10 Stars That Turned Down Iconic Movie Roles

Hollywood is no stranger to what-ifs and could-have-beens, especially when it comes to casting decisions. Sometimes, iconic movie roles end up in the hands of actors who initially turned them down. These decisions, whether intentional or accidental, can shape the course of cinematic history. In this article, we’ll explore ten instances where stars passed up on iconic movie roles, leaving us to wonder how different our favorite films might have been.

1. Will Smith as Neo in “The Matrix”

Keanu Reeves may forever be associated with his role as Neo in “The Matrix,” but it turns out that Will Smith was initially offered the part. Smith turned it down to star in “Wild Wild West,” a decision he later admitted he regretted. The role ultimately catapulted Reeves to superstardom and became synonymous with the sci-fi franchise.

2. Molly Ringwald as Vivian Ward in “Pretty Woman”

“Pretty Woman” turned Julia Roberts into a household name, but it was Molly Ringwald who was first considered for the role of Vivian Ward. Ringwald declined, and the part ultimately went to Roberts, leading to one of the most iconic romantic comedies of the ’90s.

3. Sean Connery as Gandalf in “The Lord of the Rings”

Imagine Sir Sean Connery as Gandalf in “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy. It almost happened. Connery was offered the role and an impressive $30 million paycheck, but he declined due to not understanding the script. Sir Ian McKellen eventually took on the role and brought the wizard to life on the big screen.

4. John Travolta as Forrest Gump

Tom Hanks’ portrayal of Forrest Gump in the eponymous film is legendary. However, John Travolta was originally considered for the role. Travolta’s decision to pass on it allowed Hanks to deliver one of his most memorable performances.

5. Gwyneth Paltrow as Rose in “Titanic”

Before Kate Winslet became synonymous with the iconic character of Rose in “Titanic,” Gwyneth Paltrow was the first choice for the role. Paltrow, however, declined the opportunity, and the rest is history.

6. Jack Nicholson as Michael Corleone in “The Godfather”

Al Pacino’s portrayal of Michael Corleone in “The Godfather” is considered one of the greatest in cinematic history. Yet, Jack Nicholson was considered for the role before Pacino. Nicholson declined, and the role went to Pacino, solidifying his place in film history.

7. Burt Reynolds as James Bond

Sean Connery is often seen as the definitive James Bond, but did you know that Burt Reynolds was offered the role first? Reynolds turned it down, paving the way for Connery’s iconic portrayal.

8. Sandra Bullock as Margaret “Maggie” Fitzgerald in “Million Dollar Baby”

Hilary Swank’s performance in “Million Dollar Baby” earned her an Academy Award, but initially, Sandra Bullock was offered the role. Bullock declined, and Swank’s exceptional performance made the film a classic.

9. John Lithgow as the Joker in Tim Burton’s “Batman”

Before Jack Nicholson brought the Joker to life in Tim Burton’s “Batman,” John Lithgow was considered for the role. Lithgow declined, and Nicholson’s portrayal became legendary.

10. Michelle Pfeiffer as Clarice Starling in “The Silence of the Lambs”

Jodie Foster’s portrayal of Clarice Starling in “The Silence of the Lambs” earned her an Oscar, but Michelle Pfeiffer was initially offered the role. Pfeiffer turned it down, leading to one of Foster’s most iconic performances.