Tom Wilkinson was contacted in regards to his availability for The Lord Of The Rings shoot, but declined because he wasn't keen on the idea of spending a year away from his family. Obviously for three films with such an extensive shoot, that was something of a deal breaker. Wilkinson isn't averse to the idea of starring in big-budget movies, having appeared in the likes of The Patriot, Batman Begins, Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol and The Lone Ranger, but was understandably wary of relocating to the other side of the world for the production. As for the role he was being considered for? While it remains unclear, the smart money is likely on Theoden or Denethor.