Chance Hotel Encounter Landed Milla Jovovich 'The Fifth Element' Role

Director Luc Besson saw Leeloo in Jovovich's natural look during a chance breakfast meeting.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 2:08pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A chance encounter at the Château Marmont hotel in Los Angeles led director Luc Besson to cast Milla Jovovich as the beloved heroine Leeloo in his 1997 sci-fi classic 'The Fifth Element'. Jovovich had initially auditioned for the role, but Besson didn't see her as the character until he spotted her having breakfast at the hotel, looking relaxed and natural without makeup.

Why it matters

Jovovich's story highlights the unpredictable nature of casting in Hollywood, where serendipitous encounters can sometimes lead to iconic pairings. It also reflects a broader trend in filmmaking towards authenticity and relatable characters, as audiences increasingly connect with actors who embrace their natural features.

The details

Months after her initial audition, Jovovich was staying at the Château Marmont with her then-boyfriend when she had a chance breakfast encounter with Besson. 'When he saw me that morning, he suddenly saw Leeloo,' Jovovich recalled. Besson's assistant told her he wanted her to come as she was, without any makeup, and Jovovich believes that's when Besson saw 'the little animal' in her that made her perfect for the role.

  • Jovovich initially auditioned for the role and met with Besson for 40 minutes.
  • Months later, Jovovich had the chance encounter with Besson at the Château Marmont hotel in Los Angeles.

The players

Milla Jovovich

The actress who was cast as Leeloo in the 1997 film 'The Fifth Element'.

Luc Besson

The director of 'The Fifth Element' who cast Jovovich in the iconic role of Leeloo after seeing her natural appearance during a chance hotel encounter.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“When he saw me that morning, he suddenly saw Leeloo.”

— Milla Jovovich

“His assistant came to see me to tell me to meet him again. I said, 'Of course, let me just obtain ready.' And she replied 'No, no, no, no....' meaning: 'He wants you to come exactly as you are!' (laughs) Luc didn't desire me to have an ounce of makeup. I think that's when he saw the little animal in me.”

— Milla Jovovich

The takeaway

Jovovich's story underscores the importance of directors being open to unexpected possibilities and recognizing potential in unconventional settings, as well as the growing audience preference for authentic, relatable character portrayals in film.