In the world of Hollywood, egos and drama are never in short supply. Sometimes, this leads to actors walking away from potentially great roles because they can’t get along with their co-stars. While it’s true that we’re taught to work with others despite our differences from a young age, it seems that some stars let their emotions get the better of them when it comes to their careers. Let’s take a look at five actors who turned down roles because of another actor.
5. Debra Winger
Debra Winger was initially cast as Dottie Hinson in the classic film A League of Their Own. However, she couldn’t get along with Madonna, who was also in the movie, and decided to walk away from the role. It’s a shame, as Winger’s career could have benefited from the exposure. Interestingly, she managed to work with Shirley MacLaine on Terms of Endearment despite their mutual dislike, so it’s curious that she couldn’t do the same with Madonna.
4. Leonardo DiCaprio
Back in 2009, Leonardo DiCaprio was set to star in a Mel Gibson film. However, after Gibson’s infamous tirade, many actors wanted to distance themselves from him, including DiCaprio. While he never explicitly stated that he left the project because of Gibson, his actions spoke louder than words, and it’s clear that he didn’t want to be associated with the controversial actor.
3. David Hill
David Hill may not be a household name, but he played an extra in Adam Sandler’s The Ridiculous 6. The film was criticized for its portrayal of Native Americans, and many people, including Hill, took issue with the offensive content. Despite being a comedy, the movie rubbed a lot of people the wrong way, and Hill decided to walk away from the project.
2. Richard Gere
During the filming of The Lords of Flatbush, Richard Gere and Sylvester Stallone had a major falling out. The details of their feud vary depending on who you ask, but the end result was that one of them had to go. Ultimately, the decision was made to keep Stallone and let Gere go. While the two actors may have made peace over the years, it’s clear that their animosity at the time cost Gere a role in the film.
1. Terrence Howard
Many fans noticed the change in actors for the character of James Rhodes between Iron Man and Iron Man 2, as Terrence Howard was replaced by Don Cheadle. The reason for this switch was due to a salary dispute: Robert Downey Jr.’s pay was increased, while Howard’s was decreased in order to secure Downey Jr. for the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Unhappy with this decision, Howard chose to leave the franchise, and the role was recast.
In the end, it’s worth considering what’s more important: the paycheck or one’s pride. These actors made their choices, but it’s hard not to wonder what could have been if they had been able to put their differences aside and work together.
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