Zooey Deschanel recently disclosed that the cast of the popular Fox comedy *New Girl* had to actively campaign for Lamorne Morris to be cast as Winston Bishop.

Deschanel, speaking on the Zach Sang Show, stated that while it's now hard to imagine *New Girl* without Morris, his casting was not initially a certainty.

This insight reveals the behind-the-scenes efforts that shaped one of the show's beloved characters.

Morris had originally auditioned for the character of Coach.

However, when the role of Winston, a former basketball player and childhood friend of Nick's, was created, Deschanel felt Morris was the ideal candidate.

She recalled saying, "What about Lamorne?

That guy is so good," after numerous readings with other actors for the part.

Deschanel noted that her co-stars, Jake Johnson and Max Greenfield, also supported Morris, having known him from the initial audition process for other roles.

Despite this internal support, there was hesitation from the network and studio.

Deschanel explained that the cast collectively wrote to various executives, advocating for Morris.

"Everyone was writing to somebody different," she said, emphasizing their unified effort.

"We think Lamorne is the best, best, best for this character, and [would be] such a great addition.

I was like, I can’t see anyone else playing this part."

*New Girl*, created by Elizabeth Meriwether, aired from 2011 to 2018.

The series starred Deschanel, Morris, Johnson, Greenfield, and Hannah Simone.

Lamorne Morris has since gone on to win an Emmy in 2024 for his role as Deputy Witt Farr in FX's *Fargo*.