It’s hard to imagine Superbad without Christopher Mintz-Plasse as the unforgettable Fogell, better known by the iconic fake ID that simply read “McLovin.” Released in 2007, the comedy has since become a fan favorite, chronicling the misadventures of two high school friends, Seth and Evan, as they navigate romance, parties, and the universal awkwardness of adolescence. Jonah Hill played the hot-headed, hormonal Seth, while Michael Cera took on the role of the more anxious and introverted Evan.

Together, the duo’s quest to obtain alcohol to attend a house party hosted by classmate Jules, portrayed by Emma Stone, formed the backbone of the story, while an ensemble cast—including Seth Rogen and Bill Hader as bumbling cops—added layers of humor and chaos. But behind the scenes, the film’s production included tension that would almost prevent Mintz-Plasse from stepping into the role that would define his career. The story begins with Mintz-Plasse’s open audition, a nerve-wracking experience for a 17-year-old high school student with little professional acting experience. Despite impressing many with his natural talent, his audition rubbed Jonah Hill the wrong way.