Greek Creator Had Different Actor in Mind for Cappie Before Scott Michael Foster
Greek creator, Patrick Sean Smith, recently revealed an interesting casting anecdote about the beloved ABC Family TV show, “Greek”. The show, which followed the lives of college students in a fraternity and sorority, almost had a different actor playing the role of Cappie, the affable but unambitious fraternity brother. In an interview on the Ministry of Pop Culture Substack, Smith shared that initially, the casting team had Jake McDorman in mind for the role of Cappie. However, everything changed when Scott Michael Foster auditioned for the part.
According to Smith, Jake McDorman was considered charming, attractive, and funny in his own right. But when Scott Michael Foster walked in, the network’s decision-makers were immediately convinced that he was the perfect fit for the character of Cappie. Reflecting on the moment, Smith remarked, “When Scott came in, the network was just like, that’s Cappie right there.”
Eventually, Jake McDorman was cast in the role of Evan, a charismatic overachiever from a wealthy background, presenting a starkly different character from Cappie. Smith shared that when they offered McDorman the role of Evan, he initially hesitated about not playing the typical dick boyfriend character. This led Smith to recognize the importance of character redemption in storytelling.
Despite “Greek” ending 14 years ago, Smith noted that the show continues to resonate with fans, especially as it streams on platforms like Hulu. He expressed his aspiration to create content that stands the test of time, akin to classic films like “Say Anything”. Smith emphasised his focus on crafting stories that evoke emotion and happiness in viewers, rather than just catering to current trends.
One of the show’s stars, Spencer Grammer, who portrayed sorority sister Casey Cartwright, has also expressed enthusiasm for a potential reboot of “Greek”. In a 2022 interview with PEOPLE, Grammer shared her eagerness to revisit the show, stating, “I would totally do another one. Are you kidding? It would be so fun.” Grammer’s character was caught in a romantic entanglement between the characters played by McDorman and Foster on the original series.
The enduring popularity of “Greek” exemplifies its lasting impact on viewers and the entertainment industry. The casting revelations provided by Patrick Sean Smith offer a fascinating insight into the behind-the-scenes decisions that shape beloved TV shows. As fans eagerly anticipate a potential reboot, the legacy of “Greek” lives on through its loyal fanbase and the timeless themes it explored during its original run.
In conclusion, the journey of casting Cappie in “Greek” highlights the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry and the critical role of actors in bringing characters to life. Smith’s recount of the casting process serves as a reminder of the creative choices and pivotal moments that can shape the trajectory of a television show. As discussions about reviving “Greek” continue, the show’s ability to connect with audiences across generations underscores its enduring appeal and cultural significance.