10 Best Actor Replacements In Movies

3. Michael J. Fox - Back To The Future

Ed Harris Truman Show
Universal

The frantic nature of Back to the Future's production has been extensively written about over the years, namely that the film's first 34 days of shooting saw not Michael J. Fox playing the part of protagonist Marty McFly, but Eric Stoltz.

Stoltz, a terrific actor in his own right, was cast after scheduling issues prevented Fox from playing the role, but more than a month into filming, director Robert Zemeckis confessed that he felt Stoltz was wrong for Marty, playing the part with too much intensity.

As a result Stoltz was dismissed, and by this time it became possible for Fox to replace him as the lead.

This required a month's worth of Stoltz's scenes being re-shot, which combined with Stoltz being paid his full salary, added an estimated $4 million to the budget while putting the shoot hugely behind schedule.

Despite much negativity surrounding the film while it was in production - a tough claim to believe nowadays - Back to the Future of course went on to become a massive success, in large part due to Fox's pitch perfect performance as Marty.

Truly, it's difficult to picture anyone else playing that part - Fox is Marty, no matter that he had to hit the ground running as soon as Stoltz was given his marching orders.

Contributor
Contributor

Stay at home dad who spends as much time teaching his kids the merits of Martin Scorsese as possible (against the missus' wishes). General video game, TV and film nut. Occasional sports fan. Full time loon.