Television shows are a staple in our daily lives, providing us with a source of entertainment and a way to escape reality. We become attached to the characters and their journeys, eagerly awaiting each new episode. However, behind the scenes, there is a lot of work that goes into creating a successful TV show, including the casting process.
One of the first steps in creating a TV show is filming the pilot episode. The pilot serves as a test to see if the show has potential to be picked up by a network and is a crucial step in the casting process. The pilot is used to determine which actors fit the roles and bring the characters to life. However, sometimes the actors chosen for the pilot are not the actors that end up being a part of the final cast.
This phenomenon is known as a casting shift, where actors are replaced after the pilot episode. There are several reasons why this happens, including scheduling conflicts, creative differences, and simply not fitting the role as well as expected. Regardless of the reason, these casting shifts can have a significant impact on the show and the viewers.
For the fans, it can be a jarring experience to see a different actor playing a character they have grown to love. It can take time to adjust to the new actor and for some, the change may never sit well. On the other hand, a new actor can bring a fresh perspective to the character and breathe new life into the show.
In this list, we will explore some of the most notable TV actors who were replaced after the pilot episode. From comedic actors to dramatic performers, this list will showcase the talented individuals who stepped in to fill the shoes of those who came before them. So sit back, grab some popcorn, and get ready to take a trip down memory lane as we remember the TV actors who were replaced after the pilot.
15 Jenna Fischer - Andi Burns (Man With A Plan)
Jenna Fischer was originally cast as Andi Burns in the TV show Man With A Plan. The show followed the character of Adam, a contractor who becomes a stay-at-home dad, and his wife Andi. Fischer's Andi was a supportive and loving wife who helped Adam navigate the challenges of being a stay-at-home parent. However, after filming the pilot, Fischer was replaced by actress Liza Snyder. The change was not explained in the show, but Andi's character continued to play a central role in the storylines as Adam navigated parenthood. Fischer's time on the show was brief, but her performance as Andi Burns left a lasting impression on fans.
14 Rachel Dratch - Jenna Maroney/DeCarlo (30 Rock)
Rachel Dratch was the original choice for the role of Jenna Maroney on the hit TV show 30 Rock. Her character was a quirky and eccentric actress who was constantly seeking attention and validation. Dratch's portrayal of Jenna was well received in the pilot, but she was eventually replaced by actress Jane Krakowski. Despite the change, Jenna Maroney remained a fan favorite and continued to be a central character in the show. With Krakowski bringing her own unique spin to the role, Jenna Maroney's character evolved and grew throughout the show's seven-season run.
13 Miranda Otto - Virginia Pittman/Theresa Cullen (Westworld)
Miranda Otto was originally cast as Virginia Pittman, a mysterious and cunning character in the show Westworld. However, after filming the pilot, Otto was replaced by actress Sidse Babett Knudsen. The show's storylines revolved around a futuristic theme park where guests interact with robots, and Virginia Pittman was a key figure in the park's management. Otto's performance as Virginia was brief, but it set the stage for Ward's portrayal of Theresa Cullen, a character who was equally as complex and intriguing. Throughout the show's run, Theresa Cullen played a pivotal role in the storylines and her character's actions had major consequences for the park and its guests.
12 Tamzin Merchant - Daenerys Targaryen (Game Of Thrones)
Tamzin Merchant played the role of Daenerys Targaryen in the pilot episode of Game of Thrones, but was eventually replaced by Emilia Clarke. Daenerys, also known as the Mother of Dragons, is a central character in the series and a fan favorite. The character's storyline follows her journey from a young girl married off to a Dothraki warlord to becoming the leader of an army and claiming her rightful place on the Iron Throne. Tamzin's portrayal of Daenerys was well received, but the creators of the show ultimately decided to go in a different direction. Emilia Clarke's portrayal of Daenerys went on to become one of the most iconic performances in television history.
11 Riff Regan - Willow Rosenberg (Buffy The Vampire Slayer)
Riff Regan played the role of Willow Rosenberg in the pilot episode of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, but was eventually replaced by Alyson Hannigan. Willow is Buffy's best friend and a crucial member of the Scooby Gang. The character is known for her intelligence, dry wit, and eventual transformation into a powerful witch. Riff's portrayal of Willow was well received, but the creators of the show felt that she wasn't quite the right fit for the role. Alyson Hannigan's portrayal of Willow went on to become one of the most beloved characters in the Buffyverse.
10 Jennifer Ehle - Catelyn Stark (Game of Thrones)
Jennifer Ehle made a lasting impression on audiences with her portrayal of Catelyn Stark in the pilot episode of Game of Thrones. Her captivating performance as the matriarch of House Stark set the tone for the entire series and established Catelyn as a strong and determined character. Unfortunately, Jennifer was unable to continue her role due to other commitments and was replaced by Michelle Fairley. Michelle stepped in and brought her own unique interpretation to the character, and Catelyn's story arc continued to evolve over the course of the series. Despite the change, Catelyn remained a fan-favorite character, and both Jennifer and Michelle left a lasting impact on the show and its legacy.
9 Rebecca Gayheart - Inara Serra (Firefly)
Rebecca Gayheart was originally cast as the companion Inara Serra in the pilot episode of Firefly. Her performance was praised for its depth and nuance, and Inara quickly became a fan-favorite character. However, due to creative differences, Rebecca was replaced by Morena Baccarin. Morena's portrayal of Inara brought a new level of sophistication to the character and her relationship with the rest of the crew became one of the highlights of the show. Despite the change, Inara remained a central figure in the Firefly universe, and both Rebecca and Morena left a lasting impact on the show and its fans.
8 Alex Borstein - Sookie St. James (Gilmore Girls)
From the small town of Stars Hollow to the fast-paced world of a world-renowned chef, Alex Borstein brought Sookie St. James to life in the early days of Gilmore Girls. As the quirky and lovable best friend of Lorelai Gilmore, Sookie was a staple of the show, providing humor and heart in equal measure. However, after filming the pilot episode, Alex was replaced by Melissa McCarthy, who brought her own brand of humor and warmth to the role. Despite the change, Sookie remained a beloved character throughout the seven-season run of the show.
7 James Neate - Toby Cavanaugh (Pretty Little Liars)
As one of the central mysteries of Pretty Little Liars, Toby Cavanaugh was a complex and intriguing character from the beginning. James Neate brought a brooding intensity to the role in the pilot episode, but was eventually replaced by Keegan Allen. Under Keegan's portrayal, Toby became a fan-favorite, known for his dark past and his complicated relationship with Spencer Hastings. The character's journey was filled with twists and turns, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats and making him one of the most memorable characters in the show's seven-season run.
6 Florencia Lozano - Eleanor Waldorf (Gossip Girl)
Eleanor Waldorf was one of the most stylish and influential characters on Gossip Girl, known for her impeccable taste and her cutthroat business sense. Florencia Lozano brought a regal sophistication to the role in the pilot episode, but was eventually replaced by Margaret Colin. Apparently, the show demanded an actress that looked old enough to play Blair Waldorf’s mother. Under Margaret's portrayal, Eleanor became a staple of the Upper East Side, navigating the treacherous waters of New York society with grace and poise. From her iconic wardrobe to her unforgettable one-liners, Eleanor was a memorable character throughout the six-season run of the show.
5 Maura Tierney - Sarah Braverman (Parenthood)
Maura Tierney took on the role of Sarah Braverman in the hit TV show, Parenthood. As one of the main characters in the show, Sarah was a single mother trying to balance her career and personal life while raising her two kids. Tierney brought a sense of realism to the character, making her relatable to viewers. However, after the pilot episode, Tierney had to step away from the role due to health reasons. Lauren Graham stepped in to fill her shoes, bringing her own unique spin to the character. Despite the change, the show continued to be a critical and commercial success, showcasing the strength of its writing and ensemble cast.
4 Richard Kiel - The Incredible Hulk (The Incredible Hulk)
Richard Kiel brought a sense of gravitas to his portrayal of the Hulk's arch-nemesis in the hit TV show, The Incredible Hulk. As the towering, metal-toothed villain, Kiel was a force to be reckoned with on-screen. However, after the pilot episode, Kiel was replaced by another actor who brought a different energy to the character. The showmakers believed that Hulk was a character that needed to be portrayed as a muscular one, rather than a tall and towering one. Despite the change, the show continued to be a hit, captivating audiences with its blend of action and drama. Kiel's portrayal of the villain will always be remembered by fans of the show, solidifying his place in TV history.
3 John Posey - Danny Tanner (Full House)
John Posey was the original Danny Tanner in the classic TV show, Full House. As the father of three girls, Danny was a lovable and hardworking character who brought humor and heart to the show. Posey brought a sense of warmth to the character, making him instantly likable to audiences. However, after the pilot episode, Posey was replaced by Bob Saget who brought his own brand of humor to the character. Despite the change, Full House went on to become one of the most beloved TV shows of all time, captivating audiences of all ages. Posey's portrayal of Danny will always be remembered as an important part of the show's history.
2 Nathan Wetherington - Dean Forester (Gilmore Girls)
Nathan Wetherington brought to life the character of Dean Forester in the pilot episode of Gilmore Girls, a small-town dramedy about a mother-daughter duo navigating life in the quirky town of Stars Hollow. Dean was a central character in the show, serving as a love interest for the lead character, Rory Gilmore. However, after the pilot episode, Nathan was replaced by actor Jared Padalecki. Despite the change in actors, the character of Dean remained an important part of the show's storyline, eventually getting together with Rory for a larger part of the show. While Nathan's time on the show was brief, his performance left a lasting impression and helped lay the foundation for Dean's role in the series.
1 Nicholas Gonzalez - Dan Espinoza (Lucifer)
Nicholas Gonzalez portrayed the character of Dan Espinoza in the pilot episode of Lucifer, a show about the Devil himself coming to Los Angeles and opening up a nightclub. Dan was a detective in the LAPD, working alongside the lead character, Lucifer Morningstar, to solve crimes. However, after the pilot episode, Nicholas was replaced by actor Kevin Alejandro. Even after the change in actors, the character of Dan remained a crucial part of the show, serving as a source of comic relief and a foil to the otherworldly Lucifer. Over the course of the series, Dan's storyline developed, leading to him becoming a central character in his own right. While Nicholas' performance in the pilot was memorable, Kevin brought a unique energy to the role and helped shape Dan into the beloved character he is today.