It’s hard to imagine 'The King’s Speech' without Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush. Their chemistry defined the film and won a shelf of awards. But the Oscar-winning classic almost looked, and sounded, completely different.
The Writer's Original King
Before Colin Firth was even in the
picture, screenwriter David Seidler had his heart set on another actor to play the stammering monarch, King George VI. His choice was Paul Bettany. Seidler, who himself had overcome a stutter in his youth, felt Bettany possessed the perfect mix of vulnerability and nervous energy for the part. For years, as Seidler struggled to get the film made, Bettany was the name attached to the role in his mind. However, the project languished in development for so long that by the time it gained momentum, the opportunity with Bettany had passed. He later expressed regret over turning down the part, explaining that after a long stretch of filming another movie, he needed to prioritize time with his family.
The Director's Dashing Contender
While Seidler favored Bettany, director Tom Hooper had another well-known British star in mind: Hugh Grant. Grant, who famously played Firth’s rival in the 'Bridget Jones' films, was a serious contender. Hooper met with the actor, but their visions for the character didn't quite align. Grant was reportedly interested in the part, but the timing was off, as he had fallen out of love with acting around that period following a box office disappointment. It was a 'what if' that would have pitted the two on-screen rivals against each other for the same Oscar-winning role, though reports from the time suggest Grant was kicking himself for passing on it.
The One Constant: Geoffrey Rush
While the role of the King was in flux, the part of the unconventional Australian speech therapist, Lionel Logue, had an anchor. Geoffrey Rush was David Seidler’s dream choice from the very beginning. In fact, when the project was first conceived as a stage play, Rush was attached early on and remained fiercely loyal to the script for years. His involvement was a crucial element in finally securing financing and attracting other top-tier talent. Rush's steadfast belief in the story provided the stability needed to get the film across the finish line, making him the one irreplaceable piece of the original casting puzzle.
How Colin Firth Finally Got the Crown
Colin Firth wasn't an obvious choice for everyone. Director Tom Hooper initially worried he was perhaps too handsome for the role of the insecure, awkward 'Bertie'. That changed when Hooper saw Firth's raw, emotionally exposed performance in the 2009 film 'A Single Man'. That role proved Firth could access the profound vulnerability required to portray the future king. Even then, Firth himself was hesitant, concerned about authentically and respectfully portraying a stammer. After an intense rehearsal period, any doubts vanished. Seidler himself was won over instantly, stating that as soon as Firth read for the part, he knew he was perfect.
