5 Actors Who Turned Down Gandalf Role in ‘Lord of the Rings’

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In my perspective, J.R.R. Tolkien’s character, Gandalf, isn’t merely a standout wizard in the realm of fantasy literature; he has transcended into one of the most recognized figures in cinematic lore. With his signature pointed hat, staff, and long beard, hair, and robe, Gandalf embodies the very essence of what we imagine a wizard to be. Spanning various adaptations of Tolkien’s epic fantasy tales throughout the years, Gandalf’s most celebrated manifestation is arguably in Peter Jackson’s critically lauded The Lord of the Rings film series and its less-celebrated prequel trilogy, The Hobbit.

In both collections of films, Ian McKellen masterfully portrayed the character of Gandalf, infusing him with a blend of wisdom and kindness. As Gandalf, McKellen has provided some of the most memorable movie lines from the series, such as “You shall not pass!”, “The choice we make now will define us,” and “Fly, you fools.” It’s hard to envision anyone else playing Gandalf in these movies, but that was almost the case. Here are five actors who declined the opportunity to play the legendary wizard, Gandalf.

5
David Bowie

As a cinephile, I find myself intrigued by an unexpected piece of trivia: David Bowie, the legendary musician, was once in contention for the iconic role of Gandalf in “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy. Amy Hubbard, the casting director, shared this tidbit with the Huffington Post, stating that it was Peter Jackson’s initial idea, pondered during the film’s early stages of development. Fascinating, isn’t it?

Instead of Gandalf being a role that Bowie aspired for, it was actually Elrond, the Elf king, he yearned to play. Regrettably, due to his packed schedule, he couldn’t take on either character and ultimately had to turn down the roles. As we know, Gandalf was portrayed by someone else, while Hugo Weaving landed the role of Elrond. Throughout his career, David Bowie has been in numerous films, including Christopher Nolan’s “The Prestige.

4
Anthony Hopkins

Anthony Hopkins is often recognized as one of the most exceptional actors in history, known for his remarkable performances, especially as Hannibal Lecter. Interestingly, when Peter Jackson was casting The Lord of the Rings trilogy, Anthony Hopkins was initially a backup choice for the role of Bilbo Baggins, should Ian Holm have turned it down. Remarkably, Anthony Hopkins even auditioned for the part of Bilbo.

Initially, the role of Gandalf was offered to Hopkins rather than Holm, according to McKellan himself. Later on, Jackson and his team deliberated over having Hopkins for the character instead of Holm. During a 2023 interview with Variety, McKellan mentioned Hopkins among the actors who declined the opportunity to portray Gandalf.

3
Patrick Stewart

Patrick Stewart is recognized for embodying legendary characters across several well-known series. He takes on the role of Captain Jean-Luc Picard in various Star Trek movies and series, particularly in Star Trek: The Next Generation. Additionally, he portrays Professor Charles Xavier, also known as Professor X, in the X-Men film series, often alongside his longtime co-star and friend Ian McKellen, who plays Charles’ adversary, Magneto.

As a movie enthusiast, I almost joined an epic franchise, “The Lord of the Rings,” by being cast as Gandalf. Yet, there was something about the script that left me utterly displeased. In fact, I couldn’t help but express my dislike for it and eventually turned down the role. At a 2008 New York Star Trek Convention, I shared this story and revealed how my friend, McKellen, seized the opportunity to play Gandalf instead.

2
Christopher Plummer

Christopher Plummer is widely recognized as one of the most talented actors in Hollywood, with a career spanning numerous memorable films. However, it’s his portrayal of Captain von Trapp in the timeless musical “The Sound of Music” that has earned him particular acclaim. Interestingly, he was also offered the role of Gandalf in “The Lord of the Rings,” a part he found quite appealing.

Initially excited about traveling to Middle-Earth, he changed his mind upon realizing the amount of dedication required. Frankly, spending three years in New Zealand didn’t seem enticing to him. He confided in Conan O’Brien, “I thought there are other countries I’d like to visit before I pass away.” Unwilling to comply with the demanding filming schedule, Plummer declined the role. In a glimpse of what his portrayal of Gandalf could have been, he commented, “Perhaps I would have come across as a bit aloof and stern.

1
Sean Connery

Back in the day, as a die-hard film enthusiast, I was fascinated to learn that the original James Bond himself, Sean Connery, was on the list for Gandalf. Yes, you read it right! The first James Bond was actually Peter Jackson’s initial pick to embody the legendary wizard.

It turns out that the charismatic Scotsman was presented with an offer he couldn’t refuse – a whopping $30 million, along with a 15% share of the box-office earnings for the entire Lord of the Rings series! Jackson and New Line Cinema clearly believed Connery would be a powerful addition to their magical world.

If Connery had taken up the offer, he would’ve certainly earned a substantial amount of money. Yet, the seasoned actor turned down the role and its financial incentive because he found it challenging to comprehend Middle-Earth. In a 2005 interview with the New Zealand Herald, Connery admitted, “I read the book. I read the script. I saw the movie. Even so, I still don’t grasp it.

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2025-01-19 01:01