Drew Barrymore, who was also one of the producers, disliked guns, which is why the Angels are martial arts experts in the film. Cameron Diaz, Drew Barrymore, and Lucy Liu all went through a strenuous training regimen to prepare for their roles, working with Yuen Woo-ping, renowned Hong Kong choreographer.
Barrymore pursued Bill Murray for months to play Bosley (originally played by David Doyle on the TV series) and he consistently declined. During the Saturday Night Live 25th Anniversary Special, he sang TLC’s “Waterfalls” to Drew. Eventually he did the film but did not return for the sequel. This has been partially attributed to the offscreen animosity between Murray and Lucy Liu (an argument between the two shut down filming for one day.)
Multiple candidates were considered for the role of Alex, including Foxy Brown (who was actually cast and then replaced due to legal issues), Lauryn Hill, Aaliyah, and Victoria Beckham. Thandie Newton was also cast, but she subsequently pulled out, and the role went to Lucy Liu.
According to Icelandic singer Björk, she was offered a role as a villain but declined.
