In the novella, Red was a white Irish man with red hair. Leading men Paul Newman, Robert Redford, Harrison Ford, and Clint Eastwood were all considered for the part. Director Frank Darabont decided to go in a different direction, however, making Red African-American and casting Morgan Freeman opposite Tim Robbins. (Darabont reportedly had Freeman in mind for the role from the start.) The decision paid off, as Freeman earned a Best Picture nomination for his performance.

There is a reference to the original character in the film, which only readers of the novella would understand. When Andy asks Red why he’s called that, Morgan Freeman responds, “Maybe it’s because I’m Irish.” Red’s full name in the film is Ellis Boyd Redding.