15 Actors who were not the first choice for a role

Modified Jan 03, 2025 13:08 ET

15 Actors who were not the first choice for a role — 15 Actors who were not the first choice for a role (Image via Sony Pictures Entertainment)

13) Keanu Reeves as Neo in The Matrix

Keanu Reeves (Image Via YouTube/@TheGrahamNortonShow)

Will Smith was initially offered the role of Neo in The Matrix, but he turned it down to star in Wild Wild West instead. The role ultimately went to Keanu Reeves, whose portrayal of the hacker-turned-savior became iconic. While Smith’s decision to pass on the role is often cited as one of Hollywood’s biggest "what-ifs," his career continued to thrive with major blockbuster films. Reeves' performance, however, became a defining moment in his career, and The Matrix remains a groundbreaking science fiction classic.

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Nick’s brown jacket by Theory

Nick’s brown jacket by Theory

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Leo’s navy and green striped sweater by Trina Turk

Credits: Peacock

Leo’s navy and green striped sweater by Trina Turk

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Audra’s light peach trench coat by Significant Other

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Chelsea’s Cotton Blend Tote Bag by H&M

Chelsea’s Cotton Blend Tote Bag by H&M

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Chelsea’s cream checked coat by DKNY

Chelsea’s cream checked coat by DKNY

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Chelsea’s black and brown printed shirtdress by Rails

Chelsea’s black and brown printed shirtdress by Rails

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Nate’s leather jacket by John Varvatos

Nate’s leather jacket by John Varvatos

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Credits: Peacock

Lois’s black chevron fair-isle sweater by All Saints

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Credits: Peacock

Sophia’s green striped star sweater by Urban Outfitters

As seen on Madelyn Kientz in DOOL

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Credits: Peacock

Tate’s navy plaid button down shirt by All Saints

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Credits: Peacock

Rachel’s white floral smocked dress by Zunie

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Credits: Peacock

Ava’s floral Floral Peasant Top by Rag & Bone

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Tessa’s red coat by Simkhai

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Phyllis’s brown twist front ruched dress by Ronny Kobo

As seen on Michelle Stafford in Y&R

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Summer’s black button front leather dress by L'Agence

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Mariah’s brown checked coat by DKNY

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Mariah’s Striped Sweater by DKNY

As seen on Camryn Grimes in Y&R

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Sally’s classic jolene bag by Pinko

As seen on Courtney Hope in Y&R

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Sally’s plaid skirt by Maje

As seen on Courtney Hope in Y&R

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Stephanie’s blue wrap mini dress by Maje

Credits: Peacock

Stephanie’s blue wrap mini dress by Maje

As seen on Abigail Klein in DOOL

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Edited by Anshika Jain