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Jason Alexander Reveals Other Actors Considered for George Costanza Role on Seinfeld
Chris Rock, Danny DeVito, and Rosie O'Donnell were among the notable names in the running for the iconic character.
Published on Feb. 18, 2026
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In a recent podcast episode, actor Jason Alexander, who played George Costanza on the hit sitcom Seinfeld, shared that several other notable actors were considered for the role, including Chris Rock, Danny DeVito, Paul Shaffer, and Rosie O'Donnell. Alexander also noted that he initially thought fellow actor Larry Miller would get the part since he was friends with the show's star, Jerry Seinfeld.
Why it matters
The revelation that such a diverse group of actors were in the running for the role of George Costanza provides an interesting behind-the-scenes look at the casting process for one of television's most iconic characters. It also highlights how the show's creators were open to considering a range of comedic talents before ultimately landing on Jason Alexander's now-legendary portrayal.
The details
During the podcast, Alexander shared that in addition to Chris Rock, Danny DeVito, Paul Shaffer, and Rosie O'Donnell, actor Steve Buscemi was also considered for the role of George Costanza. Alexander initially thought his friend Larry Miller would get the part since Miller was acquainted with Seinfeld, the show's star and co-creator. However, Alexander ended up landing the role and went on to play the neurotic, short-tempered George for the entirety of Seinfeld's nine-season run.
- Seinfeld premiered in 1989 and ran for 9 seasons until 1998.
The players
Jason Alexander
The actor who played the role of George Costanza on the hit sitcom Seinfeld.
Chris Rock
A comedian and actor who was considered for the role of George Costanza on Seinfeld.
Danny DeVito
An actor who was considered for the role of George Costanza on Seinfeld.
Rosie O'Donnell
A comedian and actress who was considered for the role of George Costanza on Seinfeld.
Steve Buscemi
An actor who was considered for the role of George Costanza on Seinfeld.
What they’re saying
“I know some of the people that they either offered the role to or —”
— Jason Alexander, Actor (People.com)
“The only other one that I remember because it was so off the beaten path was Buscemi — Steve Buscemi”
— Jennifer Keishin Armstrong, Author (People.com)
“Initially, I had concerns that a reunion show wouldn't be a good thing to do, or a fun thing to do. We hadn't worked as a group in 10 years. So we're all 10 years older.”
— Jason Alexander, Actor (People.com)
“The ensemble feeling that we had, the affection that we had for each other, it was immediate. The time tunnel.”
— Jason Alexander, Actor (People.com)
The takeaway
The revelation that a diverse group of comedic talents were considered for the iconic role of George Costanza on Seinfeld highlights the show's commitment to finding the perfect actor to bring the neurotic character to life. While Jason Alexander ultimately landed the part and made it his own, the fact that other notable names like Chris Rock, Danny DeVito, and Rosie O'Donnell were in the running underscores the depth of the casting process and the show's desire to find the best possible fit.
