Ashley Greene’s Twilight Casting Controversy: The Height Debate Explained

Best known for playing Alice Cullen in the film adaptations of Stephenie Meyer’s Twilight novels, Ashley Greene’s casting was met with controversy among fans as she is 7 inches (18 cm) taller than her character, as described in the novel.

Ashley Greene as Alice Cullen and Jackson Rathbone as Jasper Hale appear deeply concentrated while strategizing in a scene from the “Twilight” saga (Credit: Summit Entertainment)

Fan Reactions: Ashley Greene’s Casting Controversy in Twilight

In an interview with MTV in March 2008, Ashley addressed the criticism. “Uh, that’s the biggest complaint about me actually; I’m 5-foot-5. I’m much, much taller than Alice is described, but who is 4-foot-10 anyways?”

“Well, when I read the book, I could see that, and she’s the actress that Stephenie put on her site and said, ‘This is what I think she looks like in my head,’ so that’s natural that everyone else would have her in their head as well. But I’m supposed to be playing a 17-year-old girl, and I think Rachael would be playing a woman now, rather than a 17-year-old. She’s gorgeous. But if there are sequels, I’m going to be playing this young character for the next few years,” Ashley Greene added.

Co-stars Kellan Lutz and Ashley Greene depict the close-knit relationship of adopted siblings Emmett and Alice Cullen in The Twilight Saga (Credit: Cousart / JFXimages / WENN / Chris Connor / Nikki Nelson)

Casting Alternatives: Who Almost Played Alice Cullen?

American novelist Stephenie Meyer reportedly had petite actress Rachael Leigh Cook in mind for the role.

Best known from The Baby-Sitters Club (1995), She’s All That (1999), Josie and the Pussycats (2001), and the television series Into the West and Perception, Rachael is 5’2″ (1.57 m).

Red Carpet Debut: Ashley Greene Wears Jimmy Choo at Twilight Premiere

In November 2008, Ashley Greene embraced her first major red carpet moment at the Twilight premiere with a look that balanced youthful glamour and edgy elegance. As fans gathered to celebrate the film’s debut, Greene’s ensemble helped cement her arrival as a rising Hollywood star.

Ashley Greene wore a black ruffled Ina Soltani cocktail dress, pairing it with strappy Jimmy Choo heels and delicate Neil Lane jewelry for a bold yet refined finish at the Los Angeles Premiere of “Twilight” on November 17, 2008, in Westwood, California (Credit: Scott Kirkland / INFphoto)

Lucy Hale, who later starred in Pretty Little Liars, auditioned for several roles in the “Twilight” saga, showcasing her keen interest in the series. She initially tried out for the role of Alice Cullen and auditioned for the characters Jane in “New Moon” and Leah Clearwater in “Eclipse.”

Despite her enthusiasm and love for the books, as she expressed in an interview with J-14, stating she “wanted to be part of the first movie so bad,” the roles ultimately went to other actresses.

Despite being noticeably taller than the petite Alice Cullen described in the books, Ashley Greene blends seamlessly with her fellow Cullens—Kellan Lutz, Nikki Reed, and Jackson Rathbone—proving that on-screen chemistry matters more than exact height (Credit: Summit Entertainment)

How Twilight Changed Her Life: From Audition to Stardom

Ashley Greene originally auditioned for the role of Bella Swan in the “Twilight” saga, but director Catherine Hardwicke envisioned her as Alice Cullen, one of Edward Cullen’s adopted sisters.

The filming for Twilight was completed on May 2, 2008, when Ashley Greene was 21 years old. It was theatrically released on November 21, 2008. At the time, she had no idea the film would become a global phenomenon, significantly boosting her career and financial success. As of 2025, she has an estimated net worth of $8 million.

The role became particularly significant for Greene as it was her first major acting job after moving to Los Angeles a few years earlier, marking a crucial step in her acting career.

Rachael Leigh Cook, the actress Stephenie Meyer envisioned for Alice Cullen, captures the character’s petite essence in this candid shot (Credit: Cousart / JFXimages / WENN / Chris Connor / Nikki Nelson)

Ashley Greene wore different wigs for the four movies, starting with a chopped style in the original film. She was generally comfortable wearing wigs and collaborated on the design of her short-haired wig for the final films.

“This last (wig) was a collaboration with (director) Bill Condon,” Greene revealed. “Luckily, he had the same vision I had for Alice (Cullen). This was a good way to end.”

While Ashley Greene fully embraced Alice Cullen’s whimsical, pixie-like style in Twilight, her fashion sense leans in a different direction. Off-screen, she often gravitates toward relaxed, effortless outfits that contrast with her character’s structured, otherworldly aesthetic. This shift in style reflects her evolving identity beyond the vampire saga.

From donning wigs to embodying Alice Cullen’s signature look to experimenting with diverse fashion choices in her other roles, Greene has always embraced style as a form of expression. Off-screen, her fashion sense reflects a more relaxed and effortless vibe, starkly contrasting her carefully curated film appearances.

Laid-Back Luxe: Ashley Greene’s Street Style in Distressed Denim & Suede Boots

In December 2014, Ashley Greene was spotted shopping at Bristol Farms in Beverly Hills, California.

Ashley Greene styled distressed jeans with a patterned sweatshirt and slouchy navy suede boots for a casual yet chic grocery run (Credit: Cousart / JFXimages / WENN / Chris Connor / Nikki Nelson)

The then-27-year-old actress sported a laid-back look consisting of distressed “The Looker” jeans by Mother and a Maison Scotch pattern sweatshirt.

Ashley Greene grocery shopping at Bristol Farms in Beverly Hills on December 1, 2014, after being out of town for the Thanksgiving holiday (Credit: Cousart / JFXimages / WENN / Chris Connor / Nikki Nelson)

She accessorized with dark sunglasses and a pair of blue booties we’ve yet to identify. Would you wear this outfit while shopping?

Ashley Greene completed her casual look with slouchy navy suede boots featuring fold-over detailing and black leather straps (Credit: Cousart / JFXimages / WENN / Chris Connor / Nikki Nelson)

Ashley’s skinny “graffiti girl”-colored jeans feature fading along the front of the pants and back pockets, front pocket whiskering, and distressing throughout.

MOTHER The Looker Skinny Jeans, $220

While Ashley Greene’s fashion choices often make headlines, her personal life has also been a topic of interest for fans. Beyond her career in Hollywood, she has built a life filled with love and family, embracing new roles off-screen just as gracefully as she did on-screen.

Ashley Greene’s Personal Life: Marriage, Motherhood & More

She became engaged to Australian-Lebanese television announcer Paul Khoury in December 2016. They were married on July 6, 2018, at Nestldown, a family-owned retreat near San Jose, California. They have a daughter, Kingsley Rainn Khoury, born in September 2022.

Paul Khoury and Ashley Greene exude elegance at the 28th Annual Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party, with Paul in a sleek black velvet suit and layered chains and Ashley dazzling in a sheer, embellished one-shoulder gown on February 9, 2020, in West Hollywood, California (Credit: Alberto Reyes / WENN / Instar)

As Ashley Greene moved beyond the world of Twilight, she embraced roles that highlighted her range and signaled her growth as an actress.

One standout project was CBGB—a gritty departure from vampire fantasy that plunged her into the rebellious heart of New York’s punk rock scene, both on screen and on the promo tour’s edgy red carpets.

CBGB Promo Tour: Sweet Dress, Edgy Shoes

In October 2013, Ashley Greene left the Apple Store in Soho after successfully promoting her latest film CBGB (which, according to the trailers, stands for “Country, Bluegrass and Blues”).

Too short to become a fashion model, she plays the dark-haired daughter of Hilly Kristal, the man who created the venue that ultimately gave birth to underground rock n’ roll and punk.

Elevate a sleeveless fit-and-flare dress with a sleek top knot, minimal accessories, and statement heels for a polished yet effortless look perfect for a night out

Looking anything but the daughter of the godfather of punk, Ashley opted for a sweeter and more romantic look that opposed that of her character as she took the stage to greet fans.

Ashley Greene stuns in a chic Sachin + Babi fit-and-flare dress featuring a striking leather-and-mesh design that blends edgy sophistication with feminine elegance

The actress slipped into a fit-and-flare, leather-and-mesh dress by Sachin + Babi—a dress of contradictions, given the sexy but rugged nature of the leather-and-mesh combination, contrasted with the ultra-femme, flirtatious skater dress silhouette.

Ashley Greene wore her hair up in a sweet-looking bun

While Ashley has a penchant for feminine looks, it seems the actress played up the conflicting nature of her dress by slipping into a tough-looking pair of booties and putting her hair up in a sweet-looking bun.

Ashley Greene steps out in edgy black pointed-toe heels featuring sheer mesh panels and glossy leather accents

What is there not to love about this dress? We think it’s genius, from the tiered leather strips to the geometric mesh-and-fabric patterns in front.

Oh, did we mention that, aside from all the other details, the sexy mesh back is the highlight? It’s too bad we couldn’t see it on Ashley, though.

Ashley Greene attends the Apple Store Soho Presents: Meet The Actor – Ashley Greene, “CBGB” at Apple Store Soho on October 7, 2013, in New York City (Credit: Alberto Reyes / WENN / Instar)

We’re not sold on Ashley’s shoes, however. Perhaps it’s a reference to her character in the movie?

Beyond her red carpet appearances and film promotions, Ashley Greene’s everyday style captures a blend of effortless elegance and practicality. Whether running errands or enjoying a casual outing, she often opts for comfortable yet chic ensembles that reflect her laid-back California lifestyle.

Off-Duty Style: Ashley Greene in a Floral Maxi & Tory Burch Flats

In October 2013, Ashley Greene was the epitome of summer beauty in her floral maxi dress.

Ashley Greene enjoyed a Sunday brunch with her new boyfriend, Paul Khoury, on October 6, 2013, while wearing Bvlgari Bv8113 sunglasses, a Zadig & Voltaire Sunny bag, and Tory Burch Eddie flats (Credit: WENN)

The ‘Twilight’ star shone under the sunny sky with her blonde locks. She probably woke up in the mood for something feminine because she was clad in a floor-length floral dress cinched at the waist with a belt.

The dress is undeniably stunning, featuring a garden-inspired floral print. Ashley’s hair covered the shoulder area, but it looks like the dress is a halter type. It’s spot-on for the warm weather, agree?

Ashley Greene steps out for brunch in a vibrant floral maxi dress, accessorized with a chic navy bag and loose curls (Credit: WENN)

Beyond her on-screen transformations and evolving personal style, Ashley Greene’s shoe choices have also played a key role in defining her fashion identity. Whether gracing the red carpet or keeping it casual on the streets of Los Angeles, her footwear selections reflect a blend of sophistication and effortless charm.

Ashley Greene’s Best Shoe Moments: From Louboutin to Lanvin

From glamorous red carpet appearances to chic everyday looks, Ashley Greene consistently impresses with her footwear choices. Explore some of her most memorable style moments:

Elevating Casual: Ashley Greene in Jimmy Choo Gala Flats

• Event: Beverly Hills Nail Salon Visit
• Outfit: Ashley opted for an all-black ensemble, pairing a blouse with leggings for a sleek look.
• Footwear: She completed her outfit with Jimmy Choo’s ‘Gala’ patent leather flats, adding a touch of sophistication to her casual attire.
• Read more: Ashley Greene Gets Her Nails Done in Jimmy Choo Gala Flats

Red Carpet Glamour: Ashley Greene in Christian Louboutin ‘So Kate’ Pumps

• Event: 2014 Venice Film Festival Photo Call
• Outfit: The actress donned a navy-and-white Alexander McQueen blouse paired with matching trousers.
• Footwear: She elevated her ensemble with black silk ‘So Kate’ pumps by Christian Louboutin, adding height and elegance.
• Discover more: Ashley Greene in Black Silk “So Kate” Pumps and Navy-and-White Blouse

Chic Cleaning: Ashley Greene in Paul Andrew Pumps

• Event: Mr. Clean 15-Minute Renovation Showcase
• Outfit: Ashley wore a white sleeveless L’AGENCE dress, showcasing her effortless style even during a cleaning event.
• Footwear: She paired the dress with fuchsia suede Paul Andrew pumps, blending practicality with fashion-forward choices.
• See her look: Ashley Greene Scrubs Walls and Other Surfaces While Looking Classy in Paul Andrew Pumps

Street Style Edge: Ashley Greene in Chloe Susanna Studded Boots

• Event: Casual Day Out
• Outfit: Embracing a laid-back look, Ashley combined comfort with style in her daytime ensemble.
• Footwear: She added a bold touch with Chloe’s Susanna studded ankle boots, featuring gold studs and buckled straps.
• Explore her style: Blonde Ashley Greene Loves Chloé’s Susanna Studded Ankle Boots

Effortless Travel: Ashley Greene in Lanvin Ballet Flats

• Event: Arrival at Los Angeles International Airport
• Outfit: For her travel attire, Ashley chose faux leather leggings paired with a cozy knit jumper sweater.
• Footwear: She completed her comfortable yet chic look with Lanvin’s round-toe ballet flats in smooth nappa leather.
• See more: How To Wear Leggings With Ballet Flats Like Ashley Greene

These moments highlight Ashley Greene’s versatility in fashion, seamlessly transitioning from high-glam events to everyday elegance.