Gillian Anderson was once under consideration for the lead female role in Syfy’s ambitious science fiction series Defiance. Though ultimately not cast, her potential involvement highlights the project’s early efforts to secure high-profile talent.
Defiance combined a television series with a companion online video game, creating a unique cross-platform experience. The story followed a reimagined Earth after decades of alien colonization, centering on a community trying to survive and rebuild.
Producers reportedly viewed Anderson’s strong sci-fi legacy from The X-Files as a perfect match for the tone and scale of Defiance. However, scheduling conflicts and other commitments prevented the casting from moving forward.
The role eventually went to Julie Benz, who brought her own following and experience to the series. The show ran for three seasons and developed a dedicated fanbase, especially among fans of genre TV.
This casting tidbit offers a glimpse into what might have been and underscores how closely tied Anderson remains to iconic science fiction properties.