Why did Dick Van Dyke turn down The Omen?

Dick Van Dyke declined the lead role in The Omen because the horror genre did not fit his personal taste.

What movie role did Dick Van Dyke regret missing?

Dick Van Dyke expressed regret over not accepting a movie opportunity that was offered to him by his friend, Cary Grant.

Did Dick Van Dyke work with Sophia Loren?

No, Dick Van Dyke did not work with Sophia Loren. His agent reportedly turned down a film offer from her manager because Van Dyke was asked to take second billing.

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Van Dyke: No Regrets on 'Omen' Rejection

7 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Dick Van Dyke declined the lead in horror classic The Omen.
He regretted turning down a movie opportunity with Cary Grant.
Van Dyke also missed a role opposite Sophia Loren due to second billing.

Van Dyke: No Regrets on 'Omen' Rejection

Legendary actor Dick Van Dyke, speaking at a charity event, revealed he passed on the lead role in the 1976 horror film The Omen. The 99-year-old star explained that the genre simply didn't align with his personal preferences.

While Van Dyke harbors no regrets about The Omen, he admitted to one missed opportunity he wishes he could revisit: a film with his good friend Cary Grant. The reasons for declining remain a mystery to him, a decision he now laments.

Furthermore, Van Dyke recounted a humorous tale of his agent turning down a movie role opposite Sophia Loren because he would have had to take second billing. He expressed enduring frustration over this, joking that he never forgave his agent for not allowing him to work with the beloved actress.

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