Netflix’s You: 7 actors who could have stepped into Joe Goldberg’s shoes (or should we say, Stalker’s shoes?)

So, You is ending after the fifth season, and we’ve all been through the emotional rollercoaster that is Joe Goldberg, brought to life by Penn Badgley. But what if the role had been played by someone else? We’ve cooked up some hilarious alternatives for who could have replaced Penn in those very creepy, yet oddly charming, shoes. Buckle up for a wild ride through potential Joes with their own unique flair!

 

Ryan Reynolds

Ryan Reynolds as Joe Goldberg? Oh, the possibilities! Known for his witty humor and effortless charm, Reynolds could have turned Joe’s dark antics into a laugh-out-loud romantic comedy. Picture him breaking the fourth wall with a cheeky grin while whispering, “I’m just really, really into you… like, I know your coffee order and where you get your haircut.” His signature smirk would make even the most uncomfortable moments feel like a hilarious quip.

 

Jim Carrey

If Jim Carrey took on Joe Goldberg, expect a full-blown comedy of errors. His expressive face and over-the-top antics could transform Joe’s sinister side into an absurd sketch. Imagine Carrey’s wild eyes and rubbery expressions as he’d say, “Alrighty then, I’m just going to pop by your place to make sure you’re okay. And don’t worry about the inflatable dinosaur I left in your backyard. Totally not creepy!”

 

Will Smith

Will Smith’s charisma could have made Joe Goldberg’s stalking seem like a grand romantic gesture, albeit an invasive one. With his smooth moves and affable nature, Smith might have delivered lines like, “Hey, I’m not following you; I’m just making sure you’re safe. And also, I’ve memorized your favorite pizza toppings. How’s that for dedication?”

 

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson

Dwayne Johnson as Joe Goldberg? That’s a whole new level of intensity. With his imposing physique and deep, soothing voice, he’d bring a unique gravitas to Joe’s character. Imagine The Rock saying, “I’m here to protect you. Also, I might have a personal stake in your every move. Let’s not overthink it. Flexing is part of my charm.”

 

Chris Pratt

Chris Pratt’s goofy, everyman appeal could make Joe Goldberg seem like a bumbling, well-meaning guy who just happens to know a bit too much. “I swear, I’m not stalking you. I just have a great memory and a tendency to remember the little things, like your favorite sandwich shop and your cat’s name. Totally normal, right?”

 

Keanu Reeves

Keanu Reeves would bring an enigmatic and zen-like quality to Joe Goldberg. His calm demeanor and intense gaze would make Joe’s actions feel like part of a deep, existential quest. Imagine Keanu delivering lines like, “What is love? Is it the profound connection between two souls, or just a matter of knowing your daily routine? Either way, I’m here to explore it.”

 

John C. Reilly

John C. Reilly’s endearing quirkiness could make Joe Goldberg’s darker moments strangely charming. With his wide-eyed sincerity and offbeat humor, Reilly might turn Joe’s unsettling behavior into something almost lovable. “I’m just here to be your friend… and maybe keep an eye on your schedule. Don’t mind the cardboard cutout of myself I’ve set up in your living room. It’s for, uh, security.”

 

So there you have it—seven actors who could have given Joe Goldberg a completely different flavor. While Penn Badgley has definitely made the role unforgettable, it’s fun to imagine how these stars might have brought their own unique spins to the character. Here’s to hoping the final season wraps up Joe’s story in a memorable way, and maybe even gives a nod to these fantastically bizarre alternatives!