Seth Rogen revealed that Anne Hathaway left the 2007 comedy Knocked Up because she objected to a graphic birthing scene. He shared the details during an appearance on The A24 Podcast.
Rogen said Hathaway was cast opposite him as the female lead but withdrew after learning about the planned depiction of a baby crowning. He recalled that she felt the scene did not fit her brand, even though it would not involve her personally.
Olivia Wilde, who also appeared on the podcast and had auditioned for the role, asked if the decision related to the crowning scene. Rogen confirmed that was the reason given at the time and noted they had already begun rehearsals.
Katherine Heigl ultimately took the part and delivered a strong performance, Rogen added. He described Heigl as knowing what was right for her career.
Knocked Up, directed by Judd Apatow, opened in summer 2007 and earned $219 million worldwide against a $25 million budget. A follow-up film, This Is 40, arrived in 2012.
