River Phoenix was cast as The Interviewer, but died before filming began. Leonardo DiCaprio was approached to play his role, but Christian Slater eventually got the part and donated all of his earnings from the film to Phoenix' favorite charities.
Christina Ricci, Dominique Swain and 'Erin Moore' auditioned for the role of Claudia.
Author Anne Rice wrote the part of Lestat with Rutger Hauer in mind. Upon learning that Tom Cruise had been cast, she was quite disappointed and expressed concern that Cruise could not carry the part. After attending a screening, Rice wrote a letter of apology, quite pleased with Cruise's portrayal.
Cruise wanted a private set, and hence tunnels were built to escort the actors to and from the set. This was done so that the vampire's makeup effects would remain a secret.
Cruise was placed on an elevated platform during some scenes to reduce the height difference between his character and other vampires.
The scenes set on the riverfront in New Orleans (including the infamous "Chat Noir") were filmed on a false front built on the levee downriver from the actual French Quarter. The entire set was constructed around the old section of Jackson Barracks, a National Guard post.
The river scenes were done by removing such modern items as the Greater New Orleans Bridge and radio towers and replacing them with 18th century sailing vessels in post-production.
Many buildings and street lights were darkened for the filming by agreement with the companies and the city. The set was immediately torn down after the filming.. The Victorian house that inspired Anne Rice's novel on which this film is based is located at 503 Divisadero Street near Alamo Square in San Francisco.
'Stephen Rea' (Santiago) makes regular appearances in 'Neil Jordan' films.
The Interviewer's name, Malloy, is never mentioned throughout the movie; it only appears in the credits.
Johnny Depp was offered the role of Lestat.
Evan Rachel Wood auditioned for the role of Claudia.
David Cronenberg turned down a offer to direct.
'Daniel Day Lewis' turned down the role of Lestat.
For a while, the filmmakers planned to cast Sting as Lestat and having him perform the songs for the film's soundtrack. The idea was eventually scrapped.
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