Entertainment
'Man of Steel': Henry Cavill Lost the Chance to Play Edward Cullen, Bond, and More
If 'Man of Steel' Henry Cavill isn't on your radar yet, his role in the sure-to-be-hit film will most certainly change that. But what most people don't know is that Cavill could have already been a major movie star had he locked in a few plum roles he was considered for. Here are a list of films that you could have seen Cavill in... if only he had gotten the part. [Image: Warner Bros.]
From Unluckiest Man in Hollywood to Superman
If 'Man of Steel' Henry Cavill isn't on your radar yet, his role in the sure-to-be-hit film will most certainly change that. But what most people don't know is that Cavill could have already been a major movie star had he locked in a few plum roles he was considered for. Here are a list of films that you could have seen Cavill in... if only he had gotten the part. [Image: Warner Bros.]
'Twilight' (2008)
If 'Twilight' author Stephenie Meyer had her way, Cavill — not Robert Pattinson — would have played glittery vampire heartthrob Edward Cullen. According to Meyer, Henry Cavill was her "perfect Edward," but by the time the series was optioned, Cavill was too old for the part. To think: Cavill would have saved us hours of reading about Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson's off-screen romance. [Image: Summit Entertainment]
'Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire' (2005)
Seems Cavill and Pattinson are interchangeable in Hollywood. The 'Man of Steel' actor was also a fan favorite for another role that went to Pattinson: Cedric Diggory. (And after getting up close an personal with Cavill in 'The Tudors,' our sincerest apologies to 'Twilight' fans that Pattinson didn't score that one as well.) [Image: Warner Bros.]
'Casino Royale' (2006)
This one had to hurt. Cavill was on the shortlist for the 007 reboot of the James Bond franchise. And then on the short short list — in the end, the decision came down to Daniel Craig and Cavill. Cavill, unfortunately, was deemed too young for the part. [Image: MGM]
'The Green Lantern' (2011)
The actor's name was tossed around for the green-hued hero when casting was underway in 2009. But after the film received lackluster reviews, it seemed Cavill dodged a speeding bullet. [Image: Warner Bros.]
'Batman Begins' (2005)
It's hard to think of anyone other than Christian Bale playing the dark knight in Christopher Nolan's trilogy, but several actors were considered for the role, including Cavill. But Bale was the best fit, sending Cavill straight out of Gotham. [Image: Warner Bros.]
'Superman Returns' (2006)
Yes, that's right: Superman once lost the role of... Superman. He was director McG's choice for the role, until the director's fear of flying forced him out of the job. (We're aware of the irony.) After Bryan Singer came on board to direct, Brandon Routh instead was locked in as the lead. The film received middling reviews, and no sequel was ever made... leaving room for Cavill to don the cape in 'Man of Steel.' [Image: Warner Bros.]
