Movie:"Ferris Bueller's Day Off". His mother died when Diego was only two, in a car accident. Tarantino breathed new life into it his career but giving him the role." REDDIT. In an interview with Howard Stern, she said, The script was terribleit just wasnt any good. If a Zebra Finch bird could take part in The Masked Singer it would steal the show (that sounds BrainSharper is your news, entertainment, music fashion website. Damon wasJames Cameron'sfirst choice to play the lead in"Avatar"but declined due to a scheduling conflict with "The Bourne Ultimatum" (the role went to Sam Worthington),and Damon turned down the role of Harvey Dent in"The Dark Knight," which went to Aaron Eckhart. Hawaii Five-O ran for 12 seasons and was highly watched. Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance). Actors/Actresses Who Turned Down Big Roles. Ringwaldcoming off the success of iconic '80s flicks like "The Breakfast Club" and "Pretty in Pink"was offered a major rolethat made JuliaRoberts a star in "Pretty Woman." Angiewas originally offered the role of Alex Munday in the 2000 big-screen reboot of "Charlie's Angels" but passed, admitting she wasn'ta fan of the original 1970s series. Obviously, iconic roles could haveturnedout very differently and perhaps not so memorable had every actor accepted every partofferedto them, but its fun to see which flat-out said no way to now-famous parts. They definitely regret missing out on these smash hits. Future Publishing Limited Quay House, The Ambury, Bath BA1 1UA. Matt has an older brother, Kyle, a sculptor. Her agent got the script along with a personal invitation to the role, without an audition, from the shows executive producer. After becoming fairly well-known as a player in "In Living Color," Carrey started being considred for some major movie roles, includingthe title role in "Edward Scissorhands." The role of Danny Zuko went to John Travolta, Who: Al Pacino 10 Actors Who Turned Down Iconic TV Roles For Stupid Reasons. However, once Jonathan Demmwas hired to direct, he wantedPfeiffer, who declined because shefelt the film was too violent. Denzel Hayes Washington, Jr. was born on December 28, 1954 in Mount Vernon, New York. The Parks & Rec actor initially discussed how he turned down the major TV role in his . I'm glad he turned the role down because Jamie is Django. Role: Michael Corleone In what turned out to be something of crossroads moment for the soon-to-be Big Bang Theory superstar, Johnny Galecki . But the part was originally offered to edgy singer Janis Ian, who is best known for her hit song At 17. The tough but tender singer has since faded from the spotlight and was never again offered a major acting opportunity, but she doesnt regret turning down the part, saying Rhea is much, MUCH better than I ever wouldve been.. We think that's called a "challenge" dude. But you probably didnt know he was nearly picked as the small screen love interest of Carrie Bradshaw on Sex and the City. However, the decision seems to have paid off for Bonnie her movies box office grosses are more than $1 billion, and shes been a successful actress for nearly all of her career. Who: Whitney Houston She loved the script, actually. But Bonnie didnt just pass on that role she turned down other offers to star on Designing Women and Home Improvement, and rejected an opportunity to become a Saturday Night Live cast member. This comment obviously stirred up some controversy and caused doubts about his range as an actor, but he's since said he has no regrets about passing up the part (the roles eventually went toHeath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal. Turned down Megamind in the DreamWorks Animation SKG film of the same name. Role: Lady CoraCrawley 10. Role: Patrick Bateman Role: Indiana Jones Show: "Downton Abbey". Molly Ringwald - Pretty In Pink. Who: Matt Damon Move Back. Ford was offered the role of German industrialist and Nazi memberOskarSchindler in Steven Spielberg's 1993 epic, but reportedly turned it down because he felt viewerswouldn't be able to look past him as a "star" to see the importance of the film. Turned down Han Solo in Star Wars. Widely regarded as the one of greatest stage and screen actors both in his native USA and internationally, James Earl Jones was born on January 17, 1931 in Arkabutla, Mississippi. Jake Gyllenhaal was born on December 19, 1980 in Los Angeles, California as Jacob Benjamin Gyllenhaal. Who: Anne Hathaway He embodied the role of the teacher gone bad perfectly, but you probably had no idea that there were two other actors that the producers preferred for the role Matthew Broderick and John Cusack! Movie: Pretty Woman, Like Molly Ringwald, Daryl Hannah also passed on the star-making role in "Pretty Woman. Role: Ennis Del Mar and Jack Twist He was raised in Inglewood and Garden Grove in California. Ive never wanted to do TV. Role:Leticia Musgrove Movie: "The Shawshank Redemption". He has directed episodes of major TV shows like Nip/Tuck, Greys Anatomy, and Glee. Award-winning actor Sir David Jason, 82, revealed he turned down the chance to play a leading role in an ITV series. After becoming the darling of Generation X, Molly Ringwald was flying high. Matt has an older brother, Kyle, a sculptor. Role: Maya Many actors, throughout their career, have refused roles that then became very famous and loved by the public. He played the role of Bumper in the musical films Pitch Perfect and Pitch Perfect Diego Luna Alexander was born on December 29, 1979 in Mexico City, Mexico, to Alejandro Luna and Fiona Alexander, who worked as a costume designer. Bassett reportedly turned down the role that ultimately led to Halle Berry being the first African-American woman to naba Best Actress Oscar, becausedespite not working much at the timefound the part demeaning. According to his autobiography, he was caught off guard and ended up doing a Danish accent. But youll probably be surprised to know that the part was originally offered to someone else John Hawkes! Turned down Shrek in the DreamWorks Animation SKG film of the same name. Movie: "Clueless". But the truth is, Jamie Foxx has surpassed him as an actor at this point. Rejected the role of Rachel Green - Jane Krakowski. 4. Ellen Degeneres is famous or her popular daytime TV talk show and for her work on her eponymous sitcom, which broke barriers when she publicly came out on the air in the 1990s. Incidentially, Robert Downey Jr.and Tom Cruise were also considered for the role. The actressclaims to have had turned it down because she'd previously done other projectsincluding one with Kim Cattrall called "Live Nude" girlswhose focus were also on sex. The part went to a different Ashley Ashley Benson, who, at that time, was a relatively unknown actress. Paul Giamatti was a major movie star, coming fresh the success of starring in the lead role in the Oscar winning film Sideways. Turned down Neo in The Matrix. "Buffy" star Sarah Michelle Gellar originally auditioned for the cheerleader role of Cordelia on the culty '90s series, but was given the lead only afterKatie turned it down to finish high school. 1. In 1976, Malkovich joined Chicago's Steppenwolf Theatre, newly founded by his friend Gary Nicolas Cage was born Nicolas Kim Coppola in Long Beach, California, the son of comparative literature professor August Coppola (whose brother is director Francis Ford Coppola) and dancer/choreographer Joy Vogelsang. He turned down the role, and his career went absolutely nowhere for many years after that fateful decision. Luckily, she made a full recovery. Who: Sandra Bernhard CBS. He seemed ready to branch out and try something new when he accepted the role of the patriarch Howard Cunningham on Happy Days. The Halloween Kills actor turned down the starring role in the 1986 teen comedy written and directed by . Its almost impossible to imagine 1950s anti-hero Don Draper being played by anybody besides Jon Hamm, but apparently, Jon was the producers back up plan! ", Who:Helen Mirren Role: Sidney Prescott So it might surprise readers that he was seriously considered for the part of undercover detective Ricardo Tubbs on Miami Vice. John Lithgow - Cheers. Her parents named her because they hoped Noah Lindsey Cyrus (born January 8, 2000) is an American actress and singer. We provide you with the latest breaking news and videos straight from the entertainment industry. They definitely regret missing out on these smash hits. I gave that boy a career," Pacino said, adding he also gave Harrison Ford a career by declining "Star Wars." Movies: "Avatar" and "The Dark Knight". "Muscle Shoals" New York Special Screening, 18th Annual LA Times Festival Of Books - Day 1, CW, CBS And Showtime 2013 Summer TCA Party - Red Carpet, Entertainment Weekly's Annual Comic-Con Celebration - Arrivals, 'Killing Season' Premiere - The 39th Deauville Film Festival, The Bette Midler NYRP 18th Annual Spring Picnic, Premiere Of Dimension Films' "Scary Movie 5" - Arrivals, Annual Charity Day Hosted By Cantor Fitzgerald And BGC - Cantor Fitzgerald Office, The Lone Ranger - UK Premiere - Red Carpet Arrivals, "Gravity" Press Conference - 2013 Toronto International Film Festival, "August: Osage County" Press Conference - 2013 Toronto International Film Festival, Premiere Of "The Hot Flashes" - Red Carpet, Red 2 - European Premiere - Red Carpet Arrivals, Celebrities Visit SiriusXM Studios - September 18, 2013, 2009 Friars Foundation Applause Award Gala - Arrivals, Warner Bros Entertainment at Comic-Con International 2013 - Day 3, "12 Years A Slave" Premiere - Arrivals - 2013 Toronto International Film Festival, 2013 Tony Awards: The Meet The Nominees Press Junket, TAG Heuer Host 2013 Monaco Grand Prix Party, 2013 BET Awards - Backstage Winner's Room, "The Devil's Knot" Premiere - Arrivals 2013 Toronto International Film Festival, Fashion Rules: Dresses From The Collections Of The Queen, Princess Margaret & Princess Diana - Launch Party, Marc Jacobs - Backstage - Spring 2014 Collection, 2012 Vanity Fair Oscar Party Hosted By Graydon Carter - Arrivals, Premiere Of TriStar Pictures' "Elysium" - Arrivals, 7th Annual "Freeing Voices, Changing Lives" Benefit Gala, "Man Of Steel" World Premiere - Red Carpet, Broadcast Television Journalists Association's Third Annual Critics' Choice Television Awards - Arrivals, 65th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards - Arrivals, Premiere Of Summit Entertainment's "RED 2" - Arrivals, Calvin Klein Collection Post Show Event - Inside - Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Spring 2014, Imeh Akpanudosen/Getty Images for LA Times, Mike McGregor/Getty Images for Cantor Fitzgerald, Anthony G. Moore / PR Photos/Anthony G. Moore / PR Photos, Joe Scarnici/Getty Images for Summit Entertai, Didier Baverel/Getty Images for Tag Heuer, Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for Marc Jacobs, The 45 Most NAKEDCeleb Instagrams of All Time, 45 Celebrities You Never Knew Were Related, director Jay Sandrich told The Daily Mail. Hey, its a classic expression for a reason: Money talks. And veteran actor Craig T. Nelson embodied this saying when he turned down the role of Jay on Modern Family due to a lousy excuse for a paycheck. Can't not put that shit on every time it's on TV. Producers on M*A*S*H were looking for authenticity when casting the starring role of Hawkeye of the war/dark comedy TV show. Although Miami Vice was a smash hit for 5 seasons, its clear Denzels career didnt suffer from not taking the role. It goes to show that a role on the right TV show can make or break a career. Whereas Keanu [Reeves]was smart enough to just let it be. By Nolan Moore / Updated: April 11, 2018 3:44 pm EST. Let's take a look at the 10 actors who turned down great roles. Benjamin Edward Meara Stiller was born on November 30, 1965, in New York City, New York, to legendary comedians Jerry Stiller and Anne Meara. It happens," he toldGQ. 10/15 Olivia Wilde Passed On Playing Gamora Because She Was Tired Of Non-Human Roles. Had Galecki not opted to say "no" to the idea of going full Cooper, though, would both stars have gone on to become household names? You wont believe which stars turned down roles in your favorite classic TV shows! Turned down Edward in Pretty Woman. I had done a movie called Live Nude Girls with Kim Cattrall that was somewhat similar. The legendary Grammy-award winning singer was offered the part of Sondra Huxtable on The Cosby Show in her early twenties. John Christian Wedge was born on March 20, 1957 in Binghamton, New York. Heather Graham and Lindsay Lohan. Role: Tony Soprano The moral of the story: Risk-taking as an actor can pay off. It seems playing a hooker wasn't in her plans, since she turned it down. She explained to the producers of the show that although she hadnt been signed to a label or made a record yet, she was worried committing to the show would keep her music career from taking off. Willis was offered the role of Sam in the 1990 mega-hit "Ghost," and the chance to play alongside his then-wife Demi Moore. Owen's first feature was the raucous comedy, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, where he played the well-intentioned, albeit naive 'Rowley'. Role: Alex Munday In a sad story, Costner passed so he could focus on his passionproject"Waterworld," which became one of the biggest flops in movie history. He is of Irish descent. But, shockingly, the role that made Matt famous originally was offered to movie star Vince Vaughn! Was interested in a role in Apollo 13 but could not due to Se7en. Role: Danny Zuko Oops! Turned down Two-Face in The Dark Knight. A role on the right TV show can transform an actor from a nobody to a household name. Though it may be tempting at times to simply take what is given to you or double-down on an endeavour that you're not fully invested in for the sake of that glorious dollar, sometimes turning down an incoming opportunity can bring with it the sort of positives that can lead to far greater things going forward. The role went to "Sons of Anarchy" star Charlie Hunnam, whoactually resembles Hedlund quite a bit. Role: Michael Clayton Who: Tom Hanks Who: Angelina Jolie Unfortunately, Ringwald turned down the role of Vivan Ward in the smash-hit blockbuster Pretty . Turned down Snoopy and Woodstock in The Peanuts Movie. Michael was already a well-known stand-up comedian at the time of casting, who relied heavily on physical humor. Ed ONeill is best known for playing grumpy patriarch Al Bundy on the popular sitcom Marriedwith Children, and for his current role on Modern Family. A role on the right TV show can transform an actor from a nobody to a household name. 10 Actors Who Turned Down Iconic TV Roles For Stupid Reasons. John explained in a recent interview that, I turned it down because at that point in my life episodic television was beneath my dignity. Little did he know that the character of Frasier would soon get his own spin-off show and become one of the longest running TV shows of all time. The blonde bombshell is best known for her iconic role as CJ Parker on Baywatch, but Pamela Anderson was almost the star of another major TV smash The X Files! The role of Andy Defresne went to Tim Robbins. And he hadn't been cast in anything noteworthy in a very long time. Jennifer Garner, who catapulted into stardom with her lead role on the television series Alias (2001), has come a long way from her birthplace of Houston, Texas. Movie: "Sister Act". Bill Murray is an American actor, comedian, and writer. Movie: "50 Shades of Gray". Gellar was originally offered the role of bitchy high schooler Amber in classic '90s movie "Clueless,"but passed on it due to scheduling conflicts with All My Children. The role eventually went to Elisa Donovan. He pushed hard and got his way. Mel Columcille Gerard Gibson was born January 3, 1956 in Peekskill, New York, USA, as the sixth of eleven children of Hutton Gibson, a railroad brakeman, and Anne Patricia (Reilly) Gibson (who died in December of 1990). Let the movie and the director tell the story, and dont try and perform every moment. Smith also passed on Django in "Django Unchained" because it wasn't the sole leading role, which was probably for the better, since Jamie Foxx was excellent. 2022 SheMedia, LLC. Michael said that he thought the script and paycheck were great so why in the world did he turn down the part? Before the diagnosis, she had even filmed the pilot for the show. Little did Paul know that The Office would turn out to be a massive success, spanning 7 seasons. Turned down Del Spooner in I, Robot. Who: Mel Gibson StyleCaster is a part of Penske Media Corporation. Lindsay was20 when casting began for the movie, and Heather was 37. Who: Emily Browning Jane Krakowski first shot to fame during her stint on Ally McBeal. It's hard to imagine anyone but Sarah Jessica Parker playing the iconic role of Carrie Bradshaw, but Delaney was actually creator Darren Star's first choice. Role: Edward Scissorhands Role: Ferris Bueller Thanks to that string of actors turning down roles, some of the most iconic characters ever to grace the silver screen were forged. Role: Stripper See which 10 actors turned down famous movie and TV roles below, and let us know which shocked you most: Go Back. SpaceXs entire existence is on the controversial side. I would have absolutely messed up 'The Matrix'. To everyone's shock, Carey wasriveting in the unglamorous role and won major critical praise. Best known as David Lettermans bandleader and sidekick, you might be surprised to hear that Paul Shaffer passed up the role of George Constanza on Seinfeld. Movie: "Million Dollar Baby". It really was an age thing.". Robert Downey Jr. has evolved into one of the most respected actors in Hollywood. Who: John Travolta Tell us what you think about this feature. The "X Files" star has quite a bit of experience acting in periodpieces, and told TV Guide Magazine shewas initially offered the role of Lady Cora Crawley (now played by Elizabeth McGovern)on the British series that's become a major phenom stateside. You won't believe which stars turned down roles in your favorite classic TV shows! However, Cruise passed on the role to film "All the Right Moves" instead. The part was written with Richard in mind but in the audition, when he was asked to speak in an alien voice Richard blew his opportunity. Movie: "Indiana Jones". This movie had a veritable who's who of leading men signed on to play the role of yuppie and (maybe) murderer Patrick Bateman, includingEdNorton,Johnny Depp, Brad Pitt, and Ewan McGregor. The part of Renwent to Kevin Bacon, but only after Rob Lowe also had to pass because of an injury. When screenwriter Ted Tallywas writing the screenplay for the film, he suggested Jodie Foster, who reportedly waslobbyingfor the role (and, ultimately, got it.) I mean, Meryl Streep won Oscars without all that.'' However, the role that made him famous was almost taken by another famous comedian, Richard Lewis. He is the middle of three children of a beautician mother, Lennis, from Georgia, and a Pentecostal minister father, Denzel Washington, Sr., from Virginia. Its hard to imagine anybody else but Matthew Perry playing the sarcastic Chandler Bing on Friends, but Jon Cryer was originally offered the role on the classic sitcom. Matt LeBlanc, in comparison, hasnt acted much since Friends, so its clear that Vince made the right choice. ActorThomas Jane passed on the role for a number of reasons thatlet's face itmade sense at the time, such as the fact that AMC was anetwork known for reruns of old movies, not robust television series, and the fact that it was a cerebral show, which Jane didn't think would attract viewers. ", Who:Michelle Pfeiffer Steve Martin was born on August 14, 1945 in Waco, Texas, USA as Stephen Glenn Martin to Mary Lee (ne Stewart; 1913-2002) and Glenn Vernon Martin (1914-1997), a real estate salesman and aspiring actor. Turned down Batman in Batman (1989). "There is a museum of mistakes . David Morrisseys career has blown up ever since he started playing the role of The Governor on the hit series The Walking Dead. Most people have no idea that John Lithgow passed on the role of Dr. Frasier Crane on Cheers, a character that was specially written with him in mind. Its especially ironic considering that Ed went on to play the anti-Steven, Al Bundy, on MarriedWith Children. O'Dowd created and is starring in the Sky 1 television series Moone Boy (2012). She turned it down and Olivia Newton John took the part. 6. Turned down Green Goblin in Spider-Man. 8. The part went toAl Pacino, and became one of the best performances in movie history. Russell Peters was born on September 29, 1970 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. England and Wales company registration number 2008885. 1. Movie:"Brokeback Mountain", Both Wahlberg and Phoenix were approached by director Ang Lee to playgay cowboys in the critically acclaimed 2005 film, but Wahlberg passed on the role, later sayinghe was"creeped out" by the graphic script. Movie: "Monster's Ball". Turned down Stu in Phone Booth. Robert Foxworth passed on the part of J.R. Ewing, the patriarch of the family 8. Turned down Ramona Quimby in Ramona and Beezus. Most people have no idea that John Lithgow passed on the role of Dr. Frasier Crane on Cheers, a character that was specially written with him in mind. Turned down RJ in Over the Hedge. Had these actors not had the courage to say "no" when these particular roles were sent their way, would they be as popular or successful as they are now? Among his siblings are actors Kevin P. Farley and John Farley. They definitely regret missing out on these smash hits. Turned down James Bond in Casino Royale. But you probably didnt know that he almost played womanizing bar owner Sam Malone on Cheers! Movie: "The Addams Family", Cher turned down the role of Morticia in the movie adaptation of the gothic TV show, which went to Angelica Huston. "Valentine's Day," however, was a flop. Winkler passed forfear of being typecast, but has since saidhe regretsturning down the partbecause he essentially was already typecast as the Fonz anyway. When he was in his late teens, Robby impressed the producers of the show Happy Days, and they offered him the role of Richie, which he turned down. Most people have no idea that John Lithgow passed on the role of Dr. Frasier Crane on Cheers, a character that was specially written with him in mind. 3. Since Taylor is worth an estimated $280 million, its clear that she made the right choice for herself. Its the way the movies operated. Reese also passed on another horrorrole, 1998's "Urban Legend." The Australian super star rose to fame as a singer and actress. Comedian and actress Bernhard was offered the role of cynical lawyer Miranda Hobbes on the HBO show but told Howard Stern shepassed due to the"terrible" script and low paycheck. Turned down David Mills in Se7en due his filming of Crimson Tide and Devil in a Blue Dress. Role: Vivian Ward Charles Is 'Concerned' Harry & Meghan's Documentary Kate Is 'Hell-Bent' on Doing Her Own Tell-All After Amy Robach Is Reportedly 'Blaming' Lara Spencer For Kirstie Alley Only 'Recently Discovered' Her Cancer TJ Holmes Cheated on His Wife With Another 'GMA' Staffer We always hear sad stories of the working actors plight and how a good job is hard to come by, but what we dont always realize is there are a ton of actors who turned down roles during their career. Nowadays, Thomas Jane ended up back on TV in the less successful Hung, and Mad Men has become a fan favorite and modern classic for audiences worldwide. Not many young women would turn down the lead role on a sitcom starring opposite Bill Cosby, but thats exactly what Whitney Houston did. Washington also turned down Brad Pitt's role in 1995's "Se7en. Ours was when we heard that Broderick,along with actor John Cusack, are both rumored to have passed on the role of ailing chemistry teacher turned meth kingpin Walter White on AMC's behemoth'Breaking Bad." Calista Flockhart wasn't David E. Kelley's first choice for the lead on his series Ally . Crowe went on to win an Oscar and become a huge star. In a rare interview this year, the accomplished actor also revealedhe'dpassed onthe lead in "Die Hard,"paving the way for Bruce Willis. Learn More. 10 Actors Who Turned Down Iconic TV Roles For Stupid Reasons. Back in the day, when Mickey Rourke was known for his acting and not tabloid drama, he was offered the lead role of undercover detective Sonny Crockett on Miami Vice. Role: Lester Burnham In what turned out to be something of crossroads moment for the soon-to-be Big Bang Theory superstar, Johnny Galecki found himself being offered the chance to step into the role of none other than Sheldon Cooper early into production on the then-incoming series many moons ago. He soon Christopher "Chris" O'Dowd (born 9 October, 1979) is an Irish actor and comedian best known for his role as Roy Trenneman in the Channel 4 comedy The IT Crowd (2006). He is an actor and producer, known for Source Code (2011), New Year's Eve (2011) and Chef (2014). Turned down Mr. Peabody in Mr. Peabody & Sherman. Role: Delores Van Cartier/Sister Mary Clarence Turned down Maximus in Gladiator. So, from everyone's favourite New Girl feeling there were bigger things to pursue than life in an Office, to one of the galaxy's greatest creators dodging an iconic sitcom part to pursue other roles and opportunities, these are those actors who went on to greatness after turning down certain TV jobs. As noted in the introduction, it really is impossible to think of other . Mischa Barton was coming hot off the heels of the smash hit teen drama The O.C., where she played spoiled teenager Marissa Cooper. Movie: "Michael Clayton". John explained in a recent interview that, "I turned it down because at that point in my life episodic television was beneath my dignity.". Executive producer and creator Leonard Freeman knew exactly who he wanted to play McGarrett Richard Boone, a veteran actor who made appearances in the popular films Halls of Montezuma and Dragnet. Ed O'Neill is best known for playing grumpy patriarch Al Bundy on the popular sitcom Marriedwith Children, and for his current role on Modern Family.. Ed O'Neill - Cheers. You won't believe which stars turned down roles in your favorite classic TV shows! Role: Neo William Bradley "Brad" Pitt was born on December 18, 1963 in Shawnee, Oklahoma and raised in Springfield, Missouri to Jane Etta Pitt (ne Hillhouse), a school counselor & William Alvin "Bill" Pitt, a truck company manager. It eventuallywent to Lucy Liu, but not before being offered to Jada Pinkett Smithand Thandie Newton, both of whom hadscheduling conflicts. Who: Kevin Costner The role ultimately went to George Clooney. 9. Ray Liotta, who is best known for his role in the gangster flick Goodfellas, was offered the role of Tony Soprano on HBOs The Sopranos. Who: Henry Winkler She auditioned for the part of Rachel Green on Friends and was being seriously considered for the role but salary negotiations between her agent and the producers turned sour and the role went to Jennifer Aniston. WhatCulture is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Who:Will Smith Who: Denzel Washington There are many reasons . But with Sheens notorious antics, its likely Jon regretted not taking the part on Friends! Apparently, it was kept quiet thatHedlund signed on to play the debonair S&M lover in the buzzy big-screen adaptation of the erotic novel, but dropped out for lack of a connection with the character. It paid off for Donald majorly, since M*A*S*H was a smash hit. show Magnum, P.I. 13. Lifts rubber and metal. Ellen was offered the role, but turned it down. Damon has an uncanny knack of choosing the right roles, though he passed on two of the highest-grossing movies ever. John Lithgow - Cheers. A role on the right TV show can transform an actor from a nobody to a household name. He played further comedic roles in Mr. Role: Oskar Schindler Published March 8, 2017. Eventually,Christian Bale got the role andpardon the punkilled it. The sitcom Laverne and Shirley broke down many barriers, as it was the first of its kind to depict the struggles and triumphs of two single women living in the city. Yes, the part of the world's most politically incorrect boss almost went to Paul Giamatti, who was hot off the success of wine-themed buddy flick "Sideways" and reportedly was the first choice for Michael Scott. Here's a list of actors that wish they hadn't passed on these classic TV show roles. Eric Stoltz is a multi-talented Hollywood power player. Family Ties, the classic 80s sitcom, was an essential part of the 1980s. This is due to his death. Currently, shes a hit on the comedy 30 Rock, and has been nominated for 4 Emmy awards for her role as Jenna Maroney. You won't believe which stars turned down roles in your favorite classic TV shows! It was clearly the right choice, as shes a household name today with an estimated net worth of $360 billion and many successful projects. Washington passed on thelead in 2007's "Clayton," but has since admitted it was a mistake. Show: "The X Files", In an odd casting choice, the show's producers reportedly had their eye on the busty blonde for the role of FBI Special AgentScully, which eventually made Gillian Anderson a householdname. The film that Garth Brooks was reportedly offered a role in is none other than the epic war classic Saving Private Ryan.The concept for the movie was developed by producer Robert Rodat, after he read the book D-Day: June 6, 1944: The Climactic Battle of World War II by Stephen Ambrose. He dropped out of the role at the last minute, and must have regretted the decision. He is of Russian Jewish descent. Role: Walter White Movie: "American Psycho". He is of Italian (father) and Polish and German (mother) descent. He has starred in the Hollywood blockbusters Malcolm X, Remember The Titans, and American Gangster. They definitely regret missing out on these smash hits. Visit our corporate site (opens in new tab). Katie Holmes was still a teenager at the time of casting and decided to focus on her school work instead of acting, and the role went to Sarah Michelle Gellar. Role: Andy Dufresne Movie: "Twilight". Ed O'Neill is best known for playing grumpy patriarch Al Bundy on the popular sitcom Marriedwith Children, and for his current role on Modern Family.. Ed O'Neill - Cheers. Movie: "Silver Linings Playbook", Hathaway was originally cast as Tiffany but had to drop out due to scheduling conflicts, causing Jennifer Lawrence to get the role and win a Best ActressOscar in 2012. Show: "Buffy the Vampire Slayer". Gibson wasapproached for the part of Maximus in Gladiator before Russell Crowe, but passed reportedly because he felt he was getting too old for those types of action roles. Role: BlackWidow Movie: "The Hangover". The character of Laurie is inseparable with Susan in most peoples minds, but, shockingly, there was another actress considered for the part Olivia Newton-John! But Sandra turned it down. . Who:Johnny Depp Taylor Swift, TV actress? 24/7 Tempo has identified 30 actors who turned down roles in movies that would go on to become box office blockbusters. Anne also won that year (though not quite as big), bagging a Best Supporting Actress Academy Award for "Les Miserables. Katie Holmes is best known for her work on Dawsons Creek and being the ex-wife of Tom Cruise and the mother of his daughter Suri. Rodat reached a deal with Paramount Pictures to write the script, and the studio then hired director Steven . But John apparently turned down the part because he felt it was too commercial. He said in an interview that he didnt take the part because, I have to be careful of what TV shows I choosethere are going to be sponsors.. Pamela Anderson - The X Files. 10 Actors Who Turned Down Iconic TV Roles For Stupid Reasons. Who: Paul Shaffer Turned down Dr. Liz Wilson in Garfield: The Movie. All Rights Reserved. John Joseph Travolta was born in Englewood, New Jersey, one of six children of Helen Travolta (ne Helen Cecilia Burke) and Salvatore/Samuel J. Travolta. Most people cant imagine Ally McBeal, the lead character from the sitcom of the same name, being played by anyone but Calista Flockhart. Obviously, we know Harrison Ford assumed the iconic role. Matthew Paige Damon was born on October 8, 1970, in Boston, Massachusetts, to Kent Damon, a stockbroker, realtor and tax preparer, and Nancy Carlsson-Paige, an early childhood education professor at Lesley University. And Emmy and Golden Globe awards and nominations would ultimately head Parsons and Galecki's way, respectively, over the course of the show's eventual 12-year run on the small-screen. It's hard to imagine Viggo Mortensen as Wolverine or Sandra Bullock headlining The Matrix as Neo now, but both of those things could have happened, except for the fact that the actors turned down those roles to . Role: Tiffany Maxwell Movie: "Pretty Woman". Bridget Fonda as Ally McBeal. His biggest success since turning down the part has been voicing the Beast in the Disney animated movie Beauty and the Beast. Movie: "Edward Scissorhands". It's not terribly hard to picture a young Cruise starring in the 1984 hit, and apparently producers wanted him big-time (they'd obviously seen his underwear dance sequence in "Risky Business.") Turned down Hale Caesar in The Expendables. Hawaii Five-O was a popular TV drama that followed the adventures of Honolulu special task force detective Steve McGarret. 1. Sadly, that image hasn't won him any prizes or accolades as a serious actor, and Kevin Spacey ended up taking home the Oscar for his role of angry suburban father and husbandin "Beauty. Apart from Nicholson,Warren Beatty, Robert Redford, Ryan O'Neal, and Dustin Hoffman were offered the role, but they eachdeclined. 11 Images. Mirren passed on the role of social worker Mrs. Weiss in Lee Daniels' 2009 dark flick "Precious" and was replaced byMariah Carey. It appeared to work as he has since starred Actor | A role on the right TV show can transform an actor from a nobody to a household name. Who: Drew Barrymore According to WhatCulture,the producers of "Magnum PI"the show thatmade Selleck famousrefused to allow their star to participate inwhat would have been an even bigger break for him as theadventure-seeking archeologist. Turned down Captain Underpants in Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie. Ed O'Neill is best known for playing grumpy patriarch Al Bundy on the popular [] Played to perfection by Leonard Nimoy, its hard to imagine that Spock was almost played by a different actor Martin Landau of Mission: Impossible and Ed Wood fame. But Ashley had already been cast as the lead in her own show, Hellcats, where she wouldnt have to share the spotlight. But originally Leah Remini was almost cast as Monica on Friends, until Courtney Cox showed up and demanded the show be re-cast. Turned down Jason Bourne in The Bourne Identity due to his filming in Spy Game. Pacino admitted he passed on the role of businessmanEdward Lewis in the iconic rom com(which went to Richard Gere.) The lead role of Carrie Bradshaw was played by Sarah Jessica Parker, but actress Dana Delany was originally offered the part and turned it down. His older sister's Maggie Gyllenhaal.He made his movie debut at 11 in City Slickers (1991). Cher turned down the role of Morticia in the movie adaptation of the gothic TV show, which went to Angelica Huston. Who: Katie Holmes It may surprise fans of the legendary show that SNL funny girl Gilda Radner was originally cast as Shirley. Who: Rooney Mara Who: Melanie Griffith Thankfully he did and the rest was Big Bang history. His parents are producer/screenwriter Naomi Foner & director Stephen Gyllenhaal. The tall, handsome and muscular Scottish actor Sean Connery is best known as the original actor to portray James Bond in the hugely successful movie franchise, starring in seven films between 1962 and 1983. It made more than $450 million at the box office and further made two sequels. His parents were 18 and 20, and not yet married, when he was born. Richard Dean Anderson similar turned down the part and has since faded into obscurity. A matter of choices, you know, also because it is not always possible to predict the . Role:Amber Unproduced 20th Century Studios animated projects. He is of Irish descent. Show: "Mad Men". Movie: "Adventures in Babysitting". . Ironically, when Grease was in casting, Susan Dey was actually preferred for the role of Sandy. Ringwald also said no to playing Molly Jensen in "Ghost," a role thateventuallywent to Demi Moore. Turned down Joker in Batman (1989). Role: Sondra Huxtable Movie: "The Silence of the Lambs". Movie: "Gladiator". However, his first love was TV acting and he was well known in the industry that the producers of the gritty cop drama The Shield wanted to cast him as Vic. Who:DanaDelaney Quirky, inventive and handsome American actor Michael Keaton first achieved major fame with his door-busting performance as fast-talking ideas man Bill Blazejowski, alongside a nerdish morgue attendant (Henry Winkler), in Night Shift (1982). Later on, he went to star alongside Charlie Sheen in the popular series Two And A Half Men. The actress turned down the role of Clarice Starling The silence of the lamb Jonathan Demme then went . Role: Don Draper Sure enough, Galecki soon wound up making the part of Leonard Hofstadter his own, with Jim Parsons brilliantly stepping into the instantly iconic Sheldon part instead. Role: Chris Parker Movie: "Grease", It seems a little obvious that the producers of "Grease" would want former "Happy Days" star Winklerto basically reprise the character of the Fonz in the 1978 movie musical. He was born as Frederick Reginald Ironside on February 12, 1950 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Jon Cryer - Chandler Bing (Friends) Jordan Strauss/AP. Barrymore was first offered the lead role ofNomi Malone in camptastic flick "Showgirls," but (smartly)turned it down, since it went on to became regarded as one of the worst movies ever made. Jim Carrey, Canadian-born and a U.S. citizen since 2004, is an actor and producer famous for his rubbery body movements and flexible facial expressions. But, like Katie Holmes earlier on this list, she was also offered and turned down the role of Buffy on Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express. The outspoken star also told Stern she wasn't thrilled at the prospect of working alongside Sarah Jessica Parker. Whitney Houston was thiscloseto playing the eldest Huxtable daughter on the hit 1980s sitcom. Who:Sandra Bullock Role: James Bond, Billy Flynn Robert Foxworth passed on the part of J.R. Ewing, the patriarch of the family She was pretty tough. He went on to cast her in the role of Alex Kelly. Cage changed his Christopher Crosby Farley was born on February 15, 1964, in Madison, Wisconsin, to Mary Anne (Crosby) and Thomas Farley, who owned an oil company. Apparently, he wanted to pursue more film roles and wasnt ready to commit to working fulltime in a main role in a TV series. and Blake Lively, who ended up taking the part, has been transformed into a household name and movie star. The role ended up going to actress Lauren Graham, who had plenty of experience playing a TV mom from her earlier work on the smash show Gilmore Girls. Sidenote: Delaney also passed on the role of Bree van de Kamp on "Desperate Housewives." Jane Krakowski - F.R.I.E.N.D.S. I have to be in every tour.'" John Lithgow - Cheers. But even though Richard already lived in Hawaii, he turned down the role for unknown reasons. Who: Lindsay Lohan Taylor turned it down to focus on music, and Hollywood royalty Emma Roberts (Julia Roberts niece) stepped in to take her place. The role made Sarah a household name. Turned down Jerry Maguire. Happy Days ran for 11 seasons and was hugely successful. Johnny Galecki Was Tired Of Playing The Best Friend, So Turned Down Sheldon. Who: Molly Ringwald Despite accepting the role at first, he clashed with producers over script issues and salary negotiations. The role went toSabrina LeBeauf. Since successfully transitioning from being the queen of country to the empress of pop, theres nothing that T-Swift cant do. Show: "The Office". Actress Leah Remini is best known for her time on The King of Queens, starring opposite Kevin James as his wife Carrie Hefferman. Interestingly, Cher was also considered for the part of the Grand High Witch in 1989's The Witches," which also went to Huston. Interestingly, Bullock actually was cast in the role, but decided to pull out after several delays. Yikes! Though Smith passed on the role of Neo (as did Ewan McGregor), he's sincesaid:"In the pitch, I just didnt see it. Adam Patrick Devine is an American actor, comedian, singer, screenwriter, and producer. John explained in a recent interview that, "I turned it down because at that point in my life episodic television was beneath my dignity.". I really wanted to do Modern Family and I really liked the script and I liked the people, Craig said, but due to the amount of money he was offered he had to pass up the role. Turned down Megamind in the DreamWorks Animation SKG film of the same name. Turned down Jack Sparrow in Pirates of the Caribbean. However, few people know that this funny lady was almost cast as Phoebe on Friends! She turned it down." Who: Jack Nicholson But you probably didn't know that he almost played womanizing bar owner Sam Malone on Cheers!Ed turned down the part of Sam on the classic series because he wanted to focus on dramatic roles. Who:Chevy Chase However, Shaffer was busy at the time and never followed up with Jerry. From the late 1990s Screen tested for Spider-Man 2 while Tobey was injured. Interestingly, Daniels appeared on "The Jon Stewart Show" in 2010, and said Mirren called him three days before shooting to say"I can't do it; I have a real job, a paying job" and claimedshe could do Carey's role "in her sleep." Who: Garrett Hedlund Role: Sam Wheat Who: Pamela Anderson Tv; Actors Who Turned Down Big Roles These 25 Actors Passed on the Role of a Lifetime, but Most of Them Didn't Regret It. So its no surprise that when he was offered the part of office buffoon Michael Scott in the American version of the British comedy The Office, he turned down the role. Turned down Jon Arbuckle in Garfield: The Movie. Sex and the City ran for 6 seasons and was a major cultural phenomenon. Movie: "Showgirls". He gave up halfway through the audition. There's no doubt that Bette Midlera muscal theater vetand overall iconic performerwould have been perfect for the role that eventually went to Whoopi Goldberg, and producers of "Sister Act" agreed. At an early age, he started to take dramatic lessons to calm himself down. Nervous-looking lead and supporting actor of the American stage and films, with sandy colored hair, pale complexion and a somewhat nervous disposition. I dont think anybody would look at that now and say, That movie was not perfect., Who: Leonardo Dicaprio Role: Buffy Summers Just good fun. Well, Costner is still one of the actors who regretted turning down the role. Thomas William Selleck is an American actor and film producer, best known for his starring role as Hawaii-based private investigator "Thomas Magnum" on the 1980s television series, Magnum, P.I. He had a recurring role on the drama series Girls ( Tell us what you think about this feature. Robin Williams break-out role came when he played the lovable alien Mork in Mork and Mindy. Other roles Cher has turned down include Thelma in "Thelma and Louise," and Barbara Rose in "War of the Roses" (which went to Kathleen Turner. In 1960, he got a job at the Magic Nicolas Cage was born Nicolas Kim Coppola in Long Beach, California, the son of comparative literature professor August Coppola (whose brother is director Francis Ford Coppola) and dancer/choreographer Joy Vogelsang. Role: Leigh Anne Tuohy Show: "The Sopranos". Lucky they did, because the part has undoubtedly cementedBryan Cranston's place in television history. The fifth of nine children, he was born William James Murray in Wilmette, Illinois, to Lucille (Collins), a mailroom clerk, and Edward Joseph Murray II, who sold lumber. Turned down Shrek in the DreamWorks Animation SKG film of the same name. Movie: "The Godfather". Ally McBeal is a cult classic comedy-drama about the eponymous character . "[I would have had] to play third or fourth fiddle to [Parker] and put up with her s--t."It would have been hideous to work with her." Who: Bette Midler "That role was mine for the taking, but I couldnt understand the script," Pacino said. John Lithgow - Frasier . Producer David Jacobs explained that Robert didnt want the part because he felt the character needed to be more sympathetic. The iconic role was taken by Larry Hagman, who rose to fame as the show grew in popularity. Olivia Wilde impressed everyone during her audition, except for the shows creator Josh Schwartz. According to Splitsider,Carrey lacked experience as a dramatic actor during this period, so histurn as Scissorhands would have likely been more comedic than Depp's and could have jeopardized the project. A role on the right TV show can transform an actor from a nobody to a household name. Robert Foxworth passed on the part of J.R. Ewing, the patriarch of the family on the hit series Dallas. He turned the part down and it went to Michael Chiklis. I love feature films too much.. Not being there for you turned out to be a good call for Jon Favreau after all Never underestimate the power of "no", folks. Bill Murray. Martin explained in 2001 that he didnt take the role because, A character without emotions would have driven me crazy; I would have had to be lobotomized.. He won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his work in Training Day. Turned down Neo in The Matrix. However, Hanks wasn't the studio'sfirst choice for the roleJohn Travolta was, followed by Bill Murray and Chevy Chase. Jane Krakowski rose to prominence after her appearance on Ally McBeal. Turned down Forrest Gump. Turned down Happy Chapman in Garfield: The Movie. Susan Dey is best known for her role as Laurie Partirdge on the popular sitcom The Partridge Family. She has five siblings - two half-brothers, a half-sister, and a younger brother and sister. Role: Miranda Hobbes Actor Matt LeBlanc and his portrayal of lovable goofball Joey Tribbiani on Friends are inseparable in most peoples minds. Nowadays, shes well known for her role as Nicky on the prison dramedy Orange Is The New Black. Skip. Brooklyn Nine-Nine Quiz: Can You Complete These Jake Peralta Quotes? Movie: "Scream". Because Courteney Cox had appeared in the hit movies Ace Ventura: Pet Detective and Scream, the producers listened to her and cast her as Monica. "It just doesn't feel very human. Who: Matthew Broderick "People love to attack her for everything, like: "Ha, she didn't see how great The Hangover was going to be. He grew up in Ruidoso, New Mexico, a small town 120 miles south of Albuquerque, where he first took up acting in the fourth grade. Watches people flip in spandex and pretends to be other individuals from time to time 10 TV Characters Who Were Perfectly Cast (The Second Time), 10 Most Anticipated New TV Shows Coming In 2023, Batman: The Animated Series 10 Best Characters, Doctor Who: 20 Things You Didn't Know About The Tenth Doctor. Hes also acted in blockbuster films like The Rules of Attraction, The Butterfly Effect, and Jerry Maguire. Turned down Forrest Gump due to his filming in Pulp Fiction. Possibly not. Matthew Broderick - Walter White (Breaking Bad) Whatever made AMC consider Matthew Broderick for the role of the complex Walter . Jane went on to star on sex-themed series"Hung," which aired on solid-as-a-rock HBO, but got canceled after two sesaons. Turned down Ferdinand as a child in the Blue Sky Studios film of the same name. Witherspoon turned down the lead role in the 1996 horror movie, which ultimately went to Neve Campbell. Who: Daryl Hannah She is a success on the sitcom 30 Rock, for which she has received four Emmy nominations for . Role:Nomi Malone They were looking for someone bustier, taller, leggier than me. Movie: "American Beauty", Not only did Chase pass on"Forrest Gump," but also said no thanks to the lead role in "American Beauty"for fear thatit would hurt his family-friendly image. Bill Murray is an American actor, comedian, and writer. Getty Images. Mischa Barton rose to fame because of her starring role as California teenage Marissa Cooper on The O.C. He dropped the part and was replaced by John Forsythe. Role: Mrs. Weiss This Australian actressbest known for her role in "Sucker Punch" reportedly flat-out refused to even audition for the role of Bella in the mega-successful "Twilight" franchise. Comedian and actress Bonnie Hunt was originally offered the lead of Jamie Buchanan on Mad About You. But Gildas part was taken from her at the last minute and given to Cindy Williams, supposedly because Cindy was more classically attractive and was expected to have broader audience appeal. The role of Tuohy went to Sandra Bullock anddespite her distractingly heavy-handed Southern accentwon her an Oscar. Show: "Breaking Bad.". He turned it down, fearing that he would be typecast as an Italian mafia member forever. Role: Jake Sully; Harvey Dent since then, Gillian has been reportedas saying: "Pamela was somebody who was more familiar to them in terms of what was on TV at the time. Lohan declined the stripper role in the 2009 thatwent to Heather Graham, because she felt she was too young at the time. Vanessa Williams also reportedly passed on the role of Leticia. Movie: "Iron Man 2". Its understandable why Mischa would turn down the lead role in Gossip Girl, as the character she would have played was so similar and she worried about being typecast. In what turned out to be something of crossroads moment for the soon-to-be Big Bang Theory superstar, Johnny . Scarlett Johansson played the iconic character. John Gavin Malkovich was born in Christopher, Illinois, to Joe Anne (Choisser), who owned a local newspaper, and Daniel Leon Malkovich, a state conservation director. Travolta has since admitted that passing on the part was a mistake. It's about putting something out there you can be proud of 10 years later. Thomas Jeffrey Hanks was born in Concord, California, to Janet Marylyn (Frager), a hospital worker, and Amos Mefford Hanks, an itinerant cook. Who:Angela Bassett Wednesday Quiz: You'll Never Be Able To Name 100% Of These Characters, 10 TV Shows That Killed Off Their Biggest Stars, Friends Quiz: Match The Joey Scene To The Season. Show: "Sex and The City.". Turned down Will Turner in Pirates of the Caribbean. Actors Who Turned Down Oscar-Winning Roles. NEWS EXCLUSIVES MOVIES TV REVIEWS FEATURES. Turned down Batman in Batman (1989). And would Johnny in particular still find himself being pigeonholed into romance-less roles for the foreseeable? Who: Thomas Jane Role: Christian Gray 7. Keanu's father was born in Hawaii, of British, Wesley Trent Snipes was born in Orlando, Florida, to Marian (Long), a teacher's assistant, and SMSGT Wesley Rudolph Snipes, an aircraft engineer. Giamatti was offered the part, but declined andasSplitsider pointed outGiamattis characters tend to be more cerebral than Michael Scott,whileCarell nails the dumb guy routine in a way Giamatti cant. 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