According to the Chicago Tribune Strasberg was one of the starlets considered for the role of Esther.

Shelley Winters urged director George Stevens to cast her friend Strasberg, whose performance in the Broadway version had been acclaimed. Stevens went to New York, saw Strasberg in the play, wasn't impressed and chose instead to look for a newcomer.

Strasberg auditioned for the role of the 16 year old daughter which ended up being played by Phyllis Love who had already turned 30.

Strasberg was director's first choice for the part of Ruth. The studio however decided to go with an unknown.