15 Actors Who Turned Down Huge Movie Roles (And Why)

Most stories we hear about actors turning down roles usually amount to boring scheduling conflicts or money disputes, however, that’s not always the case. For us Hollywood outsiders, taking on a movie role seems simple: “hey here’s a cool script, the chance to be an icon, and millions of dollars for a few months’ work. Maybe I’ll even get to learn Kung Fu!” But that’s just not how life works. People have their own passions, dreams, vanities, and levels of respect they believe they deserve. And you’re not going to believe this, but that applies even to the smiling pretty faces on the Oscars red carpets! Yes, people who have accomplished a level of success, fame, and fortune most of us can only dream about are, as it turns out…people. Plus, sometimes turning down a role means getting to keep your clothes on. Sometimes, it simply means you don’t have to spend your golden years in New Zealand.