16 Stars Who Turned Down Iconic Movie Roles

Iconic Roles That Almost Weren’t

Have you ever wondered what movies would be like if other actors had played the lead? Many big stars turned down roles that became legendary.

From blockbusters to unforgettable performances, these missed opportunities could’ve changed Hollywood. Check out these stars who almost played some of the most iconic characters in film history.

Will Smith Could Have Been Neo

Will Smith was originally offered the role of Neo in The Matrix , a role that made Keanu Reeves a legend. Smith turned it down, thinking the movie’s complex story wouldn’t suit his style.

Instead, Smith chose to star in Wild Wild West , a decision he later regretted. Keanu Reeves’ performance in The Matrix became iconic, making it one of the most beloved sci-fi films ever.

Matt Damon Turned Down Avatar (2009)

Matt Damon was offered the lead role of Jake Sully in Avatar , which went on to become the highest-grossing movie of all time. Damon chose to pass on the role in favor of The Bourne Identity .

Sam Worthington stepped in and became the face of the world of Pandora. Damon’s decision might have cost him a piece of movie history, but he still built a successful career.

Edward Norton and The Incredible Hulk

Edward Norton was cast as Bruce Banner in The Incredible Hulk . But, after creative differences with Marvel, he was replaced by Mark Ruffalo for future films.

Norton’s take on Banner was different, but Ruffalo’s version became a fan favorite in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The change worked for the best.

Hugh Jackman Turned Down James Bond

Hugh Jackman had the chance to play as James Bond but he turned it down after Pierce Brosnan. But the role went to Daniel Craig, who became the new face of 007.

Craig’s portrayal of Bond gave the character a more serious and gritty edge. Jackman would’ve been great too, but Craig brought something unique to the role.

Tom Hanks Almost Lost Forrest Gump (1994)

Tom Hanks is practically synonymous with the role of Forrest Gump, but he wasn’t the first choice. John Travolta was originally offered the part but turned it down.

The film became a massive hit, and Hanks won an Oscar for his heartfelt performance. Imagine a Forrest Gump without Hanks’ iconic portrayal.

Leonardo DiCaprio Turned Down The Matrix (1999)

Before Keanu Reeves was cast as Neo, Leonardo DiCaprio was considered for the role. However, DiCaprio decided to pass on the part as he didn’t want to make a visual effects film right after Titanic.

The role went to Keanu Reeves, becoming one of Reeves’ most defining performances. DiCaprio went on to have his legendary career in Hollywood.

Harrison Ford Said No to Star Wars (1977)

Harrison Ford’s portrayal of Han Solo is a major part of what made Star Wars legendary. However, Ford was not initially excited about the role and almost turned it down.

In fact, Ford was a carpenter working on the set before he got the role. Lucky for us, he agreed, and Star Wars became a global phenomenon, forever cementing his place in pop culture.

Jennifer Lawrence Said No to Twilight

Before Kristen Stewart was cast as Bella Swan in Twilight , Jennifer Lawrence was reportedly offered the role. She turned it down, and the rest is history for both actresses.

Stewart went on to make Bella her own, with the Twilight franchise turning her into a superstar. Lawrence, of course, went on to make her mark with films like The Hunger Games .

Will Ferrell Almost Turned Down Elf

Will Ferrell almost didn’t play Buddy in Elf . Jim Carrey was reportedly considered for the role, but Ferrell’s comedic style made the character iconic.

Ferrell’s unique charm and humor are what made Buddy the Elf a holiday classic. It’s hard to imagine anyone else playing the character.

Michael Caine Turned Down Oppenheimer

Michael Caine was reportedly considered for a role in Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer , but he ultimately turned it down. The legendary actor, who had previously worked with Nolan in several films, decided to sit this one out.

This decision opened the door for other talented actors to take part in the film, such as Robert Downey Jr. Caine’s absence did not overshadow Oppenheimer’s success, which was praised for its strong performances and direction.

Sean Connery Said No to The Lord of the Rings

Sean Connery was offered the role of Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings , but he turned it down. Connery was reportedly not a fan of the script, which led to Ian McKellen taking the role instead.

McKellen’s portrayal became one of the most memorable in fantasy film history. Connery’s decision certainly didn’t hurt his career, but it left fans wondering “What if?”

Tom Selleck Turned Down Indiana Jones

Tom Selleck was cast as Indiana Jones but had to back out due to his commitment to Magnum P.I. . That’s when Harrison Ford took over, and the rest is history.

Ford became the face of Indiana Jones, but who knows how the character might’ve been different from Selleck in the role? His loss helped Ford create a legendary action hero.

Al Pacino Almost Didn’t Play Michael Corleone

Al Pacino’s role as Michael Corleone in The Godfather is one of the most iconic in film history. However, Pacino initially turned the role down, thinking it would ruin his career.

Marlon Brando helped convince Pacino to take the part, and the rest is history. The Godfather went on to become one of the greatest films ever made.

Bruce Willis Almost Turn Down The Sixth Sense

Bruce Willis was offered the role of Dr. Malcolm Crowe in The Sixth Sense , but he initially turned it down. It was only after a few discussions that Willis accepted, and his role became one of his most memorable performances.

Willis’ portrayal of the troubled psychologist was central to the film’s success, and The Sixth Sense became a huge box office hit with a famous twist ending.

Nicole Kidman Almost Said No to The Hours (2002)

Nicole Kidman was offered the role of Virginia Woolf in The Hours , but she initially turned it down. However, after rethinking her decision, she ultimately took the role.

Her performance earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress. Sometimes, the second time around is the charm.

Curious about Nicole Kidman’s wealth? Check out Nicole Kidman: A Legacy of Talent and Wealth to find out how she built her fortune.

Julia Roberts Turned Down The Proposal

Julia Roberts was offered the lead role in The Proposal , but she turned it down. Sandra Bullock stepped in, and the movie became one of her biggest rom-com hits.

Bullock made the role her own, playing the perfect foil to Ryan Reynolds. It was a role that helped boost her career even more.

Curious how actors have shaped movie history? Discover the 15 Actors Who Shaped Movie History .

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