Jamie Lee Curtis Almost Turned Down Freaky Friday—Here’s What Nearly Made Her Say No

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As the August premiere of “Freaky Friday” draws nearer each day, Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis play significant roles in the 2025 summer movie schedule’s excitement. The film’s popularity can be attributed to the buzz generated by Lohan and Curtis’ previous wacky body-swap movie. “Freaky Friday” significantly boosted Lohan’s career and introduced her to a new generation of younger fans, while also showcasing the Hollywood veteran, Curtis, to a fresh audience. Recently, both stars have been discussing their experiences from that time, with Curtis revealing why she nearly declined the part of Tess Coleman in the early 2000s.

Before the intense buildup to the premiere of “Freakier Friday,” JLC spoke with Entertainment Weekly about how she almost didn’t star in the famous Disney movie. She explained that several factors influenced her decision, including her family obligations, the tight production schedule (as Annette Bening had recently withdrawn), and the filming location all converging to persuade her to join the cast. The renowned horror actress emphasized the significance of motherhood both on and off screen, stating:

“Before the excitement of ‘Freakier Friday’s’ release, JLC discussed with Entertainment Weekly how she almost didn’t feature in the classic Disney film. She explained that a combination of factors, such as family commitments, a tight production schedule (as Annette Bening had recently withdrawn), and the location all played a role in convincing her to join the cast. The well-known scream queen underscored the importance of motherhood on and off screen, saying:

In my household, I was caring for a 15-year-old and a 5-year-old when we were gearing up for the original Freaky Friday production. If filming took place outside California, I wouldn’t have been able to participate in the movie. Similarly, if shooting occurred in Vancouver, I would not have taken on the role due to my family responsibilities. Managing motherhood is a significant aspect of our lives, and it also plays a crucial role in the movie. In fact, it forms the central narrative of the film.

It’s quite surprising to consider subscribing to Disney+ without the actress from “Everything Everywhere All At Once.” For many of us millennials, it’s one of Curtis’ finest performances. “Freaky Friday” would have had a completely different feel with someone else playing that role.

Nevertheless, it’s highly relatable and praiseworthy why she nearly declined riding Jake’s (Chad Michael Murray) bike. The struggle of juggling work, motherhood, and caring for young children is often underestimated. I’m thankful that in this situation, everything turned out favorably for her and her loved ones.

After her children grew up, the sequel set two decades later returned to Los Angeles for filming. It appears to maintain a family-focused, lighthearted, and playful vibe, as suggested by the humorous new Fast & Furious trailer. However, it’s not the only movie featuring Curtis that we’ll get to enjoy this year!

She previously featured in the television series “Star Trek: Section 31”, and she’s set to appear in James L. Brooks’ comedy/drama, “Ella McCay”, coming in September. To prepare for both August and September releases, consider subscribing to Paramount+, where you can stream the Michelle Yeoh-led film.

On a Freaky Friday Reflection: Lindsay Lohan Shares How Becoming a Mom Impacted Her Acting in the Follow-up Film

To put it simply, Curtis manages to maintain a harmonious blend of personal and professional commitments, no matter the phase of motherhood she finds herself in. Fortunately for us, we won’t have to miss her in either ‘Freaky Friday’ or ‘Freakier Friday’.

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2025-04-30 22:15