Was considered for the lead role.

Was considered for the lead role, but producers later decided she was too old.

Mentioned as a possible star of the film.

Crowe has stated that he was offered the part by Harvey Weinstein if he would sign on for a package deal of 4 films. Crowe refused but continued to lobby for the part of Shakespeare.

In about 1996, Daniel Day Lewis was cast alongside Julia Roberts, but dropped out weeks before shooting began.

Bridget Fonda was considered for the role of Viola.

Foster was considered for the lead role.

Daryl Hannah was considered for the role of Viola.

Helen Hunt was considered for the role of Fiona.

Ashley Judd was considered for the role of Viola.

Nicole Kidman turned down the lead role.

Diane Lane was considered for the lead role.

Had been the front-runner to co-star in the movie with Julia Roberts.

Penelope Ann Miller turned down the role of Fiona.

Michelle Pfeiffer was considered for the lead role.

Julia Roberts turned down the lead role.

Meg Ryan was considered for the lead role.

Winona Ryder was seriously considered for the lead role.

One of many actresses considered for the film at one point.

Debra Winger was considered for the lead role.

Kate Winslet turned down the lead role.

Mentioned for the lead role.