Home / Arts and Entertainment / Prince's Near-Miss: Gina Gershon Recalls 'Molecule Rearranging' Meeting
Prince's Near-Miss: Gina Gershon Recalls 'Molecule Rearranging' Meeting
2 Mar
Summary
- Gina Gershon was considered for a lead role in Prince's 1983 film 'Purple Rain'.
- She declined the offer due to discomfort with Prince's controlling demeanor and nickname.
- Gershon later regretted not collaborating with the music icon.
In 1983, actress Gina Gershon had a memorable encounter with the late music icon Prince Rogers Nelson. He was seeking a leading lady for his upcoming film, "Purple Rain," and Gershon was among those considered for the role. A musician friend alerted Gershon, then a New York University student, to Prince's interest.
Prince himself met Gershon and attempted to give her a new name, "Ghee-na," which she found unsettling. Despite the opportunity to become a protégée like other artists associated with Prince, Gershon ultimately declined the role, stating she did not want to be controlled. She later expressed regret over not having the chance to work with the musical genius.
Apollonia Kotero eventually took on the role in the iconic musical drama, which achieved significant box office success and an Oscar for its songwriting. Prince tragically passed away in 2016. Gershon, who has since penned a memoir titled "AlphaP****," will be discussing her experiences and the book in Manhattan.
