Jennifer Lawrence Opens Up About Missing Out on ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’ Role Amid Online Backlash

The Oscar winner reflects on internet criticism, Quentin Tarantino’s early casting talks, and the roles she now admits she regrets turning down

Jennifer Lawrence has candidly addressed long-standing speculation surrounding her involvement in Quentin Tarantino’s 2019 film Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. During a recent appearance on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, the actress revealed that she believes online criticism about her looks may have cost her the opportunity to play Sharon Tate — a role that ultimately went to Margot Robbie. Lawrence shared that when Tarantino’s interest in working with her became public, sections of the internet reacted harshly, claiming she wasn’t “pretty enough” to portray the late Hollywood icon.

While she admitted that the story may have grown in her own mind over time, she said she strongly feels that the backlash played a part in how the narrative unfolded. At the same time, Lawrence acknowledged the possibility that she may never have been seriously considered for the Tate role and that the criticism simply spiraled online without direct connection to the casting decision.

Interestingly, Tarantino later clarified in a separate interview that his early discussions with Lawrence were actually for a different character — Manson follower Lynette “Squeaky” Fromme — a role that eventually went to Dakota Fanning, who earned praise for her chilling performance. Tarantino publicly stated that while the collaboration with Lawrence didn’t materialize due to timing and creative reasons, he holds deep respect for her as an actress. The Sharon Tate casting also sparked public debate when Tate’s sister, Debra Tate, expressed her preference for Margot Robbie, citing her physical resemblance and graceful screen presence as closer to her late sister’s image. After the film’s release, Debra later praised Robbie’s portrayal, saying the performance emotionally moved her and felt eerily authentic.

Lawrence also reflected on another missed opportunity in her career — turning down a role in Tarantino’s The Hateful Eight. The part was eventually played by Jennifer Jason Leigh, who received an Academy Award nomination for her performance. Looking back, Lawrence admitted she regrets passing on the project, acknowledging it as a decision she would likely not repeat today. Together, these reflections highlight how even major stars navigate uncertainty, public scrutiny, and difficult career choices in Hollywood — often reassessing them years later with fresh perspective.

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