Shondaland Show Recasts Female Lead For A “Different Type”

When the networks announced their new fall programming slates at the upfronts last week, one show in particular had everyone buzzing. The Catch is a new thriller about a take-charge woman (The Killing's Mireille Enos) who can spot bullshit from a mile away, and does so professionally as a fraud investigator. Unfortunately, she's too blinded by love for her hunky fiancé to notice that he's conning her, and the series follows her attempt to track him down after he runs off, ruining her career in the process. The premise alone is great, but add in the fact that The Catch was co-created by Shonda Rhimes and Betsy Beers, and it sounds like a slam dunk. Even though ABC showed an in-depth trailer for The Catch at the upfronts, it's not uncommon for networks to recast and recalibrate shows before they go into production for the season. That's exactly what was announced today. According to Variety, the show will recast Damon Dayoub, who played the scheming fiancé, and Bethany Joy Lenz, who played his accomplice  and other love interest.  Again, this isn't uncommon, but what is unique is fact that one of the actors being recast, Bethany Joy Lenz, shared the reason with her fans. Before Twitter, Instagram, WhoSay, etc., the reconfiguring of casts during pilot season rarely became public knowledge. Now, many actors use social media sites to discuss projects they're working on, which usually has the added benefit of being yet another way networks can attract viewers to new shows.  This transparency can have a downside, though, which has also emerged from the news about The Catch's retooling. Actress Bethany Joy Lenz has a devoted fan following from her time on One Tree Hill and her singing career, and she likes to keep everyone up to date about her work. Yesterday, she posted this note on her WhoSay and Instagram accounts. 

Lenz didn't elaborate as to what she, the network, or the production company meant by a "different type," but her news still provides an intimate behind-the-scenes look at the machinations of a TV show. It will be interesting to see who ultimately gets cast in the role, and whether or not "different type" refers to her appearance, acting style, or a combination of both. Lenz's fans have also left comments expressing their distaste with this decision, although it remains to be seen whether this will deter people from watching the show. We've reached out to Lenz for futher clarification. ABC declined to comment on the matter. (Variety)