The “terrifying” audition that has haunted Henry Cavill since 2002: “I was so shit”
Henry Cavill has recalled a nerve-racking audition opposite Patrick Stewart for the 2003 television adaptation of *The Lion in Winter*, where anxiety caused him to forget his lines and perform poorly. The story illustrates how precarious early acting careers can be, even for performers who later become stars.
At the time, Cavill had been acting for about three years and had already missed out on major roles, including James Bond in *Casino Royale* and Superman in a project that fell apart. He later told Stewart he had spent weeks preparing, then became so overwhelmed in the audition that he “completely flubbed” it. Cavill asked for a second audition, but the article’s supplied text ends before explaining what happened next.
- Cavill says nerves derailed an audition opposite Patrick Stewart.
- He had been acting for only three years.
- He asked for a second audition after the first went badly.
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Henry Cavill began acting as a teenager, and in the early 2000s he was still trying to establish himself. Auditions are competitive try-outs for roles, and a performer can prepare for weeks without knowing whether they will be chosen.
For the 2003 television adaptation of The Lion in Winter, Cavill auditioned opposite established actor Patrick Stewart. Cavill later said nerves made him forget his lines; he had also missed out on other major parts, including James Bond and Superman.
The story highlights the uncertainty of building an acting career: later fame does not mean early opportunities were assured. Auditions can be high-pressure moments, and one poor performance can remain memorable to the person who gave it.