Sometime around 1988 or 1989, Paramount was reportedly exploring casting options for a script titled Ghost.
Among the names being considered for the role of Sam Wheat was Eddie Murphy, who at the time had a multi-film contract with the studio. While it remains unclear how seriously he was considered or how far discussions progressed, the idea of Murphy taking on the lead role suggests an entirely different vision for the film. Given his reputation as a comedic powerhouse in the late 1980s, it’s hard to say whether Ghost would have remained the supernatural romance that audiences ultimately fell in love with or if it would have been reimagined as more of a comedy-driven project.
One thing is certain: if Murphy had taken the role, the film would have been a drastically different experience, likely infused with his signature humor and energy, shifting the tone and perhaps even the direction of the entire story.
In the end, of course, the role of Sam Wheat went to Patrick Swayze, whose earnest and heartfelt performance helped cement Ghost as one of the most beloved romantic dramas of its era. Swayze not only delivered an emotionally resonant portrayal but also played a crucial role in shaping the film’s final casting choices. In particular, he was instrumental in ensuring that Whoopi Goldberg was cast as the eccentric and scene-stealing psychic Oda Mae Brown.
Despite initial hesitation from the studio, Swayze actively advocated for Goldberg, recognizing her unique comedic timing and presence as essential to the film’s success. His support ultimately paid off, as Goldberg’s performance became one of the most celebrated aspects of Ghost, earning her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress and solidifying Oda Mae Brown as an iconic character in cinematic history.
Reflecting on these early casting possibilities, it’s fascinating to consider how different Ghost might have been had Murphy taken on the role of Sam Wheat. The combination of Murphy’s comedic style with the film’s supernatural elements could have led to a wildly different tone, potentially steering the story in an entirely new direction. However, the version that made it to the screen—with Swayze’s heartfelt performance and Goldberg’s unforgettable presence—proved to be a perfect blend of romance, drama, and humor, capturing audiences' hearts and securing its place as a classic of the genre.
