An example of a perfect casting isKeira KnightleyinPride & Prejudice.

But would you believe that there was a chance that Knightley wasn’t going to be Elizabeth?

And the reason had to do with her being “too pretty.”

Keira Knightley as Elizabeth Bennet in Pride & Prejudice walking around with a book in her hands.

Image via Universal Pictures

2005’s Pride & Prejudiceis not the first adaptation of this Austen classic.

The first one was released back in 1940 and many have followed since.

The most beloved is the1995 BBC miniseriesstarringJennifer Ehleas Elizabeth Bennet andColin Firthas Mr. Darcy.

The Bennet sisters, including their mother, holding each other as they walk along the field.

Image via Universal Pictures

Elizabeth isnt easily impressed by people, especially rich and snobby men likeMr.

Darcy(Matthew Macfayden), who she believes is narcissistic and looks down on the poor.

The movie also features the rest of the Bennet sisters, who each have different personalities and ambitions.

Keira Knightley sitting in the back of a cab in Black Doves

Lydia (Jena Malone), for instance, is talkative and animated.

Then theres Keira Knightley.

However, forPride & Prejudice,Wright was not initially set on giving the lead role to Knightley.

Because he deemed her too pretty to be taking on this role.

We’ve never seen this version of Knightley before.

But funnily enough, this recognition is the reason why Wright didnt want her to play Elizabeth.

Knightley confesses this during aninterview with Graham Norton.

Pride & Prejudiceis available to watch on Peacock.