The Big Picture Derek Zoolander. Tugg Speedman. Alex the Lion. These are just some of the iconic characters actor and filmmaker Ben Stiller has portrayed over the years. Strangely enough, however, his appearance in a particularly popular Adam Sandler classic is considered a fan-favorite, that being his uncredited role as Hal L. in Happy Gilmore — a breakout hit for Sandler that is allegedly getting a sequel.
In his 2022 interview, Stiller did not elaborate on which character specifically that he auditioned for. However, according to Ralph Macchio in a 2022 Rolling Stones article, Stiller was one of the candidates for Bill Gambini and or Stan Rothenstein, the parts that went to Macchio and Mitchell Whitfield respectively. Stiller wasn't the only actor up for one of the roles, as Will Smith was also seriously considered for the role.
Ben Stiller Also Had More Time To Work on His Directing Career Close Many may forget this, but in addition to being a talented comedic performer, Ben Stiller is also a remarkably accomplished comedy filmmaker. Some of Stiller's most memorable films, such as Zoolander and Tropic Thunder, were also directed by him.