Home / Arts and Entertainment / Studio Wanted Jessica Simpson for A Walk to Remember
Studio Wanted Jessica Simpson for A Walk to Remember
11 Jun
Summary
- Warner Bros. initially preferred Jessica Simpson for Jamie Sullivan.
- Director Adam Shankman discovered Mandy Moore through her song.
- Moore's personal innocence matched the character's portrayal.
Director Adam Shankman disclosed that the studio behind the 2002 film "A Walk to Remember" initially favored Jessica Simpson for the role of Jamie Sullivan. Warner Bros. considered Simpson a better fit, partly due to her public expressions of Christian faith and because she was being considered for "The Phantom of the Opera."
Shankman recounted hearing Mandy Moore's song "I Wanna Be With You" on the radio and being struck by her voice, which he felt perfectly matched his vision for Jamie. A subsequent look at Moore's "So Real" album cover solidified his decision, confirming her innocent image aligned with the character. He ultimately cast Moore, impressed by her sweetness and innocence.
