Amell's Missed Opportunity: The Untold Story of His NCIS Audition Saga

Stephen Amell, the acclaimed actor known for his role as Oliver Queen in The CW's hit series "Arrow," has recently opened up about a missed opportunity that left him feeling frustrated and slighted. In a candid interview, Amell revealed his audition experience for a coveted role in the NCIS franchise, a role that ultimately went to another actor.

A Promising Opportunity Slips Away

The Audition Process and Positive Feedback

Stephen Amell, who is set to lead the new spin-off from the popular USA Network drama "Suits" as LA lawyer Ted Black, shared on the "Inside of You with Michael Rosenbaum" podcast that he auditioned for a role in the NCIS franchise. Amell recalled the lengthy audition process and the positive feedback he received from the producers, leading him to believe that he was in line to play a young Leroy Jethro Gibbs, a role made famous by Mark Harmon.

The Unexpected Outcome

However, Amell's hopes were dashed when the part ultimately went to actor Austin Stowell. Despite the promising feedback and the extensive audition process, communication from the producers abruptly ceased, and Amell never heard back about the role. Amell shared his frustration, feeling that he had been "c***-blocked" from the opportunity.

The Timing Dilemma

Amell revealed that he auditioned for the NCIS role the same week as his audition for the Suits spin-off, further complicating the situation. He had been optimistic about landing the role of young Gibbs, only to be disappointed when the producers chose the 39-year-old Stowell over the 43-year-old Amell.

The Emotional Toll

Amell's disappointment was compounded by personal challenges he was facing at the time. In a moment of vulnerability, he shared that he had received a "s***ty phone call about a personal business thing" on his way to the Suits: LA audition. Combine that with the perceived NCIS slight and the stress of being solo with his children, and Amell admitted to having a "full f***ing breakdown in the car, emotional, screaming."

Facing the Audition with Composure

Despite the emotional turmoil, Amell maintained his composure when he stepped into the audition space for Suits: LA. He approached the audition with a strategic mindset, aiming for a lighter tone and a more spontaneous delivery, believing that the character of Ted Black was supposed to be the "smartest guy in the room."

Finding the Silver Lining

While Amell did not land the NCIS role, he emphasized the importance of looking at the bright side. Reflecting on the experience, he stated, "Retrospectively, I got the job that I was supposed to get, and everything does work out for a reason." Amell's resilience and positive outlook serve as an inspiration to aspiring actors navigating the challenges of the industry.