ANNE HATHAWAY QUIT KNOCKED UP OVER BIRTHING SCENE, SETH ROGEN SAYS

Seth Rogen has stated that Anne Hathaway withdrew from the 2007 film Knocked Up because she was unwilling to film a scene depicting the crowning phase of childbirth. Rogen, who starred in the film, made the claim whilst speaking on the A24 podcast with Olivia Wilde. He said Hathaway felt the scene was not consistent with her professional brand, even though the depiction would not have been realistic. Katherine Heigl was subsequently cast in the role of Allison Scott, playing opposite Rogen's character in the film about an unplanned pregnancy.

Rogen acknowledged uncertainty about Hathaway's exact reasons for leaving the project, noting that rehearsals had already begun when she departed. He stated that whilst the crowning scene was what he recalled being cited as the reason, multiple factors could have influenced her decision. Rogen added that he believed Hathaway made the correct choice for her career trajectory. He praised Heigl's performance in the role, describing her contribution to the film as "great".

Heigl herself has previously offered criticism of the film. According to reports, she characterised Knocked Up as "a little sexist", presenting a different assessment of the project than Rogen's. Rogen indicated that Hathaway's professional judgement has proven sound across her career, suggesting her decision to step away from the role aligned with her instincts about what suited her work.