Linda Cardellini Reflects on Memorable Audition for Scooby-Doo
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Linda Cardellini, known for her role as Velma in the 2002 film Scooby-Doo, recently shared her experience auditioning for the part on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. At 50 years old, the actress, who had already gained recognition for her role in Freaks and Geeks, opened up about the anxieties and antics that characterised her audition process.
During her interview, Cardellini expressed her excitement about auditioning for Scooby-Doo, a beloved cartoon from her childhood. Not wanting to appear unprepared, she made the decision to embody her character fully by dressing in costume. “I remember when I was auditioning for Scooby-Doo, I was really excited because that was my favourite cartoon growing up,” she recounted.
In preparation for her audition, Cardellini set out to find the quintessential Velma look. She purchased an orange turtleneck from a discount store and borrowed a pair of glasses from a friend. “It wasn’t really orange turtleneck season, but I needed a bargain,” she admitted, detailing her resourceful approach to her costume choice. Despite her efforts to closely resemble Velma, the actress felt somewhat out of place when she arrived at the audition.
Once at the audition venue, Cardellini was taken aback by the presence of many well-known actors in the waiting area. “I went in there and saw all these famous people sitting in the waiting room. They looked great, and I looked like an idiot,” she recalled, reflecting on her moment of doubt. “I went in there dressed up in this costume and just felt so stupid.”
Despite her insecurities, Cardellini completed her audition with enthusiasm, incorporating several of Velma’s iconic traits into her performance. In a moment of comedic flair, she even removed her glasses while acting out the scenes. Following the audition, however, the actress was overcome with feelings of disappointment. “I came home and cried and cried and cried, and then I got the part,” she said, highlighting her tumultuous experience.
In a light-hearted manner, Cardellini shared an amusing family anecdote: “My dad always says he knew I would get a part if I came home crying, so I guess you have to make a fool of yourself,” she joked, adding a touch of humour to her story.
The film, which became a box-office success, was not only a significant point in Cardellini’s career but also featured contributions from a talented team, including director Raja Gosnell and writer/director James Gunn, who co-wrote the screenplay. In a separate development, Gunn revealed on social media that he had initially intended for Velma to be portrayed as gay in the original script.
Gunn noted the challenges he faced in staying true to his vision for Velma, stating, “In 2001, Velma was explicitly gay in my initial script. But the studio just kept watering it down & watering it down, becoming ambiguous, and then nothing.” This evolution in Velma’s characterisation ultimately led to her being shown with a boyfriend in the sequel, much to Gunn’s dismay.
Cardellini’s candid recollection of her audition highlights the pressures and uncertainties that many actors face in their pursuit of roles. Her story serves as an engaging reminder of the trials and tribulations that can accompany the casting process in Hollywood.
As Cardellini continues to navigate her acting career, her experience with Scooby-Doo remains a notable chapter, showcasing her dedication to her craft. Now a well-respected actress in the industry, she looks back at her early days with a blend of nostalgia and pride. With a career that spans over two decades, Cardellini’s journey serves to inspire aspiring actors everywhere.