10 Failed Movie Castings That Were A Blessing In Disguise

10. Sean Connery As Gandalf In The Lord Of The Rings

When Peter Jackson decided to take on the absolute juggernaut that was The Lord of the Rings novels in the late 90's, he knew that he would need a certain calibre of actor to anchor his would-be series.

Casting Gandalf - the seasoned wizard of Middle-Earth - proved to be an early stumbling block, requiring an actor of gravitas and an almost shakespearean quality in order to stay true to his depiction in the books.

The studio turned to James Bond himself, Sean Connery, when trying to figure out who could achieve such a portrayal in their trilogy. Though undeniably mystical as an actor, Connery couldn't understand the script and confessed to still not understanding it after watching the eventual films.

He of course turned down the role and Jackson was forced to pursue another actor for the part. He happened upon a shakespearean wizard in the shape of Ian McKellen and the rest is history.

You can't help but think we were deprived of an iconic Scottish delivery of 'YOU SHALL NOT PASS!', though.