According to Ruth Gordon's autobiography, a number of other actresses were considered for the role of Maude including Edith Evans, Mildred Dunnock, Mildred Natwick, Gladys Cooper, Peggy Ashcroft, Elizabeth Bergner, Edwige Feuillee and Dorothy Stickney before Ruth was finally chosen.

Hal Ashby offered Elton John the lead role in Harold and Maude but he turned it down to continue his musical career.