18 Famous Actors Who Turned Down Big Roles
Some actors passed on roles that became huge hits. These 18 decisions might surprise you.
1. Will Smith Turned Down “The Matrix”
Will Smith famously passed on the role of Neo in “The Matrix” to star in “Wild Wild West.” This decision left the door open for Keanu Reeves to take on the role, which became one of his most iconic performances. Smith later admitted that he wasn’t ready for such a complex role at the time.
2. Gwyneth Paltrow Passed on “Titanic”
Gwyneth Paltrow was considered for the role of Rose in “Titanic” but ultimately turned it down. The role, which went to Kate Winslet, became one of the most memorable in film history. Paltrow has since reflected on this decision with a sense of peace, acknowledging the unpredictability of choosing roles.
3. Sean Connery Said No to “The Lord of the Rings”
Sean Connery was offered the role of Gandalf in “The Lord of the Rings” series but declined it due to not understanding the script. The role eventually went to Ian McKellen, who earned critical acclaim for his portrayal of the wizard.
4. Michelle Pfeiffer Skipped “Silence of the Lambs”
Michelle Pfeiffer was considered for the role of Clarice Starling in “The Silence of the Lambs.” Concerns about the dark nature of the film led her to pass on the role, which Jodie Foster then took and won an Oscar for.
Follow us for more of these articles
5. Tom Cruise Could Have Been “Iron Man”
Tom Cruise was in talks to play Tony Stark in “Iron Man” but ultimately did not take the role. Robert Downey Jr. went on to define the character, launching a new era of superhero movies.
6. Julia Roberts Declined “The Blind Side”
Julia Roberts was offered the lead in “The Blind Side” but turned it down. The role went to Sandra Bullock, who won an Academy Award for her performance as Leigh Anne Tuohy.
Follow us for more of these articles
7. Johnny Depp Didn’t Join “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off”
Johnny Depp was considered for the role of Ferris in “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.” However, scheduling conflicts led to Matthew Broderick playing the character, in what became one of his most iconic roles.
8. Burt Reynolds Said No to “James Bond”
Burt Reynolds turned down the role of James Bond, believing an American couldn’t properly play the character. The role continued with British actors, maintaining the tradition.
Follow us for more of these articles
9. Denzel Washington Passed on “Seven”
Denzel Washington was offered the role of Detective David Mills in “Seven” but turned it down, finding the script too dark and disturbing. Brad Pitt eventually took the role, contributing to the film’s success.
10. Emily Blunt Couldn’t Commit to “Black Widow”
Emily Blunt was the original choice for Black Widow in the Marvel Cinematic Universe but had to decline due to scheduling conflicts with “Gulliver’s Travels.” Scarlett Johansson stepped into the role and made it her own.
Follow us for more of these articles
11. Matt Damon Declined “Avatar”
Matt Damon was James Cameron’s first choice for the lead role in “Avatar,” but he passed due to scheduling issues. The role went to Sam Worthington, leading to the highest-grossing film of all time at that point.
12. Angela Bassett Said No to “Monster’s Ball”
Angela Bassett turned down the role of Leticia in “Monster’s Ball” due to its graphic content. Halle Berry took the role and became the first African American woman to win the Best Actress Oscar.
Follow us for more of these articles
13. Leonardo DiCaprio Skipped “American Psycho”
Leonardo DiCaprio was set to play Patrick Bateman in “American Psycho” but eventually passed on the role. Christian Bale stepped in, delivering a performance that’s become a cult favorite.
14. Mel Gibson Passed on “Gladiator”
Mel Gibson was offered the lead role in “Gladiator” but turned it down, feeling he was too old for the part. Russell Crowe took the role, earning an Oscar for his performance.
Follow us for more of these articles
15. Jack Nicholson Skipped “The Godfather”
Jack Nicholson was considered for the role of Michael Corleone in “The Godfather.” However, he believed the role should be played by an Italian actor, leading to Al Pacino’s career-defining performance.
16. Al Pacino Turned Down “Star Wars”
Al Pacino was among those considered for the role of Han Solo in “Star Wars.” He turned it down, not understanding the script, and Harrison Ford was cast, making the role one of his most iconic.
Follow us for more of these articles
17. Hugh Jackman Said No to “James Bond”
Hugh Jackman was approached to play James Bond but turned it down to avoid being typecast. Daniel Craig took the role, revitalizing the franchise with a darker, more grounded portrayal.
18. Sandra Bullock Declined “Million Dollar Baby”
Sandra Bullock was offered the lead in “Million Dollar Baby” but turned it down. The role went to Hilary Swank, who won an Oscar for her performance. Bullock later regretted the decision, acknowledging the film’s quality and success.
19 TV Reboots You Need to Watch
Television reboots are having a major moment, bringing beloved classics back to life with modern twists. Whether it’s a fresh take on a cult favorite or a continuation of an iconic storyline, these shows are blending nostalgia with new drama. Some reboots stay true to the original formula, while others completely reimagine what made the show great. Here are 19 TV reboots worth checking out for a mix of old-school vibes and fresh entertainment.
19 TV Reboots You Need to Watch
20 Amazing Stories About Famous Movie Props
Movie props can be just as famous as the films they’re in. Many of them have fascinating stories behind how they were made or used. Let’s uncover the secrets of these iconic items.
20 Amazing Stories About Famous Movie Props
Like our content? Be sure to follow us!
