward Cullen, his career would undoubtedly have taken a different path. However, this is precisely what happened to Robert Pattinson, who had previously gained recognition for playing Cedric Diggory in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. Although it took some time for Pattinson to break free from the stereotype of Edward, he eventually found a balance between independent and mainstream films. From captivating audiences in films like The Lighthouse to portraying the iconic role of Batman, he has established a versatile career.

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Had Peck been cast as Edward, his transformation into a leading man would have happened much earlier. Following the conclusion of Drake and Josh, he embarked on a journey to adulthood by taking on various sidekick roles. These included playing supporting characters in projects such as the horror film ATM and the 2012 remake of Red Dawn.

He made a comeback to major leading roles only recently, when he became part of the main cast of the John Stamos sitcom Grandfathered in 2015. Since then, he has taken on more traditional leading and love interest roles in various projects, including Disney+'s Turner & Hooch and Hulu's How I Met Your Father. Being part of the extensive Oppenheimer cast further added to his repertoire. It is likely that Twilight would have opened up more opportunities for Peck in similar roles during the late 2000s, although he may not have fully matured as an actor at that time to fully embrace them as he does now.