I often wonder why Robert Coote didn't play Pickering in the film of My Fair Lady. Anyone know?

[thtrbear]

Posted: 3/12/07 at 8:49am

nm

[philcrosby]

Posted: 3/12/07 at 3:24pm

I don't believe he was even considered for the role. Wilfrid Hyde-White was a very popular well-regarded British film comedian at the time.

[jv92]

Posted: 3/12/07 at 3:38pm

Hyde White was more prominent in Hollywood than Coote (who was quite prominent on Broadway though) and we all know how much Jack Warner completely disregared theater talent. Imagine, Cary Grant as Higgins and James Cagney as Doolittle. My God. What an awful film it might have been!

[Mother's Younger Brother]

Posted: 3/12/07 at 3:43pm

At least Cary Grant had the good sense, and wit, to turn it down: "Not only will I not be in your film, but if you don't cast Rex Harrison, I won't even go see it."

[jv92]

Posted: 3/12/07 at 3:44pm

I believe he threatened not only to not see it but not do another picture for Warner.