Bradley Cooper is opening about the hilarious quest trying to cast the leading lady for his hit film “A Star Is Born.” During an interview with the SAG-AFTRA Foundation, he revealed who he initially pitched the idea to and how the role and script eventually landed in the hands of Lady Gaga.
Cooper explained that his journey began with a visit to Beyoncé’s lavish abode, armed with his pitch for the film. While expecting a standard meeting, he hilariously walked in on Jay-Z engrossed in an episode of “Judge Judy.” “I went to Beyoncé’s house, and Jay-Z was watching ‘Judge Judy,’ ” Cooper, 49, laughed during an interview. “I still remember. I’m not kidding. And I was freaking [out].”
Reflecting on being in the power couple’s home and the presence of Beyonce, Cooper went on to say, “It was crazy. She [Beyonce] was incredible and so was he, and we developed it for like a year together,” Cooper continued. “I mean, she’s one of the greatest people of all time. Then that fell through.” To note, Cooper initially wanted the singer to play Ally, and was told by studio executive Greg Silverman that he could have her as long as he made the film for “under $25 million.” Despite the initial setback, Cooper set his sights on the powerhouse singer Adele, only to receive a polite text declining the offer due to a busy schedule.
Just when it seemed like all hope was lost, fate intervened once again in the form of Lady Gaga. Cooper was blown away by her electrifying performance at a benefit concert, realizing that he had found his Ally. The chemistry between them was undeniable, and the rest, as they say, is history.
“It just blew the doors off of the whole place, and it was in that moment where it was like, ‘That’s it. What was I even thinking?’ And then I asked to meet her,” the actor star said.
The film, a modern retelling of a classic story, became a sensation, earning critical acclaim and multiple accolades. Lady Gaga’s portrayal of Ally captivated audiences worldwide, marking a triumphant debut in the world of acting for the renowned singer.
Despite the film being remade three times, Cooper’s remake was met with an abundance of success. Not only was it nominated for eight Oscars, but it also took home wins for Best Original Song and Best Sound Mixing.