Jana Kramer Shares the Character from Hunting Wives She Nearly Portrayed

The Hunting Wives nearly took an entirely different direction.

Following the Netflix show’s premiere on Monday, July 21, Jana Kramer shared on her Instagram Stories that she was very close to landing the role of Callie, which ultimately went to Jaime Ray Newman.

Kramer, 41, also discussed the audition on her “Whine Down” podcast. “I got pinned for it. It’s really difficult to test in this industry. Getting to that stage is challenging. There are so many people trying out for roles,” she explained on Monday.

She explained that being “pinned” means they were interested in casting her.

“You’re on deck. To be pinned means you’re available, they want you, and you’re holding those dates. You’re so close to getting it,” she emphasized. “[When I found out I didn’t get cast in] The Hunting Wives, I cried for about three days. I was devastated.”

“I truly believe everything happens for a reason, but that can start to wear you down a bit,” she added. “I am incredibly fortunate for all that I have. I’m currently on my fourth movie this year. I’m excited and grateful. I’ve been trying hard to return to a show after fully immersing myself back into acting. I left One Tree Hill to pursue music, and I’m thankful for that time. However, getting back onto a show is much more challenging than people realize.”

Based on May Cobb‘s novel, The Hunting Wives follows Sophie (Brittany Snow) as she moves from Boston to an East Texas town, where she becomes entangled with the influential socialite Margo (Malin Åkerman). After joining a group of wealthy, conservative housewives who adore guns and cocktails, she spirals into “a rabbit hole of obsession, seduction, and murder,” according to the official description.

Kramer revealed on Monday that The Hunting Wives wasn’t the only project she almost secured recently.

“I had a really strong feeling about this latest audition [after The Hunting Wives]. It would have been a massive spinoff opportunity for me. I was in the running and then received a text from my manager saying, ‘Hey, they’ve made an offer to someone else, so if they decline, you’re next.’ But I know this person will accept,” Kramer shared. “This actress has had her show canceled and is perfect for the role. I’ve competed with her before for similar roles.”

Kramer continued: “It’s a fantastic role and I’m thrilled for her. However, it left me wondering, ‘When will it be my turn?’ I’ve put in so much effort. I want this. I dream of being back on a show.”

Despite her discouragement, Kramer remains determined.

“I know it will eventually happen. I’m just tired of saying that. Because everyone tells me, ‘You’re right on the edge. It’s going to happen for you.’ I’ve been hearing this for 20 years. It’s been 15 years since I left One Tree Hill,” she reflected. “People experience this, but it’s okay for us to not feel okay sometimes.”