15 Actors Who Turned Down Huge Franchises — and Why

Certain actors jump at the chance to star in a blockbuster franchise, but others walk away from roles that could’ve changed their careers. Their reasons vary—some clash with schedules, some don’t vibe with the project, and others follow their gut to avoid long commitments.

I’ve listed 15 actors who turned down huge roles in iconic franchises, along with why they made those calls. From superhero flicks to fantasy epics, these decisions shaped their paths and left a mark on the films we love.

Al Pacino – Star Wars

Al Pacino was offered Han Solo in ‘Star Wars’ (1977). He passed because the script felt too confusing and didn’t align with his style, so he stuck to intense dramas.

He later quipped he “gave Harrison Ford a career” by declining. Pacino’s choice kept him grounded in gritty, character-focused roles instead of diving into sci-fi fame.

Will Smith – The Matrix

Will Smith could’ve been Neo in ‘The Matrix’ (1999), but he turned it down after struggling to grasp the Wachowskis’ ambitious pitch. He worried he’d fumble the innovative concept.

He chose ‘Wild Wild West’ instead, a decision he later regretted when it flopped. Smith admitted Keanu Reeves was the right fit, but missing the franchise’s success left a sting.

Sean Connery – The Lord of the Rings

Sean Connery was offered Gandalf in ‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy (2001-2003). Despite a massive $10 million per film offer, he declined because the books and script didn’t click with him.

His choice freed him from a lengthy commitment, letting Ian McKellen step into the wizard’s robes. Connery stayed true to his preference for shorter, less fantastical projects.

Leonardo DiCaprio – Spider-Man

Leonardo DiCaprio was considered for Peter Parker in ‘Spider-Man’ (2002). He passed to avoid being locked into a franchise, preferring roles with more dramatic depth at the time.

He recommended his friend Tobey Maguire, who landed the part. DiCaprio’s focus on films like ‘Gangs of New York’ kept him on a path of diverse, acclaimed performances.

Matt Damon – Avatar

Matt Damon was offered the lead role of Jake Sully in ‘Avatar’ (2009). He declined due to scheduling conflicts with ‘The Bourne Ultimatum’, despite James Cameron’s personal pitch.

Damon later expressed regret, missing out on a massive box-office hit. His choice allowed Sam Worthington to take the role, while Damon stayed tied to action thrillers.

Emily Blunt – Iron Man

Emily Blunt was in line to play Black Widow in ‘Iron Man 2’ (2010). She had to pass due to a scheduling clash with ‘Gulliver’s Travels’, a project she was contractually tied to.

Blunt later called it a tough decision, as she loved the character. Scarlett Johansson took the role, and Blunt focused on varied roles in films like ‘Edge of Tomorrow’.

Tom Cruise – Iron Man

Tom Cruise was considered for Tony Stark in ‘Iron Man’ (2008). He declined, feeling the script wasn’t strong enough and doubting the project’s potential at the time.

His pass opened the door for Robert Downey Jr.’s iconic performance. Cruise stuck to action films like ‘Mission: Impossible’, maintaining his high-octane career trajectory.

Johnny Depp – Ferris Bueller’s Day Off

Johnny Depp was offered the lead in ‘Ferris Bueller’s Day Off’ (1986). He turned it down due to scheduling conflicts and a preference for edgier, less mainstream roles early in his career.

Matthew Broderick became the charming slacker instead. Depp’s choice aligned with his offbeat path, leading to films like ‘Edward Scissorhands’ that defined his unique style.

Russell Crowe – X-Men

Russell Crowe was offered Wolverine in ‘X-Men’ (2000). He declined, feeling the role was too similar to his gladiator character in ‘Gladiator’ and wanting to avoid being typecast.

Hugh Jackman stepped in, owning the role for decades. Crowe’s decision kept him focused on diverse dramatic roles, earning him an Oscar for ‘Gladiator’ that same year.

Denzel Washington – Fast & Furious

Denzel Washington was approached for a role in ‘Fast & Furious 7’ (2015). He passed, reportedly uninterested in the franchise’s action-heavy style, preferring roles with deeper narratives.

His decision left room for the ensemble cast to shine. Washington continued to prioritize films like ‘Fences’, showcasing his strength in character-driven stories.

Mel Gibson – Gladiator

Mel Gibson was offered Maximus in ‘Gladiator’ (2000). He declined, feeling he was too old for the physically demanding role and wanting to explore other projects.

Russell Crowe took the part, earning an Oscar. Gibson’s choice led him to direct and star in films like ‘The Passion of the Christ’, aligning with his creative vision.

Eddie Murphy – Ghostbusters

Eddie Murphy was considered for Winston Zeddemore in ‘Ghostbusters’ (1984). He turned it down to star in ‘Beverly Hills Cop’, believing it was a stronger fit for his comedic style.

Ernie Hudson joined the team instead. Murphy’s decision paid off, as ‘Beverly Hills Cop’ became a massive hit, cementing his status as a comedy superstar.

Gwyneth Paltrow – Jurassic Park

Gwyneth Paltrow was offered a role in ‘Jurassic Park’ (1993), likely Ellie Sattler. She declined, as she was early in her career and felt the project wasn’t right for her at the time.

Laura Dern took the role, shining in the dino-filled blockbuster. Paltrow focused on smaller dramas, building her path to Oscar-winning roles like ‘Shakespeare in Love’.

Nicolas Cage – The Lord of the Rings

Nicolas Cage was offered Aragorn in ‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy (2001-2003). He passed due to the three-year filming commitment, wanting to prioritize time with his young son.

Viggo Mortensen became the iconic ranger. Cage’s choice kept him in varied roles like ‘Adaptation’, balancing family and his eclectic career.

Michelle Pfeiffer – Pretty Woman

Michelle Pfeiffer was offered the role of Vivian in ‘Pretty Woman’ (1990). She declined, reportedly uncomfortable with the romanticized portrayal of the character’s profession.

Julia Roberts became a star in the role. Pfeiffer stuck to complex roles in films like ‘Dangerous Liaisons’, maintaining her reputation for nuanced performances.

Which actor’s decision to skip a franchise surprised you the most? Share your thoughts in the comments!