In a recent reflection on Ray Liotta’s legendary role in “Goodfellas,” Alec Baldwin shared his thoughts on how losing out on the character of Henry Hill turned out to be a blessing. Liotta’s portrayal of the morally ambiguous mobster has solidified itself as a classic, with fans continuously drawn to the film even decades later. Liotta himself expressed the timeless impact of the film in a past interview, noting that generations of new fans recognize him for that iconic role.
Before Liotta took on the part in Martin Scorsese’s 1990 masterpiece, Baldwin was in the running. At that time, he was still on the rise after his role in “Beetlejuice” but had not yet made his mark in dramatic films like “Glengarry Glen Ross.” In a candid conversation with Howard Stern back in 2015, Baldwin recounted his audition experience, revealing that he had visited Scorsese’s apartment for the role. Reflecting on the lost opportunity, he later encountered Liotta at a gathering, where Baldwin admitted, “Ray, you’re the one exception where I think, you were perfect for that. No one could have done it better than you.” Liotta agreed, confirming Baldwin’s sentiment.
While it’s easy to picture Baldwin in a dramatic role, the complexity of Henry Hill requires a certain charm to help balance his darker undertones. Baldwin is predominantly known for playing more despicable characters, which perhaps makes it hard to envision him as a sympathetic figure—unlike Liotta, who was able to thread the needle of likability amidst a backdrop of crime.
Fortunately for Baldwin, missing out on “Goodfellas” did not hinder his success. In the years following, he secured leading roles that often eclipsed those of Liotta, also racking up a significant number of “Saturday Night Live” hosting gigs. Meanwhile, his collaboration with Scorsese materialized later with films like “The Aviator” and “The Departed,” both of which allowed Baldwin to prove his mettle in cinematic storytelling.
Interestingly, Liotta never appeared in another film directed by Scorsese after “Goodfellas,” a curious twist in their careers. For Baldwin, working with Scorsese has been nothing short of an honor, as he reflected profoundly on the director’s work in films like “The Irishman.” Baldwin noted the emotional weight of such projects and the nostalgia they evoke, remarking on the enduring moments that great films create.
In looking back, Baldwin’s admission about Liotta’s performance serves as a testament to the unique artistry of acting, where sometimes, a missed opportunity can lead to equally significant triumphs elsewhere. Baldwin remains grateful not only for his own journey but also for the legacy Liotta built with a role that will undoubtedly be remembered for generations to come.
