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Iconic Roles Almost Played By Hollywood Legends
2 Nov
Summary
- Frank Sinatra was once set to play Dirty Harry.
- Doris Day turned down the role of Mrs. Robinson.
- Henry Winkler passed on playing Danny Zuko in Grease.
Hollywood history is filled with "what if" scenarios, where legendary actors nearly stepped into iconic roles. Frank Sinatra was attached to play Dirty Harry in 1971, but withdrew due to a hand injury, leading to Clint Eastwood's casting.
Anne Bancroft ultimately portrayed Mrs. Robinson in The Graduate, though Doris Day initially turned down the part due to its controversial nature. In a similar vein, Henry Winkler, popular as "The Fonz," rejected the role of Danny Zuko in Grease, fearing typecasting.
These near misses also include Stacy Keach being cast as Father Karras in The Exorcist before Jason Miller took over. Sylvester Stallone famously held out to star in Rocky, rejecting offers for bigger names like Ryan O'Neal or Burt Reynolds.
Other significant almost-roles include John Travolta being John Bender in The Breakfast Club, and Christopher Lee being considered for Dr. Sam Loomis in Halloween. Jack Nicholson was approached for Capt. Willard in Apocalypse Now but had a scheduling conflict, paving the way for Martin Sheen.
