2. Mel Gibson - Maximus Decimus Meridius (Gladiator)
Mel Gibson has already verified that he can credibly play the lead in epic historical dramas, when he portrayed heroic Scotsman William Wallace in Oscar winning hit Braveheart. So when he was approached by director Ridley Scott, concerning the lead role in Gladiator, it was presumed that Gibson would welcome the role with open arms and relish the opportunity to once again play the role of enigmatic warrior. However Gibson, like Liam Neeson in Lincoln, believed that he was too old and not physically adept for the role. As a result of this, he (regrettably) declined in appearing in the film. Also at the time, he was already engaged with another epic historical war film, The Patriot. Of course as we all know, Gladiator went on to become one of the most critically acclaimed films of the decade, inspiring a whole sub-genre of ancient historical dramas to come, such as 300 and Alexander. In a running theme to nearly every other entry in this list, Gibson's replacement Russell Crowe acquired an Oscar for his efforts, an honour which catapulted him onto becoming a major Hollywood star. So with all things considered, perhaps not the most inspired decision Mel Gibson's career.