20 Things You Didn't Know About Star Wars: Rogue One
13. Chirrut Îmwe Was Almost Played By Jet Li
Though it might be difficult to imagine anyone but the inimitable Donnie Yen playing the badass blind warrior Chirrut Îmwe, the part very nearly went to fellow martial arts legend Jet Li.
Lucasfilm only ever considered Yen and Li for the role, the two being arguably the most iconic and bankable cinematic martial artists of their time, yet Yen ultimately won out because his salary demands were considerably lower.
Though there are disputes about precisely how much Yen was paid for the part - reports suggest nobody but Felicity Jones was paid over mid-six figures - he was said to have requested considerably less than Li.
While Yen was initially hesitant to accept the part due to it taking him away from home for several months, his young son's fondness for Star Wars ultimately convinced him to play Chirrut.
And considering he was easily one of the most entertaining parts of Rogue One, it was certainly to the fans' gain.