JG, I just read that Paolo Colandrea owns a pizza place in, I believe it was Philly. A talent agent or casting agent was in the place and saw his photo, and thought he looked the part. He was paid $3,000 for his appearance. I'll try to find the article and post a link.

Edited to Add: For olivant, I've read that the cat was supposed to be Ade reincarnated, given its obsession with Christopher's photo.