Sally Field refused this iconic role, reveals it was never her ‘cup of tea’

Sally Field almost landed a role in one of the most iconic movies in history and is finally revealing why she ended up saying no.

During an interview with Parade, the actress explained why she said no to the role of Annie Paradis in “The First Wives Club.” According to the Academy Award winner, she said no because she had an issue with the plot of the movie.

“I loved all those actors. But I did turn it down,” Field began. “I have always had a problem with older women either wanting to get a date or looking to, like, you know, have more sex with their husband.”

“I just feel like there’s more for women to say, so that was just never my cup of tea,” she continued.

“The First Wives Club” followed three middle-aged women — Annie, Brenda and Elise — who reunite after the suicide of their college friend who was abandoned by her husband for a younger woman.

(L-R) Diane Keaton, Goldie Hawn, and Bette Midler in the 1996 movie “The First Wives Club.” ©Paramount/Courtesy Everett Collection

Realizing they’ve all been similarly discarded by their own husbands, the trio forms a bond and decide to take revenge. The comedy starred Goldie Hawn, Diane Keaton and Bette Midler.

Field told Parade the musical number of the three women was another reason she has no regrets about declining the role.

“I couldn’t have done that role because I don’t sing, and they all do at the end,” she said.

Field’s attends the Television Academy’s 27th annual Hall of Fame ceremony at JW Marriott LA Live on Aug. 16, 2025 in Los Angeles. AFP via Getty Images

The role Field was offered ended up going to the late Keaton. 

“I would never have been as good,” Field told the outlet. “I mean, it was absolutely right for Keaton — not for me.”

Keaton died Oct. 11 at age 79 from bacterial pneumonia.