10 More Actors Who Refused To Promote Their Own Movies

David Hyde Pierce is among the few actors whose reason for not promoting his work was considered justified. In the 2004 version of Hellboy, expert mime and contortionist Doug Jones portrayed the amphibious humanoid, Abe Sapien. Because Jones wasn't famous at the time, the studio wanted a big name to voice the character and so, hired David Hyde Pierce.

In situations like this, the person performing the voice is usually credited for the role. For example, Sylvester Stallone was credited as King Shark in The Suicide Squad even though the character was portrayed by Steve Agee. Because Jones was a stunt man at the time and Pierce was a four-time Emmy winner, it seemed reasonable that Pierce was credited for Abe Sapien.

However, Pierce was so blown away by Jones's performance as the aquatic hybrid, he let him attain sole credit for the role. The Frasier star also didn't attend the premiere since he didn't want to steal Jones' thunder. When Pierce refused to return for the sequel, Doug Jones was allowed to use his own voice for the character, helping solidify his career as a true actor.