Since its 2013 premiere, ‘Orange Is the New Black‘ became a turning point for the entertainment industry through its groundbreaking female representation and sharp critique of the prison system. The show brought unprecedented success to Netflix and remained one of the platform’s most popular shows.
But many don’t know that the inmates who eventually filled the halls of Litchfield Penitentiary could have looked very different. At some point, Katie Holmes seemed poised to play the lead character, Piper Chapman. But the actress turned down the offer because of several external factors. Here’s why Holmes rejected the beloved Netflix show.
Why Katie Holmes Couldn’t Join ‘Orange Is The New Black’ Cast
Long before ‘Orange Is the New Black’ earned its stellar reputation, the show’s creators considered several actresses for the role of Piper Chapman. As producer Jenji Kohan recalled, Katie Holmes was also in the mix but declined to play Piper due to other commitments.
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“I’m a big fan of hers,” Kohan told E! News in a 2014 interview. “You know, I met with her. She had other things to do. And also, in the beginning, no one knew what this was.” During its early months, the show had not gained the massive popularity it now enjoys.
Neither the creators nor the actors could have foreseen the profound impact the series would eventually have on the television industry. Holmes’ decision to pass up on the opportunity had nothing to do with a lack of interest in the plot or skepticism about the idea.
Like many successful actors, she had to balance multiple professional commitments. To play the lead role in a television series, one needs to commit significant time and effort. Unfortunately, Holmes had other important projects that she could not simply neglect.
The Show’s Breakout Success Was Impossible To Foresee
When declining the offer, Katie Holmes could never have anticipated the incredible success of ‘Orange Is the New Black.’ Even Netflix could hardly have imagined the huge impact the series would have on its viewing numbers.
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Therefore, it would be unfair to say that Holmes decided against playing Piper Chapman because of the script’s quality. She was just hesitant to get involved in something so new and unpredictable. After all, streaming TV series was an unfamiliar concept in the early 2010s.
Moreover, the thought of a prison comedy-drama based on a memoir winning such widespread critical acclaim seemed baffling. The role of Piper Chapman eventually went to Taylor Schilling. Her critically acclaimed performance became the show’s emotional anchor, earning her both Emmy and Golden Globe nominations over its seven-season run.
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