Ever watched *Anne of Green Gables* and thought, "Where did they FIND these people?" You're not alone! The actors who brought Avonlea to life have stories just as charming (and sometimes hilarious) as the series itself.
Megan Follows: From Tomboy to Timeless Anne
Let's start with Megan Follows, our spirited Anne Shirley. Can you imagine anyone else nailing that blend of wide-eyed wonder and fiery defiance? Turns out, Megan was already a seasoned child actress before she landed the role.
But here's a fun fact: she almost didn't get it! The casting directors initially thought she was too…mature. Luckily, they saw her inner Anne shine through in a later audition. Talk about a close call!
Jonathan Crombie: The Heartthrob Who Almost Wasn't
Then there's Jonathan Crombie, our beloved Gilbert Blythe. He stole hearts with his playful teasing and that swoon-worthy grin. Believe it or not, acting wasn't even his main thing!
Jonathan was a student with limited acting experience when he auditioned. Can you picture a world without his Gilbert? I shudder at the thought. It is a testament to his natural talent and undeniable charm.
Sadly, Jonathan passed away in 2015, but his portrayal of Gilbert continues to resonate with fans of all ages.
Colleen Dewhurst and Richard Farnsworth: Avonlea's Anchors
Colleen Dewhurst, as Marilla Cuthbert, provided the perfect foil to Anne's exuberance. This legendary actress brought a gravitas and warmth that grounded the entire story. It is almost like her soul embodies Marilla.
And who could forget Richard Farnsworth as Matthew Cuthbert? He had such a genuine presence. He added such a quiet dignity. His acting career started with stunt work! He was a real cowboy before he became Avonlea's gentle farmer.
The Rest of Avonlea's Finest
The supporting cast was equally brilliant! Patricia Hamilton as Rachel Lynde delivered the town gossip with perfect comedic timing. She was so memorable as the nosy neighbor!
And Marilyn Lightstone as Miss Stacy, Anne's inspiring teacher? She embodied the progressive spirit of education. The roles were so perfectly casted!
It is not only about the lead actors; it’s the collective magic that made *Anne of Green Gables* so special. All of them brought authenticity and depth to the screen.
More Than Just Actors: A Family on Screen
What's truly heartwarming is that the cast developed a real bond during filming. They spent months together in beautiful Prince Edward Island. They ate together, laughed together, and even got into mischief together.
In conclusion, the *Anne of Green Gables* film series cast weren't just actors reciting lines. They became a family, breathing life into a beloved story and creating a timeless classic.
So, the next time you watch *Anne of Green Gables*, remember the stories behind the faces. Remember the almost-weren'ts and the unexpected stars. That is the reason why we love this film series.
