<P> At least twenty - five treatments and scripts were drafted for Labyrinth between 1983--85, and the film's shooting script was only ready shortly before filming began . </P> <P> The protagonist of the film was, at different stages of its development, going to be a King whose baby had been put under an enchantment, a princess from a fantasy world and a young girl from Victorian England . In order to make the film more commercial, it was ultimately decided that the film's lead would be a teenage girl from contemporary America . Henson noted that he wished to "make the idea of taking responsibility for one's life--which is one of the neat realizations a teenager experiences--a central thought of the film ." </P> <P> Auditions for the lead role of Sarah began in England in April 1984 . Helena Bonham Carter auditioned for the role, but it was ultimately decided it would be better to cast an American actress . Monthly auditions were held in the U.S. until January 1985, and Jane Krakowski, Yasmine Bleeth, Sarah Jessica Parker, Marisa Tomei, Laura Dern, Ally Sheedy, Maddie Corman, and Mia Sara all auditioned for the role . Of these, Krakowski, Sheedy and Corman were considered to be the top candidates . 14 - year - old actress Jennifer Connelly was ultimately chosen to play Sarah after her audition on January 29, 1985, "won Jim (Henson) over" and led him to cast her within a week . According to Henson, Connelly was chosen as she "could act that kind of dawn - twilight time between childhood and womanhood ." Connelly moved to England in February 1985 in advance of the film's rehearsals, which began in March . Discussing her understanding of her role with Elle, Connelly said that the film is about "a young girl growing out of her childhood, who is just now becoming aware of the responsibilities that come with growing up ." </P> <P> The character of Jareth also underwent some significant developments during the early stages of pre-production . According to Henson he was originally meant to be another puppet creature in the same vein as his goblin subjects . Henson eventually decided he wanted a big, charismatic star to play the Goblin King, and decided to pursue a musician for the role . Sting, Prince, Mick Jagger, and Michael Jackson were considered for the part; however, it was ultimately decided that David Bowie would be the most suitable choice . </P>

How old was david bowie when he was in labyrinth