Frankie Avalon's Near-Miss: How "Teen Angel" Almost Missed Out on His Iconic "Grease" Moment

Frankie Avalon initially hesitated to join "Grease" due to concerns about his appearance being too similar to Elvis Presley, but production executives agreed to change the character's look, making his memorable performance possible.

Frankie Avalon, known for his iconic role as "Teen Angel" in the beloved musical "Grease," almost missed out on his star-making moment due to a striking physical resemblance to another music legend: Elvis Presley.

During an interview on the "Our Way with Paul Anka and Skip Bronson" podcast, Avalon revealed that he was initially approached for the role after seeing the Broadway production of "Grease" in the early 1970s. However, upon reading the script, he had reservations about the character's similarities to Elvis, specifically the long sideburns and black attire.

Avalon expressed his concerns to production executives, stating that his personal style and vocal approach did not align with the portrayal of Teen Angel as an Elvis impersonator. To his surprise, the executives were willing to accommodate his feedback.

They agreed to differentiate the film's portrayal from the stage version by dressing the character in white instead of black, a significant change that addressed Avalon's concerns. This compromise allowed him to embrace the role and make it his own.

Avalon was not the only "Grease" star who initially hesitated to join the production. Olivia Newton-John, who played Sandy, had reservations after a disappointing experience with her previous film, "Toomorrow."

Newton-John feared repeating the same mistakes and requested a screen test, a rare occurrence in the industry. Despite her initial skepticism, she eventually accepted the role after meeting John Travolta and being persuaded by the strength of her character.

"Grease," released in 1978, became an instant cultural phenomenon, with its catchy songs, memorable characters, and groundbreaking dance routines. Avalon's "Beauty School Dropout" number, in which he descends a grand staircase, has become one of the most recognizable moments in cinematic history.

"Of all the films that I've made, I think the only film that has been outstanding in this world is 'Grease'," Avalon said, reflecting on the film's enduring popularity. "Huge all over the world. 'Beautiful School Dropout' and me coming down the stairs — around the world, they know that."

Avalon's portrayal of Teen Angel, albeit almost missed, has become an iconic part of "Grease" lore. His unique interpretation and the willingness of the filmmakers to adapt the character's appearance contributed to the film's timeless appeal.