Corey Feldman Claims Johnny Depp Got Him Fired From Film

Corey Feldman recently opened up about a pivotal moment in his career during an appearance on Billy Corgan’s "Magnificent Others" podcast, claiming that actor Johnny Depp played a significant role in him being fired from the 1993 film "What’s Eating Gilbert Grape." Feldman revealed that he was originally cast to portray Arnie, the disabled younger brother of Depp’s character, Gilbert, a role that ultimately went to Leonardo DiCaprio, who received critical acclaim and his first Oscar nomination for the performance.

During the podcast, Feldman expressed his lingering bitterness over the situation, stating, "I never saw the film because I’m still bitter. Bitter leaf in that one." This admission highlights not only his disappointment but also the impact of the casting decision on his career trajectory.

According to Feldman, the conflict arose when Depp, who was cast after him, allegedly whispered to the film's producers that he was not fond of Feldman, suggesting that he was a junkie and that he wouldn’t work with someone struggling with addiction. "Johnny did," Feldman asserted when asked if he was pushed out of the film. "He was cast after I was, and apparently whispered into the producers’ ear that he wasn’t fond of me, and thought — he said that I was a junkie and that he didn’t work with junkies. And this is the first time I’ve ever telling this story, so I’m sure I’m gonna get hung by this one."

Feldman emphasized that he was actually sober at the time, having just completed rehab, and was trying to help fellow actor River Phoenix, who was also in Depp’s circle. "I had just gotten sober; I had just gotten out of rehab. I had turned my life around, and, in fact, was trying to help River [Phoenix] at the time, who [Depp] was running with at the time, as we all know. As you can imagine, there was a bit of a thorn in the side on that one," he explained.

The tragic death of River Phoenix in 1993 from a drug overdose at the Viper Room, a nightclub co-owned by Depp, adds a layer of complexity to Feldman’s feelings about the situation. He reflected, "Had I not been pushed out and done that role, who knows what would have happened from that point forward?" This question underscores the uncertainty and regret that often accompany missed opportunities in Hollywood.

While DiCaprio’s performance in "What’s Eating Gilbert Grape" is celebrated, Feldman’s career took a different path. He noted, "There was a bitter tea there. But that said, you don’t hang on those, you get past ’em." His comment suggests a desire to move forward despite the past disappointments.

Interestingly, Feldman also revealed that he was in contention for another iconic role a few years later, as he was up for the part of Samwise Gamgee in "The Lord of the Rings," which ultimately went to his "Goonies" co-star Sean Astin. Additionally, he mentioned that he was considered for the role in "Titanic" against DiCaprio, although he felt he wasn’t as close to landing that part. "But that was OK, because that one I wasn’t as close. I was up for it, I read for it, I know that I was in the contention somewhere," he said.

Feldman’s revelations have sparked renewed interest in his career and the dynamics of Hollywood casting. As a child star known for his roles in films like "The Goonies" and "Stand by Me," Feldman’s journey through the industry has been marked by both triumphs and challenges. His candidness about the impact of his past struggles with addiction and the competitive nature of acting serves as a reminder of the complexities faced by many in the entertainment world.

The podcast episode has drawn attention not only for Feldman’s claims but also for the implications it raises about the influence of established stars on casting decisions. It prompts questions about the power dynamics at play in Hollywood and how they can affect the careers of aspiring actors.

As Feldman continues to reflect on his career, his story resonates with many who have faced similar challenges in the pursuit of their dreams. His experiences underscore the importance of perseverance and the ability to move past setbacks, even when they are deeply personal and impactful.

In a world where casting decisions can alter the course of a career, Feldman’s reflections serve as a poignant reminder of the often unseen battles that actors face behind the scenes. While he may have lost out on roles that could have defined his career, his willingness to share his story adds depth to the conversation about fame, addiction, and the quest for redemption in Hollywood.