With the exception of some stragglers, the final major piece of Rock of Ages casting became official last week when it was announced that relative newcomer Diego Gonzalez Boneta had won the lead role of Drew in the Adam Shankman-directed film. Which begs the question: Why not Constantine Maroulis, who originated the role on Broadway? As it turns out, the Tony nominee had one major thing going against him.
His age. "Constantine was perfection as Drew in the play," Shankman told the Los Angeles Times, accurately. "But the truth of the matter is that I cast at age, and I wanted someone who doesn't have to act 20 or 23 but actually is 20 or 23 [Maroulis is 35]. The authenticity of someone actually being that age is important."
Even the most ardent Constantine supporters can't argue with that logic -- after all, Rock of Ages is a coming-of-age story, and not something on par with The Wrestler. As for Maroulis, fans shouldn't be too discouraged: Shankman says he offered him a small role in the film. Don't stop believin', right?
ยท 'Rock of Ages' director Adam Shankman: Constantine Maroulis wasn't right for the lead role [LAT/24 Frames]