Lea Michele Told “Not Pretty Enough” for Hollywood

"Glee" diva Lea Michele said she was passed over for previous roles because she did not fit the "cookie-cutter" young Hollywood mold.

"I was always told I was too ethnic or not pretty enough or too much of this or not enough of that," said the Emmy-nominated actress in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter.

Michele who is up against seasoned stars like Edie Falco for "Nurse Jackie" and Tina Fey for "30 Rock" in the best comedic actress category, said "Glee" was her first call back from a television show.

She first met "Glee" creator Ryan Murphy back in 2007 through a Broadway co-star and mutual friend.  One night the two instantly connected over their shared love of Barbara Streisand and musical theater, said the starlet. 

Michele didn't hear from Murphy again until the two reunited at the "Glee" auditions. 

"I love what Ryan has done and the fact that he took a chance on me," said Michele who will turn 24 on Sunday. 

Nineteen Emmy nominations later and droves of self-proclaimed "Gleeks," the duo of Michele and Murphy might just strike gold on television's biggest and brightest night. 

The 62nd Primetime Emmy Awards will air Sunday, August 29, on NBC at 8pm EST. 

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