Anne Hathaway, best known for her role as the iconic ‘Catwoman’ in The Dark Knight Rises, has opened up about how she secured the coveted part in Christopher Nolan’s Batman trilogy—and it wasn’t quite what she initially expected.
In a recent interview, the 42-year-old actress revealed that during her first audition, she was actually considered for a completely different role. Initially, Hathaway wasn’t being considered for Selina Kyle, but for Harley Quinn, the Joker’s notorious accomplice.
When Hathaway arrived for the audition, she was fully prepared to test for the role of Harley Quinn. “I came in wearing this lovely Vivian Westwood top with mad tailoring and stripes going everywhere,” she recalled. She paired it with flat shoes that gave off a “Joker-y” vibe, and tried to give director Chris Nolan some “crazy little smiles” to match the character.
However, as the audition progressed, Hathaway learned there had been a miscommunication. About an hour into the meeting, Nolan gently informed her, “Well, I’m sure I don’t have to tell you this, but it’s Catwoman.”
The Sudden Shift to ‘Catwoman’
Hathaway admitted she was initially taken aback by the shift. “I loved my shirt, but I hated it right now. We’re slinky,” she explained, referencing how she had to adjust her mindset and approach for the role of the sleek, seductive Catwoman instead of the manic Harley Quinn.
Despite the mix-up, Nolan was impressed by Hathaway’s performance and saw the potential for her to embody the role of Selina Kyle. The director ultimately decided to cast her as ‘Catwoman,’ a choice that would mark one of the most memorable portrayals of the character in cinematic history.
A Career-Defining Role
Hathaway’s portrayal of Selina Kyle in The Dark Knight Rises received widespread acclaim and cemented her place as one of the most versatile actresses in Hollywood. Her ability to seamlessly transition from the misunderstood anti-heroine to the femme fatale captivated audiences and added depth to the iconic Batman universe.
Looking back on her journey, Hathaway’s role in The Dark Knight Rises remains one of her career-defining moments, showcasing her talent and ability to thrive in unexpected circumstances.
