Actors That Were Almost Cast in The Notebook

1 Justin Timberlake

The singer/actor is rumored to have been considered for the role of Noah in the 2004 movie. Can you imagine JT wearing Noah's newsboy cap and growing that big beard?

1 / 6

2 Jessica Biel

Image Source: Getty / Julien Hekimian

Timberlake's wife auditioned for the role of Allie opposite Ryan Gosling, and she was devastated when she didn't get it. She told Elle that The Notebook was the movie that got away: "That's one that I wanted so badly. I was in the middle of shooting Texas Chainsaw Massacre, and I auditioned with Ryan Gosling in my trailer — covered in blood. [Director] Nick Cassavetes put me through the wringer in an interesting, excitingly creative way. But there's a million that get away. We're gluttons for punishment. It's just rejection."

2 / 6

3 Reese Witherspoon

Image Source: Getty / Jon Kopaloff

Witherspoon was on the shortlist of actresses up for the role of Allie before Rachel McAdams got the part.

3 / 6

4 Tom Cruise

Image Source: Getty / Jim Spellman

Before Nick Cassavetes (who only wanted Gosling to play Noah), came on as director, Tom Cruise was attached at one time.

4 / 6

5 Britney Spears

Image Source: Getty / Jamie McCarthy

Yet another of Timberlake's real-life love interests, Britney Spears, auditioned to play Allie.

5 / 6

6 Ashley Judd

Image Source: Getty / Beth Gwinn

Before the role went to McAdams, Judd was rumored to be up for Allie.

6 / 6