McConaughey Missed Titanic Role Over Accent Clash with Director

According to a posthumous memoir by Titanic producer Jon Landau, actor Matthew McConaughey was in the running for the iconic role of Jack Dawson in the 1997 blockbuster film. However, McConaughey's Southern accent did not resonate with director James Cameron, who asked the actor to try the audition "a different way."

But the 55-year-old Oscar winner refused, telling Cameron, "No. That was pretty good. Thanks." This proved to be the deciding factor, as the role ultimately went to Leonardo DiCaprio, cementing his status as a leading Hollywood star.

While Winslet, who played Rose, was "taken with Matthew, his presence and charm," the director's preference for a different interpretation led to McConaughey missing out on the part. The actor has since spoken about the audition, saying he "really thought it was going to happen" but was never officially offered the role, despite persistent rumors.

Though the Titanic role proved to be a career-defining moment for DiCaprio, McConaughey's own acting career has certainly not suffered. The 55-year-old has gone on to win an Oscar and establish himself as one of the most respected and versatile actors of his generation.