Luna Lovegood

Saoirse Ronan: Almost a Wizard, But Too Young for the Wand!

Saoirse Ronan reflects on auditioning for Luna Lovegood in Harry Potter and the bittersweet feeling of missing that magical role!

Saoirse Ronan, the celebrated Irish actress known for her Oscar-nominated performances, recently opened up about a role that got away during her appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!. The beloved star revealed that she auditioned for the role of Luna Lovegood in the iconic Harry Potter franchise but was acutely aware that she was too young for the part. Despite this knowledge, her passion for acting drove her to take the leap and read for the role, an experience she still cherishes, albeit with a tinge of regret.

The character of Luna Lovegood, portrayed by Evanna Lynch in the films, is beloved for her whimsical personality, unique perspective, and undeniable charm. She quickly became a fan-favourite, bringing to life the magical essence that J.K. Rowling had envisioned. Ronan acknowledged that the loss of this pivotal role has “stayed with me over the years,” emphasizing how competing for such a character in a globally renowned franchise is a fond memory for her, despite not landing the part.

In her candid chat with Kimmel, Saoirse lightheartedly remarked that the audition was akin to a rite of passage for many young Irish actors. She mused that “half of Ireland” seemed to have auditioned for Luna, which makes sense considering the depth of talent residing in the Emerald Isle. This friendly competition among aspiring actors not only highlights the vast pool of talent but also the collective love for Harry Potter that transcends borders.

Though Saoirse Ronan has gone on to star in major films like Lady Bird and Little Women, she admits the Luna Lovegood audition will always hold a special place in her heart. It serves as a reminder of the dreams and aspirations every actor has, even if they don’t always come to fruition. The experience exemplifies that sometimes, missing out on seemingly golden opportunities could lead to even brighter paths.

Did you know that Evanna Lynch, who played Luna, was actually an avid fan of the Harry Potter books before landing her role? She even sent a letter to J.K. Rowling expressing her desire to be part of the films! And speaking of Saoirse, she has been nominated for multiple Academy Awards, making her one of the shining stars of this generation. Not landing Luna might have been a disappointment, but it certainly opened the door for a myriad of other achievements!