New Girl's Casting Secret: Winston Almost Missed the Cut

Zooey Deschanel recently detailed a pivotal casting challenge during the early days of the sitcom New Girl. She explained that while many cast members were quickly secured, finding the right actor for Winston Bishop proved difficult. Lamorne Morris, who ultimately portrayed Winston, had initially auditioned for the role of Coach. However, after Coach's character had to depart following the pilot due to another series renewal, the opportunity for Winston arose.

Deschanel recalled that numerous actors auditioned for Winston's part. Despite this, she and co-stars Jake Johnson and Max Greenfield were convinced Morris was the perfect fit. They took the unusual step of writing to the heads of the studio and the network to advocate for Morris. This collective endorsement played a crucial role in his casting, much to the relief of the show's creative team and fans alike, who now find it impossible to imagine New Girl without him.