10 Times Actors Thought They Were Fired For Sure

After starring in one of the films responsible for the current period of cinematic superhero riches we're now experiencing on a yearly basis, you'd think that Tobey Maguire would've jumped at the chance to step back into Spider-Man's shoes for a sequel.

However, the star sensed an opportunity to bring in a little more dollar after witnessing the undisputed success of the first Sam Raimi Spidey flick. So, Maguire attempted to play hardball, stating that he'd suffered a rather nasty back injury whilst filming Seabiscuit which would mean some of the planned stunt work in the sequel would be a tough ask for him.

After the actor's publicist released a public statement claiming as much, hinting that he'd be willing to hold out until he was sufficiently compensated for his troubles, Sony Pictures decided to call his bluff and met with Jake Gyllenhaal about taking over the role. As you'd expect, this move was the sort of wake-up call that forced Maguire to backtrack. He would eventually be welcomed back by Sony, but not before he apologised for his actions and was put through an intense physical examination.

As the star put it himself after firing his agent, “I feel like I learned a lesson.”