Story perspectives

Seinfeld Casting Surprises: DeVito, Rock, Buscemi Considered

2/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

Jason Alexander, the actor who played George Costanza on Seinfeld, said on his podcast Really? No, Really? that several actors were considered.
Alexander named Danny DeVito, Chris Rock, and Steve Buscemi as contenders.
Chris Rock expressed confusion about his candidacy while acknowledging that Alexander was the right choice.
Steve Buscemi denied ever auditioning.
David Alan Grier confirmed he auditioned but felt the writing was poor and doubted the show's success.

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Story summary

Jason Alexander, the actor who played George Costanza on Seinfeld, said on his podcast Really? No, Really? that several actors were considered.
Alexander named Danny DeVito, Chris Rock, and Steve Buscemi as contenders.
Chris Rock expressed confusion about his candidacy while acknowledging that Alexander was the right choice.
Steve Buscemi denied ever auditioning.
David Alan Grier confirmed he auditioned but felt the writing was poor and doubted the show's success.