David Alan Grier regrets passing on ‘Ace Ventura’ and ‘Seinfeld’

David Alan Grier reflects on past casting decisions with some uncertainty.

The St. Denis Medical actor was recently featured on NBC’s Today with Jenna & Sheinelle, where he talked about why he opted out of appearing in Ace Ventura: Pet Detective and Seinfeld.

“I turned it down because the script seemed lacking,” remarked the Tony Award-winning actor and Grammy-nominated artist about the 1994 comedy. “I didn’t catch Jim [Carrey]'s vision. He asked, ‘Can I change things?’ and they agreed. He had full liberty with the material. That’s what led to its great success.”

Though criticised by reviewers, the Carrey-driven film triumphed at the box office, gaining a devoted fan base and leading to a franchise with sequels, an animated series, and a TV movie.

Grier mentioned that he passed on the iconic sitcom Seinfeld because he doubted it would find success.

“I tried out for the role of George Costanza. During the audition with Jerry [Seinfeld], I thought, [mimicking Seinfeld] ‘George, tell me about your day.’ And then I thought, ‘Well, this guy isn’t much of an actor. This isn’t funny at all. It’s not going to make it,’” he said, sharing his initial reaction.

He humorously added: “Well ... wrong again! Missed the opportunity on that one.”

The NBC series, known for its "show about nothing" concept, continued for nearly ten years from 1989 to 1998. Jason Alexander eventually landed the part of the anxious and troubled Costanza.

Nevertheless, Grier returned to television with In Living Color and took on a role in St. Denis Medical, a hospital-themed mockumentary now in its second season.

With Season 3 already in the pipeline, Grier plays Ron, a cynical emergency room doctor.