10 Actors Who Passed On Iconic Movie Roles
3. Paul Bettany - King George VI In The King’s Speech
The story of King George VI overcoming his stammer on the eve of World War Two is the stuff that Oscar dreams are made of. A protagonist battling an emotional personal issue, a period setting and an unlikely friendship between two men of different classes? No wonder the film ended up nominated for more Oscars than any other that year, as well as taking home Best Picture.
Although Colin Firth ended up snagging the role of the King, screenwriter David Seidler told the New York Post that he had his heart set on Paul Bettany winning the part. Director Tom Hooper preferred Hugh Grant.
In the end, both actors were offered the role, and both turned it down. Bettany later said that he immensely regretted his decision.
The producers then turned to Colin Firth and Seidler was totally won over by his audition, claiming that he “knew he was perfect” for the role from then on.