The Movie Star Who Couldn't Sing It
When Warner Bros. decided to adapt Gypsy for the big screen in 1962, they made a choice that infuriated the Broadway world: they passed over Ethel Merman, who originated the role of Mama Rose, in favor of a more bankable movie star. Their choice was Rosalind
Russell, a gifted comedic and dramatic actress known for films like Auntie Mame and His Girl Friday. There was just one problem: she couldn't handle Jule Styne's powerhouse score, which was written for Merman's legendary belt. Russell attempted to record the vocals, but the results were so unsatisfactory that most of her singing was dubbed by actress Lisa Kirk. Merman was reportedly so incensed at losing the part that she kept a tape of Russell's raw, undubbed vocals as a vengeful souvenir. Though Russell won a Golden Globe for the role, the film's casting remains a classic case of Hollywood prioritizing star power over stage authenticity.
The Diva Who Almost Starred in 1962
Before Rosalind Russell was officially cast, the studio considered other massive stars for the 1962 film. Director Mervyn LeRoy’s first choice was, in fact, Ethel Merman. However, the stage team had also hoped for another screen legend: Judy Garland. The idea of the iconic Garland tackling the complex, desperate Mama Rose is a tantalizing thought for film buffs. Scheduling conflicts ultimately took her out of the running, along with another proposed star for the role of Louise, Ann-Margret. The casting of Garland would have brought a different kind of vulnerability and powerhouse vocal performance to the role, potentially creating a film as legendary as the stage production, but for entirely different reasons.
Bette Midler's Long Road to Rose
Long before she triumphed in the 1993 television adaptation, Bette Midler had her eye on the role of Mama Rose. In the late 1980s, she expressed interest in buying the rights for a film version, but the show's creators, including composer Jule Styne, declined to sell at the time. Midler, whose vocal power and stage presence were often compared to Ethel Merman's, was seen by many as a natural successor to the role. When she finally got her chance in the acclaimed TV movie, she delivered a performance that earned her a Golden Globe. Her version was praised for capturing the raw ambition and theatricality of Rose, proving that sometimes the perfect casting just needs the perfect timing.
The Unmade Barbra Streisand Epic
For over a decade, a film remake of Gypsy starring Barbra Streisand was one of Hollywood's most discussed and perpetually delayed projects. The talks began in earnest around 2011, with Streisand set to produce and star. The project had the blessing of book writer Arthur Laurents before his death, who was unhappy with the 1962 film and wanted a more definitive version on record. Over the years, big names were attached to write the script, including Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes and, later, Richard LaGravenese. At one point, Tom Hanks was even mentioned as a great potential Herbie. However, after switching studios and facing multiple production halts, the project eventually fell apart, leaving fans to dream of the tour-de-force performance Streisand would have undoubtedly delivered.
The Broadway Star Who Initially Said No
Ethel Merman created the role, but many other legends have put their stamp on Mama Rose in Broadway revivals. When Angela Lansbury was first approached for the 1974 revival, however, she turned it down flat. She felt intimidated by Merman's iconic performance and didn't believe she was up to the challenge of such an overpowering role. It took a year of persuasion before she agreed, first launching the production in London before bringing it to Broadway, where she won a Tony Award for her portrayal. Her success proved that the character was larger than any single performer, opening the door for future legends like Tyne Daly, Bernadette Peters, and Patti LuPone to offer their own unique interpretations.
