Jennifer Garner reveals how she campaigned for 'The Last Thing He Told Me'

Jennifer Garner has said she “stayed up all night” writing letters in a bid to be cast as Hannah Hall in Apple TV+’s The Last Thing He Told Me, revealing she was determined to play the role after reading the novel.

The actress, 53, shared the story at a Los Angeles book signing on January 15, celebrating author Laura Dave’s sequel, The First Time I Saw Him. 

Garner said she felt an immediate connection to the character when she first read Dave’s 2021 bestseller, even though another actor had already been cast.

“I almost couldn’t bear it,” Garner said, recalling her reaction. “I hadn’t wanted to play a role that badly in a really, really long time.”

When the original casting fell through, Garner said she still believed her chances were slim. Undeterred, she spent the night writing letters directly pleading her case.

“I was basically begging to have the opportunity,” she said, explaining that she referenced the book and her connection to the character.

Dave interrupted Garner during the event to say the decision had been clear. “Everyone wanted you,” the author said, calling the casting a “miracle.”

Garner responded candidly, noting the vulnerability of the moment. “From the place of being a 40-something actress, maybe I was 50, you go ahead and write the letter,” she said, adding that the role ultimately gave her renewed purpose.

Reflecting on the series, Garner said she felt grateful for the cast and creative team, including Angourie Rice, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Rita Wilson, and Judy Greer.

“It’s truly an honor,” she said. “I owe you everything — except my kids.”

Season two of The Last Thing He Told Me premieres Feb. 20 on Apple TV+.