Catherine Zeta-Jones' breakout role was 'pure good fortune' after chance encounter
Pip Burley, the producer behind the 1990s ITV comedy-drama The Darling Buds of May, shared that Catherine Zeta-Jones' rise to fame was largely due to 'pure good fortune.' He discovered her unexpectedly in the reception area during his last casting session, where he noticed 'a beautiful girl' in a yellow dress. Although Jones was there for a light entertainment program, Burley invited her to audition for the role of Mariette, despite the casting director stating she wasn't on the list. Burley insisted on learning her identity, and Jones quickly impressed everyone. He remarked, 'I think we found our Mariette.' Burley also mentioned that American actors Danny DeVito, Bob Hoskins, and Phil Collins were once contenders for Pop Larkin. He first saw Jones perform as a second understudy in 42nd Street. The series was adapted from H.E. Bates' novels, and Burley created the theme song.
Key facts
- Catherine Zeta-Jones' breakout role in The Darling Buds of May was discovered by producer Pip Burley by chance.
- Burley spotted Jones in a yellow dress in the reception room of the final casting session.
- Jones was originally in the building for a light entertainment programme, not for the audition.
- The casting director said Jones was not on his list, but Burley insisted on calling reception to find out who she was.
- Jones won over the room instantly and was cast as Mariette.
- Jones had a strong Welsh accent and admitted she was not a great actress initially.
- Co-star David Jason predicted Jones would go to Hollywood.
- Danny DeVito, Bob Hoskins, and Phil Collins were considered for the role of Pop Larkin.
Entities
Artists
- Catherine Zeta-Jones
- David Jason
- Danny DeVito
- Bob Hoskins
- Phil Collins
Institutions
- ITV
- BBC Radio Wales
- Yorkshire Television
Locations
- Swansea
- Croydon
- Bloomsbury
- United Kingdom