‘New Moon’ casting: Who should play Leah?
By Denise Martin, Times Staff Writer
Turns out “High School Musical” star Vanessa Hudgens auditioned -- or did she? -- for the part of frustrated werewolf Leah Clearwater in the upcoming “Twilight” sequel “New Moon.” Fans know that Leah, the only female werewolf in the tribe and Sam’s former girlfriend, isn’t too important at first, but becomes more central in the subsequent books “Eclipse” and “Breaking Dawn.” In fact, author
But is Hudgens the fans’ first choice? Could she be too much sweetness and light? Maybe, maybe not. Take a look at nine other actresses we think should be contending for the role...and then vote in our poll! (Jason Merritt / Getty Images)
Jessica Szohr
She plays good Brooklyn girl Vanessa on “Gossip Girl.” She’s got the look, and is age-appropriate. But can she channel her inner malice for the “New Moon” series? (Rob Loud / Getty Images)
Jessica Lowndes
Jessica’s got tragic down. Her “90210” character has been through the wringer. Bonus: She’s cute as a button. (Noel Vasquez / Getty Images)
Alice Braga
The 25-year-old might be unknown to the “Twilight” crowd, but she was tragic as a young prostitute who loses her sight in
Unlike Hudgens, Demi Lovato’s already got Leah’s sassy attitude. She loves metal music, her album “Never Forget” had a harder edge than those of her Disney Channel brethren, and she’s set to star with bona fide teen rock band the
She might be a little too young, true, but the girl (and maybe girlfriend of
Miranda Cosgrove
The “iCarly” star is also a bit young. But if you’ve watched her Nickelodeon show, she’s got the energy of a young werewolf. Not to mention the right look. A stretch, but hey, if Taylor Lautner’s going to pull off looking like he’s 26 years old, anything is possible. Now go vote! (Frazer Harrison / Getty Images)
