Felicity Smoak Had a Two-Scene Contract
Emily Bett Rickards was initially hired for just two scenes in one Arrow episode. Her chemistry with Stephen Amell impressed the production so much that Felicity eventually became a series regular.
NoHo Hank Was Supposed to Die Immediately
Anthony Carrigan originally signed on to play NoHo Hank for the Barry pilot, where the character was meant to be killed. Carrigan was so funny that the creators changed his fate.
Mimi Bobeck Was a One-Shot Guest
Kathy Kinney was hired for a single appearance in The Drew Carey Show pilot. Once the episode was edited, the producers realized Mimi was far too funny to lose.
Lilith Sternin Wasn’t Supposed to Stick Around
Bebe Neuwirth’s first appearance as Lilith on Cheers was intended as a one-off. She returned the following season, became a recurring favorite, and eventually joined the main cast.
Garak Was Just a Simple Tailor
Garak entered Star Trek: Deep Space Nine as a mysterious tailor in what Andrew Robinson assumed was a one-time guest role. His shady past, witty banter, and moral ambiguity quickly made him indispensable.
Elka Ostrovsky Was Only Signed for the Pilot
Betty White agreed to play Elka in the Hot in Cleveland pilot on the condition that it was a one-shot appearance. Then the show got picked up, and she became essential to it.
