Reese Witherspoon Reveals David Fincher Rejected Gone Girl Role Despite Author Support

Reese Witherspoon revealed in a podcast that director David Fincher told her she was "totally wrong" for the lead role of Amy Dunne in the 2014 film Gone Girl, despite author Gillian Flynn's preference for her to play the part. Fincher insisted on casting Rosamund Pike, who received critical acclaim and multiple award nominations for her performance. Witherspoon described the rejection as an "ego check" and acknowledged Fincher's decision was right for the film's success. She also noted that her production company produced Gone Girl, marking her entry into producing, and emphasized the importance of stepping back as a producer when necessary. Witherspoon believes Fincher's choice was influenced by the audience she brings, as she does not naturally project a sinister or diabolical persona like Pike did. Overall, Witherspoon praised Fincher's direction and Pike's portrayal, crediting them for helping make the film a hit psychological thriller.