You might be on "Mean Girls" overload (if there is such a thing) as the 10-year anniversary of the movie's release was celebrated the world over on April 30, but gather round friends -- for this is the greatest story never told.
The actor who played one of the most beloved and championed film characters in cinematic history wasn't actually hired or paid for his role. Yes, David Reale, who gloriously portrayed none other than Glen motherf--king Coco in all his blue hoodied-glory, wasn't supposed to even be in "Mean Girls."
Reale recalls his tale to Dazed magazine, explaining that he actually auditioned for another part in the film, but wasn't cast. Then fate intervened when the production ended up filming right across the street from his Toronto apartment, and he wandered over to see if he could watch some scenes being shot and "maybe get some free food."
What happened next would change the course of movie history forever, as director Mark Waters recognized him from his audition, and believing he had actually been hired as an extra, gave him a consolation role of sorts. According to Reale, Waters said, "Hey, I'm going to put you right in the front on this next scene and you'll have a name and everything."
"So that's how it happened. But I was never 'officially' hired," Reale told Dazed. "I never signed anything and so I was never paid. But the free lunch was great."
Reale appeared in two different classroom scenes, and though he spoke no actual lines, his character is an absolute fan favorite. We're not sure what the legal implications are since he didn't sign a release, but he definitely wanted to be in the movie. We're thinking Paramount owes him at least a couple more candy canes.
Before You Go
