In a recent interview with People, Idris Elba revealed that he auditioned for the role of Gaston in Disney’s live-action Beauty and the Beast. And I demand to know who was responsible for depriving us of this performance!
The conversation began as they discussed Elba’s career, which involved a part in the touring cast of Guys & Dolls. While Elba demurely protested, “I don’t sing,” per say, his roles and his admission to the UK’s National Youth Music Theatre would suggest otherwise.
“I honestly love musicals,” Elba said. “I auditioned for Beauty and The Beast. I really did – for Gaston. I called; I called! I said, ‘Listen, I want in!’ They were like, ‘Aaah, you know, well…Yeah, okay.’ So somewhere they have a tape of me singing.”
Interviewer Jess Cagle then asked the question on all of our minds: how can we get a copy of that tape?
“Here’s the thing: no,” Elba answered.
“Wait, was it not good?” Cagle asked.
“Well, I didn’t get the part!” Elba laughed.
Now, as immediately delighted as I was by the idea of Elba as Gaston, I guess I understand why they chose Luke Evans instead. (Aside from Evans’ clear talent and comic timing!) The simple fact is that Gaston’s meant to look ridiculous singing about how he is perfection embodied, and Elba would have just been telling the truth.
(Via Daily Dot; image via NBC Universal)
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