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Zooey Deschanel Reveals 'Elf' Role Was First Offered to Katie Holmes

Her podcast recollection highlights a scheduling conflict that opened the part to her.

Overview

  • Deschanel says Jon Favreau told her at her audition that there was no need to read because the role had been offered to Katie Holmes.
  • Then 21, she recalls simply chatting with the director, which eased nerves and left a positive impression.
  • Holmes later exited over a scheduling conflict, and casting returned to Deschanel with the offer.
  • Deschanel’s singing background informed the character, with the filmmakers incorporating musical moments for Jovie.
  • The 2003 film is widely cited as a holiday staple, with reported worldwide grosses exceeding $220 million.