The TV shows that almost had completely different casts - and the stars who nearly changed television history

Casting almost happened differently on several landmark shows, according to recent behind-the-scenes accounts. On NBC’s ER (1994-2009), Noah Wyle was reportedly not the first pick for Dr. John Carter; executive producer John Wells said earlier this year that a more established actor—unnamed—was thought to have the part until Wyle came in very late. Wyle’s near-miss had knock-on effects, including the likelihood of The Pitt’s later collaboration among Wyle, R Scott Gemmill, and Wells. In Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997-2003), Natasha Lyonne said she was the original choice for Buffy Summers and turned it down. The article notes she later faced legal, health, and addiction issues before returning to public life.