Hollywood’s Biggest Regrets! 40+ Huge Movie Roles Originally Meant For Another Actor
Lily Allen – Yara Greyjoy (Game of Thrones)
The renowned British singer-songwriter and actress Lily Allen once opened up about a missed opportunity that could have landed her a role on the hit TV series “Game of Thrones.” In a Reddit AMA session, Lily revealed that she had the chance to play the sister of her real-life brother, Alfie Allen, who portrays Theon Greyjoy on the show.
Interestingly, she had initially hoped to be a part of the series. However, she declined the role. The simulated carnal acts between her character and her actual brother’s character made her uneasy. Ultimately, the part of Yara Greyjoy went to Gemma Whelan, and it’s unlikely Lily has any regrets.
Zendaya – Aaliyah (Aaliyah: Princess of R&B)
Unlike some little-known missed roles on this list, this one involving Zendaya was pretty famous. The accomplished actress and singer dropped out of the Lifetime movie “Aaliyah: Princess of R&B,” but the real reason was contrary to social media speculation.
Zendaya clarified that her departure had nothing to do with criticism or doubts about her talent or ethnicity, as presumed. She cited concerns over the production value, music rights complications, and the situation’s delicate nature surrounding Aaliyah’s passing. She even unsuccessfully tried reaching out to Aaliyah’s family for their blessing. Eventually, the role went to former Nickelodeon star Alexandra Shipp and made her famous.
Gillian Anderson – Cora Crawley (Downton Abbey)
Gillian Anderson, renowned for her iconic role as Agent Scully in “The X-Files,” once had the opportunity to join the cast of “Downton Abbey.” Gillian revealed that she could’ve played the role of Cora Crawley but ultimately didn’t take it, and the part went to Elizabeth McGovern.
Although Gillian is no stranger to such period dramas, her age became a consideration. She is seven years younger than Elizabeth and only 13 years older than the actress who portrayed Cora’s daughter. Although she didn’t become Lady Cora, Gillian’s talent continues to shine in various acclaimed roles, like that of Jean Milburn in Netflix’s “S*x Education.”
Sandra Bullock – Trinity (The Matrix)
The producers of “The Matrix” were desperate for someone to play Neo. That became all too evident when they asked Sandra Bullock to step in. The film producer revealed that they even offered to change the role to a female character if Sandra accepted. However, she turned it down because it wasn’t really her thing.
Later, seeing the film’s success, Sandra expressed regret about not taking the other offered role of Trinity in the movie, played by Carrie-Anne Moss. Instead, she chose to star in the 1999 rom-com “Forces of Nature” alongside Ben Affleck. However, the film was, for the most part, forgettable and received brutal reviews.
Claire Danes – Rose (Titanic)
After actress Claire Danes had just finished working with Leonardo DiCaprio on “Romeo and Juliet,” she was considered for the role of Rose in the iconic film “Titanic.” She would have starred alongside Leonardo again, but despite the director’s strong interest in her, Claire turned down the opportunity, and the role ultimately went to Kate Winslet.
At the time, Claire felt eager for different creative experiences. Not to mention she admitted to feeling unequipped to handle the spotlight that the epic story could bring. It is also believed that her complicated relationship with Leonardo on set may have influenced her decision. Nonetheless, she has no regrets about declining the role.
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