10 Actors Who Passed on Legendary Movie Roles

Some movie roles are so iconic that they define an actor’s career and become cultural landmarks. But what happens when an actor says no to a part that goes on to make history?

Here’s a look at 10 actors who turned down roles that became massive hits. From scheduling conflicts to creative doubts, their reasons vary, but I bet a few wish they could rewind time.

10. Will Smith – Neo in ‘The Matrix’ (1999)

Will Smith was offered the groundbreaking role of Neo in the sci-fi classic ‘The Matrix.’ He passed, choosing ‘Wild Wild West’ instead, unable to grasp the Wachowskis’ visionary pitch.

I can’t imagine anyone but Keanu Reeves as Neo now, but Smith later admitted he might have messed it up. He’s laughed it off, saying his choice left room for Reeves to shine.

9. Christina Applegate – Elle Woods in ‘Legally Blonde’ (2001)

Christina Applegate was offered the bubbly, brilliant Elle Woods but declined, worried it was too close to her ditzy ‘Married… with Children’ character. Reese Witherspoon made the role iconic.

I love Applegate’s comedic chops, but she’s called this a ‘stupid move’ in hindsight. Elle’s charm and wit wouldn’t be the same without Witherspoon’s spark.

8. Halle Berry – Annie Porter in ‘Speed’ (1994)

Halle Berry was pitched the role of Annie, the quick-witted bus passenger in ‘Speed.’ She turned it down, thinking the script’s early draft—where the bus barely moved—wasn’t thrilling enough.

I get why she hesitated, but Sandra Bullock’s chemistry with Keanu Reeves made the film a classic. Berry’s since said she kicked herself after seeing the final cut.

7. John Travolta – Forrest Gump in ‘Forrest Gump’ (1994)

John Travolta was a top choice for the lovable Forrest Gump but chose ‘Pulp Fiction’ instead. Tom Hanks’ heartfelt performance won an Oscar and cemented the film’s legacy.

I respect Travolta’s choice—‘Pulp Fiction’ revived his career—but Hanks was born to play Forrest. It’s hard to picture anyone else running across America.

6. Jack Nicholson – Michael Corleone in ‘The Godfather’ (1972)

Jack Nicholson passed on playing Michael Corleone, believing an Italian actor should take the role. Al Pacino’s chilling performance became one of cinema’s most iconic.

I admire Nicholson’s principle, but Pacino owned that role. Nicholson later said he knew it’d be a hit but felt Pacino was the perfect fit.

5. Matt Damon – Jake Sully in ‘Avatar’ (2009)

Matt Damon was offered the lead in ‘Avatar,’ along with a hefty 10% of the profits. He declined due to scheduling conflicts with ‘The Bourne Ultimatum,’ missing out on millions.

I can’t picture anyone but Sam Worthington as Jake now, but Damon’s admitted this one stings. Who wouldn’t regret passing on the biggest box-office hit ever?

4. Sean Connery – Gandalf in ‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy (2001-2003)

Sean Connery was offered the wise wizard Gandalf but turned it down, saying he didn’t understand the script. Ian McKellen’s portrayal became a fantasy legend.

I love Connery’s work, but McKellen’s gravitas made Gandalf unforgettable. Connery reportedly missed out on a massive payday, which might’ve added to the regret.

3. Leonardo DiCaprio – Dirk Diggler in ‘Boogie Nights’ (1997)

Leonardo DiCaprio was Paul Thomas Anderson’s pick for the adult film star Dirk Diggler but chose ‘Titanic’ instead. Mark Wahlberg’s raw performance made the role a cult classic.

I can see DiCaprio in the part, but ‘Titanic’ launched him to stardom. He’s said he regrets passing, though, wishing he could’ve done both films.

2. Rachel McAdams – Andy Sachs in ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ (2006)

Rachel McAdams turned down the role of Andy Sachs three times, feeling it wasn’t right for her. Anne Hathaway’s breakout performance made the film a modern classic.

I adore McAdams, but Hathaway’s charm and grit nailed Andy. McAdams’ choice let her focus on other great roles, but this one must haunt her a bit.

1. Hugh Jackman – James Bond in ‘Casino Royale’ (2006)

Hugh Jackman was offered the chance to play 007 after Pierce Brosnan’s run but declined, feeling tied to Wolverine and wary of another franchise. Daniel Craig redefined Bond.

I can’t imagine Jackman’s charm in the tux, but Craig’s gritty take was perfect. Jackman’s choice was smart for his career, but who says no to Bond?

Which role do you wish one of these actors had taken, or is there another missed casting we should know about? Share your thoughts in the comments!