4 MCU Actors Who Almost Played a Different Marvel Superhero
The MCU’s success owes much to impeccable casting, where actors seamlessly embody iconic characters. From Robert Downey Jr.’s Tony Stark to Chris Evans as Captain America and Chris Hemsworth as Thor, these portrayals are inseparable from the characters. The journey to assemble this cast was filled with twists, auditions, and fierce competition. Surprisingly, some actors initially auditioned for different MCU roles. Let’s explore 4 Marvel actors who vied for other characters.
Also Read: Chris Hemsworth Made Tom Holland a Crucial Part of the MCU, Pushed Marvel to Hire Him
Tom Hiddleston for Thor
Tom Hiddleston’s path to portraying the iconic Loki in the MCU began with a twist. Despite originally auditioning for the lead role of Thor, the God of Thunder, Hiddleston’s undeniable talent and dedication to his craft stood out. After months of intensive training, he immersed himself in the prospect of becoming the powerful and regal Thor, even undergoing a screen test with the character’s signature golden locks. Hiddleston told Jimmy Fallon,
“And I just thought I was auditioning for a movie. You know, an interesting part in an interesting movie. Back then, the Marvel Universe was—they’d just made Iron Man. And I thought, ‘I’ll have a go.’ I didn’t expect to be cast at all.”
Fate intervened in the casting tale, favoring Chris Hemsworth as Thor. Yet, the casting directors, acknowledging Tom Hiddleston’s extraordinary talent, redirected his path to embody the shape-shifting trickster, Loki. This pivotal moment not only altered the trajectory of Hiddleston’s career but also left an enduring mark on the MCU.
Sebastian Stan For Steve Rogers
The process of casting for the iconic role of Captain America involved several prominent actors vying for the opportunity to don the star-spangled suit. Among the notable contenders, Sebastian Stan initially set his sights on embodying the patriotic hero. However, the discerning casting directors, armed with a keen vision for each character, were already shaping the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Despite Kevin Feige seeing potential in Sebastian Stan for Captain America, a persuasive pitch from Joel Silver led to Chris Evans securing the role, marking a pivotal moment in casting. While Evans triumphed, casting directors recognized Sebastian Stan’s unique qualities, aligning him perfectly with the character of Bucky Barnes, the former Winter Soldier.
Sam Rockwell For Marvel’s Iron Man
The casting journey for the pivotal character of Tony Stark in Iron Man carried its own set of twists and turns, with Sam Rockwell emerging as a key contender. Jon Favreau, the director of the film, initially envisioned Rockwell as his top choice for the role of the charismatic and brilliant billionaire. In those early stages, Marvel had reservations about casting Robert Downey Jr. Jon Favreau told Rolling Stone,
“Under no circumstances are we prepared to hire him for any price.”
Despite Jon Favreau preferring Sam Rockwell, fate intervened, and Robert Downey Jr.’s charisma and depth transformed Tony Stark into an iconic figure in the MCU. While Downey secured the role of Iron Man, Sam Rockwell found his place as the antagonist Justin Hammer in Iron Man 2, showcasing his talent within the Marvel universe.
Chadwick Boseman For Drax
Chadwick Boseman’s journey into the Marvel Cinematic Universe took an interesting turn during his initial audition for Guardians of the Galaxy. He aimed for the role of Drax the Destroyer, but the part went to Dave Bautista. Casting director Sarah Finn recognized Boseman’s unique quality, redirecting him to the role of T’Challa, the wise and compassionate Black Panther, in a twist of fate that shaped his iconic presence in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
