‘I Don’t Know’: Amanda Seyfried Was So Hesitant About The Testament Of Ann Lee She Actually Pitched The Director On Other Actresses

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The entertainment industry is famously competitive for actors. With limited roles and countless hopefuls at every audition, landing a part is incredibly difficult. That’s why it’s unusual to hear about a star recommending someone else for a role they’ve been offered. However, that’s exactly what Amanda Seyfried did when she was initially considered for the lead role in the upcoming musical biopic, The Testament Of Ann Lee.

The film debuted at the Venice Film Festival this past fall, and Seyfried has received widespread praise for her acting. However, in a recent interview with Jeff McCobb of TopMob, she revealed it took her a while to feel confident about taking on the role. When asked what made her realize she had to play Ann Lee, she actually explained she initially felt hesitant about the part. Seyfried then shared her reasons, saying…

The script wasn’t really the point – the humor came from reading it and thinking, ‘I don’t quite get it.’ The characters are all very strong and capable, and honestly, that’s something I’m still working on in my own life. I’m still trying to find my own strength and confidence, so I’m drawn to playing characters I hope will help me feel more empowered.

I was so captivated by Amanda Seyfried in The Testament of Ann Lee! She plays Ann Lee, the woman who started the Shakers, and the movie follows her incredible story – leaving England to come to America and share her beliefs. It’s a really challenging part; she has to portray intense religious passion, sing beautiful Shaker hymns, and even do some wild dancing! Apparently, even Amanda herself needed convincing she was the right person to bring Ann Lee’s story to life on screen.

Amanda Seyfried didn’t just struggle with understanding her character; she also found it hard to picture the movie as a whole while reading the script, which was written by director Mona Fastvold and Academy Award-winning writer Brady Corbet. While thankful for the opportunity, she even considered suggesting other actresses who might be better suited for the role. She explained that…

The script felt like a list of potential hymns for a specific scene, with plans for movement and dancing. I just couldn’t picture it – I couldn’t imagine the music or the choreography because I felt overwhelmed by everything I still needed to do. That’s why I hesitated and started suggesting other actors who could play the role of Ann Lee to Mona.

Amanda Seyfried mentioned Olivia Cooke as a potential choice. Cooke is known for her roles in shows like House of the Dragon, Bates Motel, and the recently released film The Girlfriend, as well as the movie Ready Player One directed by Steven Spielberg.

What finally convinced her to accept the role? Although she didn’t immediately connect with the story itself, she was moved by Mona Fastvold’s enthusiasm for the project. That passion built enough trust for her to overcome her initial hesitation, as Seyfried explained.

You know, working with her was incredible. She believed in me, and honestly, I really needed that boost of confidence. But it wasn’t just that – I completely trusted her vision. She’s such a clear and driven artist, totally committed to her work and her own unique voice. It’s amazing to see, especially because she’s also such a supportive person. I just had to surrender to it, to let her lead and trust that we’d reach the top, even if it felt like climbing a huge, challenging hill.

After a challenging shoot, the movie is finally finished and will soon be shown to the public. Starring Thomasin McKenzie, Lewis Pullman, Christopher Abbott, and Tim Blake Nelson, The Testament of Ann Lee will have a limited release on Christmas Day – making it eligible for this year’s awards – before becoming widely available next month.

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2025-12-24 03:40