Mel Gibson is an Australian-American actor, director, and filmmaker. He achieved renown through roles in movies such as Braveheart, for which he received Oscars, and his involvement in the Lethal Weapon franchise. Despite controversies, Gibson continues to be a prominent presence in Hollywood, celebrated for his skills both as an actor and filmmaker. However, he never got to work with Matt Damon and Leonardo DiCaprio.
During his Oscar acceptance speech for Best Director, Martin Scorsese humorously quipped that The Departed marked his first foray into a film with a discernible plot. His earlier cinematic masterpieces, such as Taxi Driver and Goodfellas, primarily delved into intricate character studies, prioritizing the individuals over the narrative events. Mel Gibson was offered a role in the film.
Mel Gibson Turned Down A Role In The Departed
In Martin Scorsese’s acclaimed crime thriller The Departed, which secured the Best Picture award, the film boasts an ensemble of powerhouse actors delivering performances at the zenith of their abilities. Among these notable portrayals is Alec Baldwin’s rendition of the audacious police captain, George Ellerby.
Yet, before the role was secured by Baldwin, it had been extended to Mel Gibson, who regrettably had to decline the offer due to his commitment to directing the Mayan epic, Apocalypto.
Although Matt Damon, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Jack Nicholson ultimately proved to be ideal choices for the film, they weren’t the initial contenders. Unverified speculation suggests that Al Pacino may have been under consideration for the role of Frank Costello, RZA declined the opportunity to portray Trooper Brown.
The Departed Isn’t The Only Role Mel Gibson Turned Down
Ridley Scott’s monumental historical drama, Gladiator, has etched its place in cinema history, catapulting several of its key actors to newfound fame. Russell Crowe, in particular, stepped into the spotlight with his portrayal of Maximus, a Roman general turned gladiator slave, earning him an Oscar for Best Actor. Interestingly, the role could have been taken on by Mel Gibson, who was initially offered the part before ultimately declining it, transitioning from his iconic blue Scottish face paint to gladiator armor.
The character of Oskar Schindler, had it been portrayed by Mel Gibson, would have posed a significant risk to the actor’s reputation, especially in light of his infamous anti-Semitic outburst during a 2006 arrest. Fortunately, this potential controversy was averted, as director Steven Spielberg believed that Gibson’s star status could overshadow the essential narrative of Schindler’s List.
Whenever there’s a casting change for James Bond in a new series of films, it’s natural for numerous renowned actors to be contenders for the iconic role. Such was the situation when Goldeneye was in the casting process, introducing a fresh incarnation of Bond, eventually portrayed by Pierce Brosnan. It’s admittedly challenging to envision a scenario where Mel Gibson assumes the mantle of 007.
Also Read: “That nearly killed me”: Mel Gibson Almost Died on a Movie Set Before a Stunt Double Saved His Life
