They Were Almost Stars of Your Favorite Shows

Throughout television history, numerous actors have declined roles that later became iconic, altering the landscape of the entertainment industry. These decisions, influenced by various personal and professional reasons, have led to some of the most memorable performances by other actors. Here are several notable instances where actors turned down significant TV roles:​

1. Matthew Broderick as Walter White in Breaking Bad

Before Bryan Cranston’s portrayal of Walter White became legendary, Matthew Broderick was approached for the role. Broderick declined, leading to Cranston’s Emmy-winning performance. ​

2. Kristin Davis as Monica Geller in Friends

Kristin Davis was considered for the role of Monica Geller in Friends. She turned it down, and Courteney Cox ultimately brought Monica to life, becoming a central figure in the show’s success. ​

3. John Lithgow as Frasier Crane in Cheers

John Lithgow was offered the role of Frasier Crane in the hit sitcom Cheers. He declined, and Kelsey Grammer took on the character, leading to widespread acclaim and a successful spin-off series. ​

4. Patrick McGoohan as James Bond in Dr. No

Patrick McGoohan was considered for the role of James Bond in Dr. No. He declined due to personal principles, leading to Sean Connery’s iconic portrayal of the British spy. ​

5. Burt Reynolds as James Bond

Burt Reynolds was approached to play James Bond after Sean Connery’s departure. He declined, believing that an American couldn’t portray the British spy, leading to Roger Moore’s tenure as 007. ​

6. John Wayne as Matt Dillon in Gunsmoke

John Wayne was considered for the role of Marshal Matt Dillon in Gunsmoke. He declined, recommending James Arness, who went on to play the character for two decades. ​

7. Eddie Murphy as Winston Zeddemore in Ghostbusters

Eddie Murphy was originally considered for the role of Winston Zeddemore in Ghostbusters. Due to scheduling conflicts, he declined, and Ernie Hudson took on the role.​

8. Macaulay Culkin as Jack Dawson in Titanic

Macaulay Culkin was considered for the role of Jack Dawson in Titanic. He declined, leading to Leonardo DiCaprio’s breakthrough performance.​

9. Val Kilmer as Neo in The Matrix

Val Kilmer was approached to play Neo in The Matrix. He declined, and Keanu Reeves accepted the role, leading to a highly successful film series.​

10. Billy Bob Thornton as Green Goblin in Spider-Man

Billy Bob Thornton was offered the role of Green Goblin in Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man. He declined, and Willem Dafoe’s portrayal became iconic.

These instances highlight how casting decisions can significantly impact television and film history. While it’s intriguing to consider how these shows and movies might have differed with alternate casting, the actors who eventually took on these roles contributed to their enduring success.