Why Did Will Smith Reject Inception Before Leonardo DiCaprio Came on Board? Actor Reveals ‘I’m Hurt By…’

According to Will Smith, he originally had the chance to star in Christopher Nolan’s blockbuster film “Inception” before Leonardo DiCaprio, but ended up being offered the role after Brad Pitt. However, it was only years later that Smith revealed this, as the movie, released in 2010, gained massive popularity and became a cultural phenomenon. In the end, Smith would have played the character Dom Cobb, a professional thief, had events unfolded differently.

Will Smith’s unsuccessful run-in with Christopher Nolan’s Inception

The actor who played The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air has been known to turn down roles that later become extremely successful. For instance, he declined The Matrix, a role ultimately taken by Keanu Reeves, and also passed on Django Unchained, a film starring Jamie Foxx. Recently, he’s spoken about another highly popular movie, one that was initially intended for him.

During an interview on Kiss Xtra radio station, Will Smith admitted, “I’ve never publicly acknowledged this, but since we’re being open with each other, Chris Nolan initially presented Inception to me and it completely eluded me.” The actor attributes his misunderstanding of the film to its complex concept. He further explained that he had not discussed this before, but finds it challenging to grasp movies that delve into alternate realities, stating, “Those films don’t resonate with me easily.” He also mentioned, “I was confused by them, too.

Previously, The Hollywood Reporter dropped a hint about Will Smith potentially being part of a project, but more specifics were kept under lock and key. However, it appears that the dream-sharing film wasn’t just any ordinary flop for him. In fact, the actor confessed that turning down the Neo role in The Matrix was something he still finds too painful to discuss. As an ardent fan, I can only imagine what might have been if he had accepted!

Over the years, Will Smith has passed up on several chances for successful films, yet his movie career remains brilliantly impressive with productions such as “The Pursuit of Happyness” still receiving tremendous affection, if not even more so than when it was first released.

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2025-06-16 13:52