The enchanting world of Storybrooke, a place where fairytale characters navigate our modern reality, captivated audiences for seven seasons. Once Upon a Time, with its intricate mythology, sprawling cast, and constant twists, was a feat of ambitious storytelling. But beneath the layers of magic, curses, and true love’s kiss, lay a fascinating reality. The journey to bring Emma Swan's quest for family and destiny to life was as complex and dramatic as any fairytale itself, especially as the series neared its pivotal sixth season.
You might think you know all the spells and secrets, but the behind-the-scenes stories of Once Upon a Time Season 6 Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes reveal a tapestry of real-life romances, alleged on-set tensions, and creative decisions that profoundly shaped the show. From casting serendipity to scheduling nightmares, these are the untold tales from the enchanted forest and beyond.
At a Glance: Behind the Magic of OUAT Season 6
- Complex Production: Weaving multiple fictional worlds, myths, and Disney characters required intricate rights acquisition and guest star scheduling.
- Alleged On-Set Rivalry: Fan speculation pointed to a mutual dislike between lead actresses Jennifer Morrison (Emma Swan) and Lana Parrilla (Regina Mills).
- Real-Life Romance: Ginnifer Goodwin (Snow White) and Josh Dallas (Prince Charming) found their own fairytale love story, mirroring their characters.
- Casting Challenges & Changes: Sebastian Stan's MCU commitments limited his Mad Hatter role, while rights issues initially delayed Captain Hook's appearance.
- Actor Dissatisfaction: Sean Maguire (Robin Hood) and Meghan Ory (Ruby) voiced concerns over their characters' development and storylines.
- Showrunner Favorites: Rebecca Mader (Zelena) was cast after impressing showrunners on LOST, and Robert Carlyle (Rumpelstiltskin) was always the sole choice for his iconic role.
- Infidelity Rumors: A guest star's brief appearance was linked to an alleged on-set encounter.
The Magic Behind the Curtain: Weaving Fairytales into Reality
Once Upon a Time wasn't just a TV show; it was an ambitious undertaking to bring the entire canon of beloved fairytales, myths, and even Disney characters into a cohesive narrative. Emma Swan's journey, from skeptical bail bonds collector to the Savior, unfolded against a backdrop of unparalleled creative complexity.
The showrunners, Edward Kitsis and Adam Horowitz, crafted an expansive fictional world that constantly evolved. This meant an immense amount of planning, not just for the storylines but for the very fabric of its existence. Securing rights for various characters, gaining Disney's approval for beloved figures, and coordinating the schedules of a rotating cast of prominent guest stars was a continuous juggling act. Imagine trying to get Cinderella, Captain Hook, and the Wicked Witch of the West all in the same room, let alone the same episode, while ensuring every detail aligned with established lore and studio mandates. It was this level of detail and ambition that kept audiences hooked and made the show a unique entry in television history. To dive deeper into the storylines that captivated millions, you might want to Explore Once Upon a Time Season 6.
Once Upon a Time... and Off-Set: Cast Chemistry & Conflicts
While the on-screen relationships often blossomed into epic romances or fierce friendships, the real-world dynamics among the cast were sometimes just as dramatic – or heartwarming.
The Alleged Frost: Emma and Regina's Real-Life Rift?
For many fans, the dynamic between Emma Swan (Jennifer Morrison) and Regina Mills (Lana Parrilla) was the heart of Once Upon a Time. Their journey from adversaries to allies, driven by their shared love for Henry, formed one of the most compelling arcs. Yet, off-screen, a persistent rumor suggested a mutual dislike between the two lead actresses.
This wasn't just idle gossip; it was an "open secret" among the fandom. Observant viewers and social media sleuths noted a distinct lack of shared photos between Morrison and Parrilla, especially compared to the camaraderie seen among other cast members. Joint interviews or appearances were rare, and when they did happen, the interactions were often perceived as polite but distant. Speculation even suggested that body doubles were sometimes employed to minimize their shared filming schedule, particularly in scenes where both characters were present but not central to the immediate interaction. Whether born from genuine personality clashes, professional differences, or simply varied approaches to their work, this alleged tension became a significant piece of Once Upon a Time lore for dedicated fans, creating a stark contrast to the powerful bond their characters eventually forged.
A Real-Life Fairytale: Snow White and Prince Charming's Love Story
Not all behind-the-scenes stories are fraught with tension. In a delightful twist of fate that mirrored their on-screen romance, Ginnifer Goodwin (Snow White) and Josh Dallas (Prince Charming) fell in love while portraying their iconic fairytale counterparts. Their chemistry was undeniable on screen, but it extended far beyond the cameras.
When they first met, their situations were complicated. Goodwin was engaged to actor Joey Kern, and Dallas was married to actress Lara Pulver. However, as filming progressed and their characters' love story deepened, so did their real-life connection. They eventually separated from their respective partners and began a relationship, leading to their marriage in 2014. Today, Ginnifer and Josh are happily married with two children, Oliver and Hugo, living out a true "happily ever after" that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the show they helped create. Their story remains one of the most beloved pieces of Once Upon a Time trivia, a testament to love finding a way, both in Storybrooke and in Hollywood.
The Unenchanted Encounter: A Guest Star's Alleged Scandal
Sometimes, the drama behind the scenes can be far less charming. The early days of Once Upon a Time saw a brief appearance by actor Tom Ellis as the original Robin Hood. While the character eventually became a significant figure in Regina's life, Ellis did not return. The reason for his departure has long been a topic of speculation, and one rumor suggests a rather scandalous behind-the-scenes incident.
According to accusations made by Ellis's ex-wife, Tamzin Outhwaite, Ellis was allegedly involved in an encounter with co-star Emilie De Ravin, who played Belle on the show. This alleged infidelity on set occurred during Ellis's brief tenure. While neither Ellis nor De Ravin have publicly confirmed or denied these specific allegations, Tom Ellis did not return to the series, and the role of Robin Hood was later recast with Sean Maguire. This incident, if true, would have undoubtedly caused considerable ripples behind the scenes and ultimately led to a pivotal character being played by a different actor for the remainder of his storyline.
Character Journeys & Creative Hurdles: What Could Have Been
The fluid nature of television production means that even the best-laid plans for beloved characters can change due to various real-world factors, from scheduling conflicts to rights issues.
The Mad Hatter's Fading Act: Sebastian Stan and the MCU
One of the most memorable early guest appearances in Once Upon a Time was Sebastian Stan as Jefferson, The Mad Hatter. His performance in the Season 1 episode "Hat Trick" was lauded by fans and critics alike, hinting at a much larger role for the enigmatic character. And indeed, the showrunners initially envisioned Jefferson becoming a more permanent fixture in Storybrooke.
However, fate had other plans for Stan. His career was rapidly ascending, primarily due to his commitments to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) as Bucky Barnes/The Winter Soldier. As the MCU expanded, Stan's schedule became increasingly packed, making it impossible for him to commit to a demanding television series like Once Upon a Time on a long-term basis. This conflict ultimately prevented Jefferson from returning as a regular character, much to the disappointment of fans who adored his unique blend of charm and madness. Adding another layer to this, Stan's growing MCU success and subsequent demanding schedule are rumored to have contributed to the end of his real-life relationship with co-star Jennifer Morrison (Emma Swan), which lasted from 2012 to 2013, due to the practical challenges of distance and conflicting work commitments.
Hook's Delayed Arrival: Rights, Visions, and True Love
It's hard to imagine Once Upon a Time without the roguish charm of Captain Killian "Hook" Jones, who quickly became a fan favorite and Emma Swan's eventual true love. However, according to showrunners Eddie Kitsis and Adam Horowitz, Hook was originally intended to be an original cast member from Season One.
The major hurdle? Acquiring the rights to J.M. Barrie's iconic character proved far more challenging and time-consuming than anticipated. The intricate legalities surrounding such a well-known literary figure meant that Hook's introduction had to be delayed. Despite the initial setbacks, Kitsis and Horowitz always knew the direction they wanted to take with the character. When Hook finally made his debut in Season Two, he was meticulously crafted, and his destiny as Emma Swan's true love was a narrative pillar the showrunners had envisioned from the very beginning. This long-term planning, despite the legal detours, ultimately paid off in one of the show's most beloved pairings.
Robin Hood's Frustrations: Sean Maguire's Character Critique
After Tom Ellis's departure, the role of Robin Hood was recast with Sean Maguire, who quickly endeared himself to fans as Regina Mills's significant love interest. However, Maguire himself was openly critical of the show's handling of his character. He voiced his unhappiness with what he perceived as an uneven character focus.
Maguire felt that Robin Hood, despite being a beloved literary figure, became primarily a plot device or merely a love interest for Regina, lacking substantial development or storylines independent of her. He expressed frustration that Robin was often relegated to the background, his heroic potential unexplored. The actor was also particularly critical of his character's brutal and unceremonious death at the hands of Hades in Season 5. For Maguire, it felt like an abrupt and unsatisfying end for a character who deserved more agency and a more impactful narrative arc, reflecting a common challenge in ensemble shows where some characters inevitably receive less attention.
Ruby's Vanishing Act: Meghan Ory's Unused Potential
Another character whose journey took an unexpected turn was Ruby Lucas, better known as Little Red Riding Hood, played by Meghan Ory. Initially, Ruby was a significant presence in Storybrooke, with a compelling storyline centered around her wolf curse. She was even promoted to a series regular in Season Two, signaling plans for an expanded role and more profound character development.
However, halfway through Season Two, these plans dramatically changed. Ruby's presence on the show dwindled significantly, and she was largely absent from major storylines. This abrupt shift led to Ory's departure from the series, as she felt there was no longer a substantial storyline for her character to explore. She would only return for a handful of episodes in later seasons, much to the disappointment of fans who had hoped to see more of the spirited and complex Red Riding Hood. It’s a classic example of how creative directions can pivot, sometimes leaving promising characters underdeveloped.
Casting Magic: From LOST to Rumpelstiltskin
Sometimes, the perfect actor for a role comes from an unexpected place, or is known from the very beginning. The casting choices on Once Upon a Time often reveal deeper connections and long-held visions by the showrunners.
LOST Connection: Rebecca Mader as Zelena the Wicked Witch
Before they plunged audiences into the fairytale world, Edward Kitsis and Adam Horowitz were instrumental in another complex, character-driven series: LOST. It was there that they encountered actress Rebecca Mader, who played the enigmatic Charlotte Lewis. Her performance clearly left a lasting impression.
When it came time to introduce Zelena, The Wicked Witch of the West, Kitsis and Horowitz knew exactly who they wanted. They created the character specifically with Rebecca Mader in mind, directly attributing their decision to their positive experience working with her on LOST. Mader joined Once Upon a Time in Season Three as a seasonal antagonist and quickly became a fan favorite. Her captivating portrayal of the complex, often sympathetic villain led to her promotion to a main character, proving that sometimes, the best casting decisions are born from pre-existing professional relationships and mutual respect.
The Unquestionable Rumpelstiltskin: Robert Carlyle's Inevitable Role
Few characters on Once Upon a Time are as iconic and integral to the show's mythology as Rumpelstiltskin, also known as Mr. Gold. His menacing charm, tragic backstory, and unpredictable nature made him a central figure from the pilot episode. What many don't realize is that the showrunners had only one actor in mind for the role from the very beginning: Robert Carlyle.
Kitsis and Horowitz envisioned no one else for the part. Carlyle's unique ability to blend malevolence with vulnerability, and his captivating screen presence, made him the perfect fit for the twisted yet tragic character. This unwavering vision meant that the role was essentially written for him. Carlyle not only lived up to their expectations but exceeded them, delivering a performance that became one of the most celebrated aspects of the series. He remained one of the only original cast members until the show's final season, a testament to his undeniable connection to the role and the showrunners' initial conviction.
The Enduring Enchantment
From the complex web of fairytales that required meticulous rights acquisition to the fascinating personal dynamics among the cast, the journey of Once Upon a Time was rich with stories both on and off the screen. These behind-the-scenes insights, particularly those surrounding Once Upon a Time Season 6 Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes, don't just offer juicy gossip; they provide a deeper appreciation for the immense effort, passion, and sometimes, the sheer human drama that goes into creating a beloved television series.
Knowing the creative struggles, the serendipitous castings, and even the alleged tensions can transform a rewatch into a richer, more nuanced experience. You might spot subtle glances, appreciate a challenging character arc more fully, or marvel at the chemistry that defied real-world friction. Once Upon a Time was, at its core, a story about belief and the power of fairytales in our lives. And just like those fairytales, its true magic often lay not just in the happily-ever-afters, but in the journeys taken and the secrets revealed along the way.