Four actresses competed with Kristen Stewart for the role of Bella in “Twilight,” and one was “glad” not to get it.
The role of Bella Swan in Twilight was one of the most sought-after in Hollywood at the time, with a number of major actresses vying for the part. Kristen Stewart ultimately secured the role, becoming a household name and launching her career. However, as with many high-profile roles, there was stiff competition. The Twilight saga was already a hugely popular book series when the film adaptation was being made, and many actresses wanted to bring Bella Swan to life on the big screen.
Here are four actresses who were in the running to play Bella Swan:
- Emily Browning
The Australian actress, known for Sucker Punch and Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events, was a top contender for the role. Although she didn’t land the part, she’s since said that she didn’t feel too disappointed because she wasn’t sure she was the right fit for the role at the time. - Amanda Seyfried
Amanda Seyfried was another actress considered for Bella Swan. She was reportedly on Stephenie Meyer’s radar, and although she didn’t get the role, Seyfried has made her mark in Hollywood with films like Les Misérables and Mamma Mia!. She has mentioned that, while she was interested in the role, she’s glad that she ended up with other opportunities instead. - Kaya Scodelario
Known for Skins and The Maze Runner, Kaya Scodelario was also reportedly in the running for Bella. She’s since said that, in retrospect, she’s glad she didn’t get the role. Scodelario explained that she wasn’t ready for the intense pressure and attention that would have come with such a high-profile part at the time. - Shailene Woodley
Shailene Woodley was reportedly Stephenie Meyer’s first choice for Bella Swan at one point. Despite this, Woodley did not land the role, and Kristen Stewart took on the part. Woodley has expressed that, while she was disappointed initially, she’s grateful for how her career turned out and the other major roles she landed, such as in Big Little Lies and The Fault in Our Stars.
Although these actresses didn’t end up playing Bella, Kristen Stewart’s portrayal of the character made a lasting impact, and the Twilight franchise remains one of the most successful and influential in Hollywood history.
