The greatest of the greatest superhero roles almost had a different look to them in Hollywood. During the years, actors have refused offers, auditioned for several parts, and even gone so far as to be thought of for parts they did not play. Superhero cinema has had many fascinating casting stories that have led to changes in the film industry, as shown in interviews, behind-the-scenes reports, and more. Here are ten surprising casting journeys behind some of the biggest superheroes ever to appear on the big screen.
Robert Downey Jr. and Iron Man
The Hollywood Reporter reports that Marvel originally encountered backlash for some reasons due to Robert Downey Jr.’s problems. Director Jon Favreau was particularly vocal about the actor’s abilities, and Downey eventually took the place of the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s face.
Chris Evans Almost Said No
The Hollywood Reporter reports that Chris Evans rejected the offer from Marvel on several occasions due to the commitment it would involve for years before finally taking the job.
Tom Holland’s Long Audition
Tom Holland has talked about the multiple audition and screen test rounds that led to him playing Peter Parker in interviews for The Ellen DeGeneres Show and The Hollywood Reporter.
Henry Cavill’s Second Chance
Before taking the role of Superman in Man of Steel, Henry Cavill auditioned for the part in Superman Returns. The actor was passed over by Brandon Routh, but then he got his shot again several years later, Empire says.
Gal Gadot Nearly Quit Acting
According to GQ and Variety, Gal Gadot considered walking away from acting before receiving the call that she had been cast as Wonder Woman, a role that transformed her career.
Hugh Jackman’s Last-Minute Break
Yes, the door opened for Hugh Jackman thanks to the scheduling problems of Mission: Impossible II, but The New York Times and The Hollywood Reporter reported that actor Dougray Scott was once scheduled to play the infamous ‘Wolverine’.
Chadwick Boseman’s Marvel Journey
In a surprise announcement, Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige revealed that he had been interested in casting Chadwick Boseman for Marvel projects before he finally landed the role of T’Challa in Captain America: Civil War.
Jason Momoa’s Surprise Role
Jason Momoa was originally on the phone with Warner Bros. regarding his meeting for Batman when he was told that the company wanted him to portray Aquaman, Entertainment Weekly reports.
Paul Rudd Didn’t Expect Ant-Man
Paul Rudd told Variety and Entertainment Weekly that he was taken aback that Marvel contacted him for Ant-Man because he wasn’t “a traditional superhero actor.
Andrew Garfield’s Winning Audition
The Hollywood Reporter says that Andrew Garfield’s screen tests, along with his chemistry with Emma Stone, sealed his spot for The Amazing Spider-Man over a few other suits of armor.
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