Playing the role of Billy Nolan in “Carrie,” the easily influenced boyfriend to the vindictive Chris, John Travolta proved his talent early on. Billy Nolan is primarily known for his involvement in the vile prank that unfolds during prom night, where Carrie White is humiliated with pig’s blood. The character of Billy is portrayed as somewhat shallow, primarily concerned with dating the most attractive, yet mean girl in school and displaying a tendency to follow her lead without much thought. This dynamic is illustrated by the fact that his compliance can be won over during a rather intimate moment. Chris spearheads their scheming, and Billy merely complies. It is, however, this underlying innocence that may have played a part in ensuring Travolta didn’t harm his audition prospects, even when he appeared in his Vinnie Barbarino attire from “Welcome Back, Kotter.” Casting professional, Helberg, reflects on that moment:
“As I said earlier, he came to the screen test in makeup and wardrobe at his lunch break, and he was somebody that, the moment that he walked into the room, he got the part. He was electric, he was vital, gorgeous, the camera loves him. Just really knew how to do it. And he had that innocence that Billy Nolan had, even though Billy also was one of the antagonists, he was the antagonist that you didn’t hate.”
The association of Travolta with Billy Nolan has become so iconic that it is difficult to envision any other actor in the role. However, horror enthusiasts might be fascinated to discover that Robert Englund, famed for his portrayal of Freddy Krueger, mentioned in his documentary “Hollywood Dreams & Nightmares: The Robert Englund Story” that he had been in the running for the role. While Englund might have been an apt choice for the part of Tommy Ross, the innocence of an unassuming boy beguiled by the high school’s Queen Bee was ultimately captured by Travolta.
FAQs About John Travolta’s Audition for “Carrie”
What character did John Travolta play in “Carrie”?
John Travolta played the character Billy Nolan, the easily manipulated boyfriend of Chris, who takes part in the cruel prom night prank against Carrie White.
Why was John Travolta’s appearance in a Vinnie Barbarino costume significant for his “Carrie” audition?
Travolta’s appearance in a Vinnie Barbarino costume was significant because it showcased his inherent innocence, which was an integral trait for the character of Billy Nolan, despite being one of the antagonists in the film.
Did anyone else almost get the role of Billy Nolan?
Yes, Robert Englund, best known for his role as Freddy Krueger, was also considered for the role of Billy Nolan in “Carrie.”
What was the casting professional’s impression of John Travolta during his audition?
The casting professional, Helberg, was highly impressed with John Travolta’s screen presence, remarking on his electric energy, attractiveness, and the camera’s affinity for him, as well as his ability to capture the essence of Billy Nolan’s innocence.
Conclusion
John Travolta’s unexpected appearance at his audition for “Carrie” dressed as his “Welcome Back, Kotter” character revealed an unexpected and favorable edge, lending innocence to his portrayal of antagonist Billy Nolan. This casting choice not only defined Travolta’s early career but also contributed to the lasting legacy of the character and the film. Despite other notable contenders such as Robert Englund, Travolta’s embodiment of Billy Nolan remains an iconic piece of horror cinema history, demonstrating that sometimes it’s the unforeseen elements that create the perfect fit for a role.