'Mamma Mia!' Casting Directors Reveal 17 Actresses Who Auditioned for Amanda Seyfried's Role of Sophie, Including Three Stars Who Turned It Down

Gemma Arterton

“Gemma Arterton was a complete newbie who had just signed with an agent I knew, so I brought her in to meet Phyllida. She’s a very strong soprano, but she looked nothing like Meryl,” casting director Priscilla John told Vogue.

Carey Mulligan

“One that stands out is Carey Mulligan—I’d just cast her in a film called And When Did You Last See Your Father? and thought she was incredible. She got quite far before we ultimately chose Amanda, who could not only sing but also looked so much like Meryl,” casting director Priscilla John told Vogue.