Celebs Who Were Almost Cast as Famous Superheroes

Superhero movies are known for launching actors into stardom, but getting those roles is rarely easy. Many well-known actors came very close to playing iconic heroes, and fans often imagine how different things would be if they had! This article shares the surprising stories of celebrities who nearly played these famous characters on the big screen.

Tom Cruise

I remember hearing that Tom Cruise was actually first considered to play Iron Man way back in the nineties! He was involved for years, and he really wanted to both star in and produce the movie. But apparently, he didn’t quite connect with the way the script was going, so he decided to move on. Thankfully, Robert Downey Jr. stepped in and completely made the role his own – he truly became Iron Man! It’s wild to think how close we were to a totally different Tony Stark, and it’s definitely one of the most talked-about ‘what if’ moments in superhero movie history.

John Krasinski

John Krasinski originally tried out for the part of Captain America, even doing a screen test in the costume. He felt good about his chances until he saw Chris Hemsworth, who was much more physically imposing as Thor. That’s when Krasinski realized how demanding the role would be. Ultimately, Chris Evans became Captain America and played the character for many years. Later, Krasinski joined the Marvel universe as a different character in ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’.

Emily Blunt

Emily Blunt was originally the first choice to play Black Widow in ‘Iron Man 2,’ but she had to turn it down because she was already committed to filming ‘Gulliver’s Travels.’ She was later considered for the role of Peggy Carter, but ultimately decided to pursue other projects. Scarlett Johansson then took on the role of Black Widow (Natasha Romanoff) and became a key part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Fans still hope to see Emily Blunt take on a superhero role in the future.

Nicolas Cage

Nicolas Cage almost played Superman in a movie directed by Tim Burton, but the project, called ‘Superman Lives,’ was cancelled. They even got as far as having Cage try on the Superman costume and do screen tests. Warner Bros. stopped the film because it was getting too expensive and the script wasn’t quite right. Years later, Cage got to voice Superman in ‘Teen Titans Go! To the Movies,’ and he made a quick appearance as Superman in ‘The Flash’ as a nod to the unmade film.

Joaquin Phoenix

Joaquin Phoenix was seriously considered for the lead role in Marvel’s ‘Doctor Strange,’ but he decided the way big-budget blockbusters are made didn’t fit how he likes to work as an actor. Benedict Cumberbatch was Marvel’s first choice, but he was too busy at the time. After Phoenix turned down the role, Marvel changed its filming schedule so Cumberbatch could join the project. Ultimately, Phoenix ended up playing the lead in DC’s ‘Joker’ instead.

Alexander Skarsgård

Alexander Skarsgård was seriously considered for the role of Thor in Kenneth Branagh’s film. He met with the director multiple times and even did a costume test, but Chris Hemsworth ultimately won the part and became known for playing the character. Skarsgård went on to star in popular projects like ‘The Legend of Tarzan’ and ‘True Blood’. Interestingly, his father, Stellan Skarsgård, later appeared in the ‘Thor’ movies as Dr. Erik Selvig.

Jensen Ackles

Jensen Ackles was initially considered for the role of Captain America and made it to the final stages of auditions. When Chris Evans was ultimately cast as Captain America, Marvel offered Ackles the part of Hawkeye. However, he couldn’t accept because he was already committed to filming the TV show ‘Supernatural’. Jeremy Renner ended up playing Hawkeye and becoming one of the Avengers. Years later, Ackles finally got to play a superhero, taking on the role of Soldier Boy in ‘The Boys’.

Cillian Murphy

Cillian Murphy auditioned for the main role in ‘Batman Begins’ and even tried on the Batman suit. Director Christopher Nolan was impressed, but ultimately decided Christian Bale was more suitable as Bruce Wayne. However, Nolan was so pleased with Murphy that he cast him as the villain, Scarecrow, in the film. This marked the beginning of a successful, ongoing collaboration between the actor and director, with Murphy returning as Scarecrow in the two subsequent Batman movies.

Jake Gyllenhaal

When Tobey Maguire hurt his back, Jake Gyllenhaal was almost chosen to play Spider-Man in the second movie. The studio got Gyllenhaal ready to take over, but Maguire got better and was able to film the sequel. Gyllenhaal also came close to being cast as Batman in ‘Batman Begins’ before Christian Bale got the part. Years later, he finally joined a major franchise as the villain Mysterio in ‘Spider-Man: Far From Home,’ after fans had long wondered what kind of hero he might play.

Dougray Scott

Originally, Dougray Scott was cast as Wolverine in the 2000 film ‘X-Men’ and had even signed a contract. However, delays with ‘Mission Impossible 2’ forced him to withdraw from the role. Hugh Jackman stepped in as a late replacement, arriving on set soon after filming began. He famously played Wolverine for over two decades in numerous films, and this unexpected casting switch is now considered a pivotal moment in movie history.

Josh Hartnett

At the peak of his career, Josh Hartnett was considered for the lead roles in major superhero films like Batman, Superman, and Spider-Man. However, he chose to decline all of them, fearing he’d become known only for those types of roles. Hartnett preferred working on smaller, more personal projects and developing as an actor. Ultimately, Christian Bale, Brandon Routh, and Tobey Maguire landed those iconic parts. Hartnett has stated he doesn’t regret his decision to avoid big-budget blockbusters.

Leonardo DiCaprio

In the mid-1990s, Leonardo DiCaprio discussed playing Spider-Man in a planned movie with director James Cameron, but the project was ultimately canceled and the rights went to a different studio. He was also a candidate to play Robin in ‘Batman Forever,’ but he felt it wasn’t the right fit. Throughout his successful career, DiCaprio has generally steered clear of superhero films, and he’s known for encouraging other young actors to do the same, believing it helps them preserve their artistic freedom.

Pierce Brosnan

In the late 1980s, Pierce Brosnan met with Tim Burton about potentially playing Batman. He later shared that he didn’t take the role seriously then and even joked about the costume. Michael Keaton ultimately landed the part and proved everyone wrong with his performance. Brosnan later became famous as James Bond and eventually joined the superhero world as Doctor Fate in ‘Black Adam’. He has since said he regrets not taking the Batman opportunity more seriously.

Will Smith

Will Smith turned down the chance to star as Superman in ‘Superman Returns’ because he worried about the potential negative reaction to a Black actor taking on such a well-known, traditionally white role. Ultimately, Brandon Routh played Superman in the 2006 film. Smith later found success playing other heroes, first as the title character in ‘Hancock’ and then as Deadshot in ‘Suicide Squad’, both within the DC universe.

Sandra Bullock

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Sandra Bullock was seriously considered for the role of Wonder Woman in a movie. Many people thought her athletic physique and appealing personality would make her a great Diana Prince. However, the film project faced numerous delays and was ultimately never made. Bullock later said she believed she was no longer the right fit for the role. Eventually, Gal Gadot successfully portrayed the iconic Amazonian warrior in the DC Extended Universe.

Angelina Jolie

Early in her career, Angelina Jolie was considered for the role of Wonder Woman when director Joss Whedon was working on a script for the film, but the project was never made. She became a popular choice for many leading female superhero roles as she gained fame. Years later, Jolie joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe, playing the powerful warrior Thena in ‘Eternals,’ where she stood out as a key member of the cast.

Marlon Wayans

Marlon Wayans was originally chosen to play Robin in ‘Batman Returns’ and even had a costume made. However, the character was ultimately removed from the movie to make the story more focused. Although planned to reprise the role in ‘Batman Forever,’ a change in directors led to Chris O’Donnell being cast instead. Interestingly, Wayans still receives payments for his original work on the film and frequently shares humorous ideas about how he would have portrayed the Boy Wonder.

Bill Murray

In the early 1980s, filmmakers initially imagined Batman as a humorous, lighthearted movie, and Bill Murray was their top pick to play the lead. Eddie Murphy was even considered for the part of Robin! However, the studio ultimately decided against this comedic approach and instead opted for a darker, more serious take on the character. Tim Burton directed this new version, casting Michael Keaton as Batman and completely changing how audiences viewed the superhero.

Russell Crowe

I always found it fascinating to learn that Bryan Singer originally wanted Russell Crowe to play Wolverine! Apparently, Russell felt the character was a bit too close to Maximus from ‘Gladiator,’ especially with the animalistic aspects. He actually recommended Hugh Jackman for the role instead, which turned out brilliantly – Hugh became a huge star! It’s funny how things work out, because Russell eventually ended up in the superhero world himself, playing Jor-El in ‘Man of Steel’ and Zeus in ‘Thor: Love and Thunder.’

Armie Hammer

Armie Hammer was chosen to play Batman in a movie called ‘Justice League Mortal’ that George Miller was planning. Everything was ready to start filming in Australia, but a writers’ strike and problems with funding caused the project to be cancelled. Hammer had already started preparing for the role with training and studying how Batman moves. After that, he was often mentioned as a possible choice for other DC Comics characters, but he never actually got to play Batman in a film.

Matt Damon

You know, it’s funny, I heard Matt Damon was actually first offered the role of Daredevil! But he ended up turning it down because he didn’t really know the director at the time. Being a good friend, he actually pushed Ben Affleck to go for it, and Ben ended up starring in the 2003 film – it got a bit of a mixed reaction, honestly. Damon’s said he’d totally be up for playing a superhero, but only if he really clicked with the director. And get this – he actually had a little cameo in ‘Thor Ragnarok’ playing an Asgardian actor! It was a fun little surprise.

Ashton Kutcher

In the early 2000s, Ashton Kutcher tried out for the part of Superman in a movie called ‘Superman Flyby’. He even did a screen test wearing the costume, but he didn’t feel it was a good fit. Kutcher worried that taking on such a defining role so early in his career might limit his future opportunities. The movie was eventually scrapped and later developed into ‘Superman Returns’. Ultimately, Kutcher chose to focus on comedy and investing in technology instead of becoming a superhero.

Bradley Cooper

You know, it’s funny how things work out in Hollywood. I heard Bradley Cooper was seriously up for the role of Green Lantern – apparently, he crushed the audition! But Ryan Reynolds ended up getting the part. Bradley even said he had a tough time nailing the voice for Hal Jordan during the screen test. Thankfully, he found his niche in the Marvel universe! He’s Rocket Raccoon, and honestly, his voice work is one of the best parts of the Guardians of the Galaxy movies. It just proves that sometimes, losing out on one role leads you to something even better.

Ryan Gosling

Ryan Gosling was approached by Marvel Studios about starring as Doctor Strange, but he turned down the role. At the time, he wasn’t comfortable committing to a long-term contract with multiple sequels, a pattern he’s maintained throughout his career. Despite this, fans often suggest him for roles like Ghost Rider or Nova, and he remains a popular choice for future superhero films.

Joseph Gordon-Levitt

Joseph Gordon-Levitt was seriously considered to play Peter Quill (Star-Lord) in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy,’ but he decided to star in ‘Sin City A Dame to Kill For’ instead. Chris Pratt then got the part and became well-known for playing the character. Gordon-Levitt had previously played John Blake in ‘The Dark Knight Rises,’ and fans still often suggest him for roles in comic book movies.

Glenn Howerton

James Gunn, the director of ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’, revealed that Glenn Howerton was his second pick for the role of Star-Lord. If Chris Pratt hadn’t been cast, Howerton would have been the one leading the team. Gunn has consistently spoken highly of Howerton’s abilities, noting a particularly strong audition. While Howerton is famous for his role in ‘It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia’, he hasn’t yet starred as the lead in a big superhero movie, though many fans believe he’d be perfect for the part.

Jason Momoa

Jason Momoa initially tried out for the role of Drax in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy,’ but he turned it down. He’d played several similar characters—strong, mostly silent, and often without a shirt—and wanted a role with more speaking lines and opportunities to showcase his acting range. Dave Bautista ended up playing Drax in three successful films. Momoa later found the ideal part for himself as the lead in ‘Aquaman’ for DC Comics.

Olivia Wilde

Originally, Olivia Wilde was offered the role of Gamora in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy,’ but she decided not to take it. While she didn’t say why, this opened the door for Zoe Saldaña to play the part, and Saldaña became well-known for portraying Gamora in several Marvel movies. Wilde later found success directing and acting in her own films, and has expressed a fondness for the superhero genre. More recently, there’s been talk that she might direct a Marvel film with a female lead for Sony.

Timothy Olyphant

Timothy Olyphant seriously impressed the team auditioning for the role of Iron Man, even competing with Robert Downey Jr. Director Jon Favreau has said Olyphant was a top choice, as his cool and charming personality seemed perfect for the part of the wealthy Tony Stark. Ultimately, Downey Jr. got the role and became famous for it. Later, Olyphant found success in the ‘Star Wars’ world, playing Cobb Vanth.

Sam Rockwell

You know, it’s fascinating to look back and realize Sam Rockwell was almost Iron Man! Apparently, Jon Favreau was so impressed with his audition that when it came time for ‘Iron Man 2’, he created a role specifically for him. Rockwell absolutely killed it as Justin Hammer – he brought this fantastic energy and comedic timing to the villain that really resonated with audiences. Honestly, I still get messages from people hoping to see Hammer back in the MCU, and I have to admit, I’m right there with them. He was a truly memorable antagonist.

Sebastian Stan

Sebastian Stan first tried out for the role of Captain America. Although he wasn’t chosen for that part, the filmmakers thought he was a perfect fit for Bucky Barnes. This turned out to be a great opportunity, as it allowed him to play a complex and evolving character – the Winter Soldier – throughout many films and even star in his own Disney Plus series. Stan has said he’s thankful for how things worked out, appreciating the depth his character has been given.

Wyatt Russell

Wyatt Russell’s acting career began with an audition for the original Captain America movie, but he didn’t get the role at that time. However, his connection to the character wasn’t finished. A decade later, he joined the Marvel universe as John Walker in ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier,’ briefly becoming Captain America before evolving into U.S. Agent. Russell saw returning to the franchise after ten years as a fitting and meaningful twist of fate.

Channing Tatum

Before Chris Hemsworth became known as Thor, Channing Tatum was seriously considered for the part. He also worked for years to develop a solo movie for the X-Men character Gambit at Fox, even being cast and appearing at Comic-Con to build excitement. Unfortunately, the project was cancelled when Disney acquired Fox. Tatum finally got a chance to play Gambit with a surprise appearance in ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’.

Liam Hemsworth

Liam Hemsworth was a strong contender for the role of Thor, even making it further along in the auditions than his brother, Chris, at first. Director Kenneth Branagh ultimately asked Chris to return for another audition, which led to him landing the part. The brothers now playfully joke about the competition between them during that time. Liam later found success starring in ‘The Hunger Games’ movies.

Tom Hiddleston

Tom Hiddleston initially tried out for the part of Thor, building up his physique for the audition. He even wore a blonde wig and practiced with Thor’s hammer! However, the filmmakers realized his talents were a better fit for the character of Loki, Thor’s mischievous brother. This turned out to be a brilliant decision, as Hiddleston became a hugely popular figure in the franchise, playing Loki for more than ten years in both movies and his own TV series.

Salma Hayek Pinault

In the mid-1990s, Salma Hayek Pinault was a strong candidate to play Wonder Woman when the movie was first being planned. Because she was becoming a well-known actress with experience in action films, she was often at the top of the list of potential cast members. She also auditioned for the part of Mary Jane Watson in the first ‘Spider-Man’ movie. While she didn’t land either of those roles, she later joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe, playing Ajak, the leader of a group of ancient heroes, in ‘Eternals’.

Morena Baccarin

Morena Baccarin was a contender for the role of Maria Hill in ‘The Avengers,’ but Cobie Smulders ultimately landed the part and played the character for several years. Baccarin quickly found success in the superhero genre herself, appearing as Vanessa in the ‘Deadpool’ movies and Dr. Leslie Thompkins in the series ‘Gotham.’ Since then, she’s become a familiar face in both Marvel and DC projects.

Adrianne Palicki

In 2011, Adrianne Palicki was chosen to play Wonder Woman in a TV pilot for NBC. She filmed the whole episode, and pictures of her in costume became popular online. However, NBC decided not to develop the series further, so it never aired. Later, Palicki joined the Marvel world, playing Mockingbird in ‘Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.’, and she also had a role as a villain on ‘Smallville’.

Common

Common, the rapper and actor, was originally chosen to play John Stewart, the Green Lantern, in a movie called ‘Justice League Mortal.’ He trained for months and was thrilled to be the first Black actor to take on the role in a film. When the movie was cancelled, it was a big letdown for both Common and his fans. Later, he had a smaller part in ‘Suicide Squad’ as Monster T, but he’s still hoping to play a leading superhero someday.

D.J. Cotrona

D.J. Cotrona was originally cast as Superman for a ‘Justice League’ movie directed by George Miller, but the film was ultimately canceled. He was part of a young cast chosen to start a new series of films, and had even finished preparing his costume. The project was stopped just weeks before filming was supposed to begin. Later, Cotrona joined the DC film universe by playing the adult version of Pedro in the ‘Shazam!’ movies.

Adam Brody

Adam Brody was chosen to play the Flash in the planned movie ‘Justice League Mortal’ while he was very popular from his role in ‘The O.C.’, and ready to star in big action films. Unfortunately, the movie was canceled, so he never got to play the character. Years later, Brody did appear in a superhero movie, playing the older version of Freddy Freeman in the ‘Shazam!’ films.

Megan Fox

In the late 2000s, many fans wanted Megan Fox to play popular superheroines like Wonder Woman and Catwoman, especially after seeing her in the ‘Transformers’ movies. While she was often mentioned as a likely choice, Fox later explained she never received an official offer to play Wonder Woman (Diana Prince). She did appear in a comic book movie as Jane in ‘Jonah Hex’ for DC, and later became known for playing April O’Neil in the ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’ films.

Henry Cavill

Henry Cavill didn’t become Superman overnight. He actually auditioned for the role twice before finally getting it in ‘Man of Steel’. At just twenty years old, he made it to the final round for a Superman project called ‘Superman Flyby’, but the movie was never made. A few years later, he lost out on the role in ‘Superman Returns’ to Brandon Routh. Because he missed out on so many big parts – including Batman and James Bond – he gained a reputation as one of the unluckiest actors in Hollywood. But he eventually became known as the go-to Superman for a new generation of DC movies.

Megan Gale

Megan Gale, an Australian model and actress, was originally chosen to play Wonder Woman in a project directed by George Miller. Miller selected her because of her tall stature and powerful look, which he believed perfectly embodied the Amazonian princess. Although she had already done several costume fittings, the film was ultimately cancelled. Years later, photos of Gale in the Wonder Woman costume were made public. She would later collaborate with George Miller again on the film ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’.

Santiago Cabrera

I remember when they were planning ‘Justice League Mortal’! It was so exciting, and Santiago Cabrera was going to be Aquaman – he would have been the very first actor to play the King of Atlantis on the big screen! I heard he was already getting in shape for all those underwater scenes. It was a real shame when the film fell apart, and the role just sat empty until Jason Momoa finally took it on years later. It’s cool to see Cabrera doing well now, though – I’ve enjoyed him in things like ‘Star Trek Picard’ and ‘Transformers: The Last Knight’.

Anton Yelchin

Anton Yelchin, who sadly passed away, was chosen to play Wally West, also known as the Flash, in a planned ‘Justice League’ movie directed by George Miller. He would have been part of a new, younger team of heroes. Yelchin was a very talented actor, already famous for his work in ‘Star Trek,’ and his portrayal of the Flash was intended to highlight the character’s youthful spirit. The film never came to fruition, and it’s now remembered as a significant missed opportunity for DC Comics movies.

Heath Ledger

Christopher Nolan considered Heath Ledger for the lead role in ‘Batman Begins,’ but Ledger initially turned it down, saying he didn’t see himself as a superhero. After seeing Nolan’s vision in the first film, however, Ledger completely changed his mind. He then eagerly sought the role of the Joker in ‘The Dark Knight,’ landed the part, and delivered a now-legendary performance that won him an Academy Award after his death.

Mel Gibson

I always found it fascinating to learn that Mel Gibson was actually the studio’s first pick to play Batman back in ’89! Apparently, he thought the whole idea was a bit too risky and he was already tied up with other projects. And get this – he was also in the running to be Wolverine way back when the ‘X-Men’ movie was just starting to come together. He eventually confessed he just wasn’t keen on the long-term commitment that comes with being in a superhero franchise, and honestly, good for him! He went on to direct some amazing films and definitely didn’t need a cape to become a legend.

Kurt Russell

Kurt Russell was a strong contender to play Batman in Tim Burton’s film. Studio executives thought his experience in action movies would make him a great Bruce Wayne. Ultimately, Michael Keaton was cast instead. Years later, Russell joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe, playing Ego in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2’. His son, Wyatt Russell, also later appeared in Marvel films.

Sylvester Stallone

Sylvester Stallone seriously wanted to play Superman in the 1978 movie. He actively campaigned for the role, but the director, Richard Donner, didn’t think he was right for the part. Stallone was incredibly popular at the time thanks to ‘Rocky,’ and he would have brought a different feel to the character. Ultimately, Christopher Reeve got the role and became well-known as the iconic Superman. Years later, Stallone played Stakar Ogord in the ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ films.

Share your thoughts on these casting choices in the comments.

2026-03-17 18:22