Back in Time Today
Hollywood is full of “what if?” stories—especially when A-list actors turn down legendary roles that later become career-defining (and bank-account-filling) hits for others. From superheroes to sci-fi saviors, here are 23 stars who passed on iconic parts, leaving fortunes and fame on the table for their peers.
1. Will Smith – Neo in The Matrix
Before The Matrix redefined sci-fi, Will Smith was offered the role of Neo. He declined, finding the concept confusing. Instead, he starred in Wild Wild West, which was less successful. Keanu Reeves took the part, leading to a legacy-defining role and financial success. Smith later admitted he would have “messed up” the film. Reeves’ portrayal became iconic and cemented his status as a sci-fi legend.
2. Matt Damon – Jake Sully in Avatar
Matt Damon passed on the lucrative role of Jake Sully in Avatar due to scheduling conflicts. James Cameron had offered him 10% of the film’s earnings. Sam Worthington, relatively unknown at the time, filled the role, and Avatar became a monumental success. Damon missed out on potentially $250 million. Despite this, Damon continues to have a successful career, yet wonders about that missed opportunity.
3. Sean Connery – Gandalf in Lord of the Rings
Sean Connery was approached to play Gandalf in the epic Lord of the Rings series, with a tempting offer of $10 million per film plus 15% of the box office. However, Connery turned it down, claiming he “did not understand the script.” Ian McKellen ultimately took on the role, earning critical acclaim and a lasting legacy in fantasy cinema. Connery’s decision left him out of a cultural phenomenon.
4. John Travolta – Forrest Gump in Forrest Gump
John Travolta was initially considered for the title role in Forrest Gump, but he chose to do Pulp Fiction instead. While Pulp Fiction revived his career, Forrest Gump became a cultural touchstone, with Tom Hanks winning an Oscar for his performance. Hanks’ portrayal of Gump became iconic, contributing significantly to his career and wealth, while Travolta’s choice led to a different path.
5. Emily Blunt – Black Widow in Iron Man 2
Emily Blunt was initially cast as Black Widow in Iron Man 2 but had to drop out due to scheduling conflicts with Gulliver’s Travels. Scarlett Johansson stepped into the role, eventually becoming one of the highest-grossing actresses of all time thanks to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Blunt’s decision cost her a pivotal role, but her career remains strong with other notable performances.
6. Christina Applegate – Elle Woods in Legally Blonde
Christina Applegate was offered the role of Elle Woods but declined, fearing typecasting after her role in Married… with Children. Reese Witherspoon took the part, and her portrayal became iconic, leading to an empire of sequels and spin-offs. Witherspoon’s career soared, and she became a prominent figure in Hollywood. Applegate’s choice kept her on a different path, but what a ‘what if’ moment!
7. Tom Selleck – Indiana Jones in Raiders of the Lost Ark
Tom Selleck was the original choice for Indiana Jones but had to decline due to his commitment to Magnum P.I. Harrison Ford then took on the role, becoming synonymous with the adventurous archaeologist. The film’s success led to a series of sequels and a massive fan following. Selleck’s career remained strong in television, but the iconic hat and whip became Ford’s trademarks.
8. Al Pacino – Han Solo in Star Wars
Al Pacino was offered the role of Han Solo in Star Wars but turned it down, citing confusion over the script. Harrison Ford, who was relatively unknown at the time, took the part, leading to a career-defining role. The Star Wars franchise became a cultural phenomenon, and Ford became a household name. Pacino’s decision steered his career on a different path, filled with other legendary roles.
9. Michelle Pfeiffer – Clarice Starling in Silence of the Lambs
Michelle Pfeiffer declined the role of Clarice Starling in The Silence of the Lambs, finding the script too dark. Jodie Foster stepped in, delivering an Oscar-winning performance that became central to her career. The film’s success solidified its place in thriller cinema, leaving Pfeiffer to wonder what might have been. Her decision allowed her to explore a diverse range of other roles.
10. Hugh Jackman – James Bond in Casino Royale
Hugh Jackman was considered for James Bond in Casino Royale but turned it down, concerned about typecasting. Daniel Craig was chosen, leading to a 15-year stint as the iconic spy. Craig’s portrayal brought a new depth to Bond, earning substantial financial success. Jackman continued his successful career, notably as Wolverine, but his choice left Bond fans imagining his potential portrayal.
11. Leonardo DiCaprio – Dirk Diggler in Boogie Nights
Leonardo DiCaprio was offered the role of Dirk Diggler in Boogie Nights but chose Titanic instead. Mark Wahlberg took the part, which significantly boosted his career. While Titanic became a historic success for DiCaprio, the alternative path remains a curious ‘what if’ scenario. Wahlberg’s portrayal in Boogie Nights was praised, paving the way for his future success in Hollywood.
12. Eddie Murphy – Winston in Ghostbusters
Eddie Murphy was considered for the role of Winston in Ghostbusters but declined in favor of Beverly Hills Cop. Ernie Hudson filled the role, and Ghostbusters became a beloved classic. Murphy’s decision led to his own iconic role, and both films defined the decade’s comedy landscape. Though Hudson’s role was smaller, it remains a cherished part of pop culture, while Murphy’s star continued to rise.
13. Molly Ringwald – Vivian in Pretty Woman
Molly Ringwald turned down the role of Vivian in Pretty Woman, a decision that paved the way for Julia Roberts’ breakthrough. Roberts’ portrayal became a hallmark of her career, earning her widespread recognition and an Oscar nomination. Ringwald’s choice kept her away from the romantic comedy’s allure, but it allowed Roberts to shine brightly in Hollywood’s spotlight. A missed opportunity? Perhaps.
14. Josh Hartnett – Batman in Batman Begins
Josh Hartnett was offered the role of Batman in Batman Begins but declined, fearing the impact on his career trajectory. Christian Bale stepped in, delivering a critically acclaimed performance in the Dark Knight trilogy. Bale’s interpretation brought a fresh, intense take on the character, leading to immense success and revitalizing the franchise. Hartnett’s career continued elsewhere, pondering the ‘what if’.
15. Angela Bassett – Leticia in Monster’s Ball
Angela Bassett declined the role of Leticia in Monster’s Ball, viewing it as stereotypical. Halle Berry accepted the challenge, earning an Oscar for her powerful portrayal. The film’s success marked a significant milestone in Berry’s career, while Bassett continued to make impactful choices elsewhere. This decision reflects the delicate balance actors face while selecting roles that align with their values.
16. Burt Reynolds – James Bond in Live and Let Die
Burt Reynolds was approached to play James Bond in Live and Let Die but declined, believing an American wouldn’t be accepted in the role. Roger Moore took over, leading to a successful series of films as 007. Reynolds’ intuition kept him away from a legendary franchise, yet Moore’s interpretation left a lasting impact on the Bond series, proving Reynolds’ concerns unfounded.
17. Madonna – Trinity in The Matrix
Madonna was considered for the role of Trinity in The Matrix but turned it down, a decision she later regretted. Carrie-Anne Moss was cast, becoming an action icon through her performance. The Matrix’s groundbreaking success and Moss’ portrayal left an indelible mark on sci-fi cinema. Madonna’s choice kept her in the music world, while Moss enjoyed the fame and admiration that followed.
18. Viggo Mortensen – Wolverine in X-Men
Viggo Mortensen was approached for the role of Wolverine in X-Men but declined due to creative differences. Hugh Jackman took on the role, embarking on a 17-year journey that established Wolverine as a beloved character in the superhero genre. Mortensen’s decision allowed him to focus on other projects, but Jackman’s portrayal became iconic, earning him widespread acclaim and financial success.
19. Denzel Washington – Mills in Se7en
Denzel Washington turned down the role of Detective Mills in Se7en, finding the script too dark. Brad Pitt accepted, delivering a performance that resonated with audiences and critics alike. Se7en’s success contributed to Pitt’s rising star power. Washington’s choice led him to other acclaimed roles, and while Se7en became a classic, both actors continued to thrive in their respective careers.
20. Gwyneth Paltrow – Rollergirl in Boogie Nights
Gwyneth Paltrow was offered the role of Rollergirl in Boogie Nights but turned it down due to concerns about nudity. Heather Graham stepped in, and her performance received critical acclaim. While Boogie Nights became a cult classic, Paltrow pursued other successful roles. Graham’s decision to embrace the role paid off, marking a high point in her career. Paltrow’s path remained distinct and successful.
21. Jack Nicholson – Michael Corleone in The Godfather
Jack Nicholson was considered for the role of Michael Corleone in The Godfather but declined, believing Italians should portray Italians. Al Pacino was cast, delivering a legendary performance that defined his career. The Godfather’s success solidified its stature in film history. Nicholson’s choice led to a diverse and acclaimed career, while Pacino’s portrayal became a cornerstone of cinematic achievement.
22. Jennifer Hudson – Precious in Precious
Jennifer Hudson was offered the role of Precious but turned it down to avoid weight-related typecasting. Gabourey Sidibe took on the role, earning an Oscar nomination for her raw and powerful performance. Precious became a critical success, while Hudson continued her path in music and acting. Sidibe’s portrayal resonated with audiences, marking her debut with significant acclaim. Hudson’s decision steered her toward diverse opportunities.
23. Mel Gibson – Maximus in Gladiator
Mel Gibson was offered the role of Maximus in Gladiator but turned it down, feeling he was too old for the part. Russell Crowe seized the opportunity, delivering an Oscar-winning performance that revitalized his career. Gladiator’s epic scale and Crowe’s portrayal left a lasting impact on the genre. Gibson’s decision allowed him to pursue other projects, but Crowe’s success in the role was undeniable.