Charlie Hunnam's Accidental Acting Debut and Near-Miss with 'Sons of Anarchy'

Three months ago, Charlie Hunnam revealed the unconventional beginnings of his acting career and the near-miss that almost cost him his most iconic role.

The Newcastle-born star recounted how his very first acting opportunity came by chance while he was shopping as a teenager on Christmas Eve. A production manager for the local TV drama "Byker Grove" approached Hunnam after he playfully blew a kiss to a woman, and offered him his first television role.

Years later, Hunnam nearly sabotaged his chance at stardom when he almost lost the leading part of Jax Teller in FX's hit drama "Sons of Anarchy". Hunnam explained that he had taken a break from acting to write a screenplay, leaving the "Sons of Anarchy" pilot script untouched on his desk for two months. When he finally recognized its potential and rushed to the audition, he was an hour and 15 minutes late, soaked in sweat, and rattled from the ordeal. Despite his poor performance, the producers took pity on him and awarded him the role.

Hunnam revealed that "Sons of Anarchy" was so unsung in its early seasons that it nearly didn't survive at all. However, the show's subsequent success on streaming platforms transformed Hunnam into an international star.

Even with his Hollywood success, Hunnam's Geordie roots still shine through. He recalled winning a poker tournament and being mistaken for "Gandalf the Wizard" by a group of local "scallies" who proceeded to hurl insults at him, a testament to the humbling nature of his hometown.