The "perfect" Jane or Edward
Using physical attributes ONLY, what person (living or dead) most resembles Jane Eyre or Edward Rochester - in *your* opinion?
I have one Jane and two Edwards:
My Jane is Ellen Pompeo. She currently stars in "Grey's Anatomy" (which I haven't yet seen), but I saw her first in an episode of "Law and Order." She is a willowy dishwater blonde who can be rather pretty or rather plain, depending on the requirements of the role.
My two Edwards, unfortunately, are deceased, but in their respective youths would have been wonderful Rochesters.
The first is Jerry Orbach. The second is, oddly enough, Johnny Cash.
Do a Yahoo or Google image search for them and look for photos of them in their younger days. Think of how Charlotte Bronte described Rochester, and I think you'll see how they both fit her vision. While I doubt that Johnny Cash could have *acted* Rochester, I think Jerry Orbach would have been wonderful --- what a shame he never got the chance!
I have been ransacking my brain for an appropriately plain-ish actress who could fit Jane, but I can't think of anyone. If I think of someone, I'll post it later.
As for Mr. Rochester, one actor does come to mind. David Suchet, best known for his portrayal of Hercule Poirot. He is not really handsome in my opinion (just like Poirot) and he is not tall with dark looks. He'll have to wear a wig though... I think he could do a good job with Rochester, because he did such a good job with Poirot. But I know we are concentrating on physical qualities only.
Re: The "perfect" Jane or Edward
Well, the person who most physically resembled Rochester for me was George C. Scott. Acting-wise he was also very good in the role. I can't think of a current actor who looks the part, though there are a couple who might do well in the role. Strangely enough, Russell Crowe might do well as Rochester and Kenneth Branagh might too.
Jane Eyre is much, much harder. Sorcha Cusack was perfect for the role. No current actress comes to mind. Certainly no American actress, given our obsession with beauty, beauty, beauty.
Censorship, like charity, should begin at home; but unlike charity, it should end there --Clare Booth Luce
Re: The "perfect" Jane or Edward
I've always rather liked the idea of Amanda Root as Jane ... especially how she acts in the early part of Persuasion.
Not sure about Rochester - will rack my brains on this one - but please, as an Australian, can I say NOOOO! to Russell Crowe as Rochester! (Sorry if I offend!) Quite like the idea of Kenneth though.
Amanda
elizzanne Registered Member
Posts: 3
(9/8/05 11:34 pm) Reply
Re: The "perfect" Jane or Edward
I think for me Michael Jayston will always in my minds eye be Rochester but another one for me is Orsen wells .I didnt like the 1944 production of Jane eyre he was in as the whole story was too altered .But he had the fiery look to him and the voice and a kind of frightening but romantic and gentle side underneath it all ...fiona
The "perfect" Jane or Edward
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