Carroll Baker auditioned to play "Judy".

Richard Beymer tested unsuccessfully for the role of Buzz.

Producer Jerry Wald had Brando lined up for a movie version of Dr. Robert M. Lindner's non-fiction work about the analysis of a young criminal. The project was shelved, but later, reconstituted with another script concept and leading man.

Auditioned for the lead role.

Kathryn Grant Crosby auditioned to play Judy.

Was considered for the role of Jim Stark.

John Kerr was considered to play the role of Jim.

Tested for the role of "Judy," the misunderstood teenage girlfriend.

Lori Nelson auditioned to play Judy.

Margaret O’Brien was one of the actresses who screen tested for the role of Judy, and lost the role.

Lee Remick auditioned for the part of Judy.

Debbie Reynolds auditioned to play Judy.

Steffi Sidney auditioned for the part of Judy, but was offered the part of Mil.

Robert Wagner tested for the role of Jim. Ironically, he became Natalie Wood's husband in the real world, between 1957 and 1962 and again between 1972 and her death.

Sam Wannamaker was the first choice for the role of Ray Fremick but became unavailable.