'Project Hail Mary' directors hesitated before asking Meryl Streep for Rocky voice cameo

The directors of Project Hail Mary have revealed that they were initially hesitant to approach Oscar winner Meryl Streep to contribute a cameo voice for the character Rocky, the alien companion featured in the science-fiction film.

Project Hail Mary, which has recently achieved strong box office performance and positive critical reception, follows Dr. Ryland Grace, a science teacher tasked with investigating a phenomenon known as The Petrova Line, which is affecting the Sun and poses a long-term threat to Earth.

During his mission, Grace encounters an alien from the planet Erid, whom he names Rocky. The two establish communication through a translation system, forming a central relationship within the narrative.

In one scene, Streep voices one of the rejected vocal interpretations for Rocky, contributing to a moment intended as a lighter element within the film. However, directors Phil Lord and Chris Miller have explained that securing her involvement required careful coordination and initial hesitation on their part.

Speaking about the process, Miller said: “And then we [thought], wouldn’t it be fun to get Meryl Streep? And Ryan just said, ‘She can do anything,’ and that was perfect,” before adding, “So we’re like, ‘Okay, well, now we’ve got to ask Meryl Streep.'”

The filmmakers relied on Sony producer Amy Pascal to facilitate the introduction, noting her prior working relationship with Streep across multiple projects.

Lord commented on the delay in making the request, saying: “You have never seen a group of filmmakers procrastinate longer. And then she did, and she was wonderful.”

Miller also described Streep’s approach to the recording session, stating that she experimented with multiple variations of the line and approached the role with enthusiasm. 

Project Hail Mary is currently showing in cinemas.