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Hugh Grant's Fear: Why He Dodged $750K TV Role
17 Oct
Summary
- Hugh Grant reportedly turned down $750,000 per episode to join Two and a Half Men.
- Grant feared performing in front of a live studio audience, Lorre revealed.
- Ashton Kutcher ultimately replaced Charlie Sheen, extending the show by four seasons.
In his new memoir, "Sitcom," Chuck Lorre shares details about Hugh Grant's near involvement with "Two and a Half Men." Lorre theorizes Grant declined a substantial offer, reportedly $750,000 per episode, because it didn't align with his artistic aspirations. Lorre expressed admiration for Grant's decision to prioritize acting passion over a massive paycheck.
Lorre recounts how, after Charlie Sheen's departure in 2011, CBS chairman Les Moonves insisted the show continue. Grant emerged as a candidate, with Lorre and his partner even crafting test scenes. Grant's primary concern was performing for a live audience, a fear Lorre offered to mitigate by using canned laughter.
Despite the offer of a four-day workweek and exceptional pay, Grant reportedly hesitated at the last moment, pen in hand. Ultimately, Grant's team informed producers he would not join the series. This led Lorre to consider Ashton Kutcher, whose charm and tech interest inspired the character Walden Schmidt, extending the show for four more seasons until its 2015 conclusion.
