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Jean Stapleton Nearly Played Jessica Fletcher
1 Sep
Summary
- Jean Stapleton was the first choice for Jessica Fletcher.
- Angela Lansbury was cast after Stapleton declined.
- 'Murder, She Wrote' aired for 12 seasons.
Before Angela Lansbury famously embodied Jessica Fletcher, creators initially envisioned a '70s sitcom legend for the role. Peter S. Fischer, one of the show's originators, revealed that Jean Stapleton, known for her portrayal of Edith Bunker, was their first choice.
Stapleton expressed conditional interest but remained noncommittal. By the time production was moving forward, she decided against taking on the role. This led the creative team to approach Angela Lansbury.
Lansbury, seeking a television project, accepted the part. This pivotal decision resulted in the launch of 'Murder, She Wrote,' which premiered with a two-hour TV movie pilot in 1984. The series subsequently aired for 12 seasons, concluding in 1996.
