“She’s the Queen”: Hugh Grant Refused Offer From $9.6B Franchise For Sandra Bullock
The renowned British actor, Hugh Grant has captured the hearts of audiences with his charming and witty performances in numerous romantic comedies over the years. He first gained recognition in the 1990s with his breakout role in the film Four Weddings and a Funeral, which earned him a Golden Globe nomination. Following his breakout performance he went on to star in several hit movies, including Notting Hill in 1999, Bridget Jones’s Diary in 2001, and Love Actually in 2003.
He is admired for his inherent charm and exceptional acting skills, which have cemented his position as a cherished icon in the entertainment world. Even today, he remains a highly coveted actor.
Hugh Grant Declining A Potentially Profitable Franchise Proposal
The famous English actor has recently become the talk of the town for refusing an astounding offer worth $9.6 billion. Although actors may turn down roles or offers for several reasons, it is unusual for them to decline such a massive amount of money.
The 62-year-old, Hugh Grant declined the opportunity to appear in the massively successful film and one of the biggest entertainment franchises Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, which grossed almost $1 billion at the box office.
He chose to work on the romantic comedy Two Weeks Notice alongside Sandra Bullock, which was released in 2002 and proved to be a box office success, bringing in a total of $199 million rather than accepting a role in the Harry Potter franchise and choosing to forego the $925 million movie offer in favor of a romantic-comedy project.
As per his team’s statement to The Guardian,
“Sadly Hugh had to turn down the part because he’s committed to doing a movie with Sandra Bullock next February.”
Despite not being cast in the Harry Potter franchise, Grant expressed satisfaction at the fact that he was considered for the role, given the rigorous casting process involved.
Hugh Grant Desires To Collaborate With Sandra Bullock
Appearing alongside Sandra Bullock in 2022 the romantic comedy Two Weeks Notice was a significant opportunity for Hugh Grant, as it was a priority for him to collaborate with her.
Hugh Grant admitted that he was uncertain why Sandra Bullock wanted to work with him, stating that he had no clue and shared,
“I don’t know why she’d want to work with ME, but I wanted to work with her just because I’ve always admired her, though she’s the girl, queen of that kind of stuff.”
Furthermore, he revealed that Sandra Bullock’s charm and talent elevated the film to a new level.
“She’s a brilliant comedienne, sort of gorgeous and charming and I just thought that could work and I think it helps with the chemistry a little bit if there’s a part of you that quite fancies the person you’re doing it with.”
The film’s success at the box office, grossing $199 million, was undoubtedly a positive outcome for both actors. However, the earnings were overshadowed by the staggering amount that Grant turned down for another film.
Source: Thethings