It seems that veteran actor Sir Anthony Hopkins has a problem with DC Studios and the DCU (formerly DCEU). Having been offered the role in a Batman movie twice, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Michael Caine replaced the actor both times.
Talking about the olden days, Anthony Hopkins recalled his fair share of rejects and disliked scripts that eventually turned out great. The actor’s role was instead given to Arnold Schwarzenegger and in the future, Hopkins also denied Christopher Nolan to star in his iconic 2005 movie.
When Anthony Hopkins Rejected Two Batman Roles!
Known for portraying the role of Hannibal Lecter in The Silence of the Lambs, Anthony Hopkins had already found international fame by the year 1991. The actor went on to star in several iconic movies further in his career but also rejected some great movies during his time.
After his success, Hopkins was approached by Joel Schumacher to portray the antagonistic role of Mr. Freeze. When the actor rejected the role, the director then approached Arnold Schwarzenegger and Hulk Hogan to take on the role. In the end, the role of Mr. Freeze went on to The Terminator actor who had a pretty great time working on the movie.
When the years took their time, Anthony Hopkins was once again approached by director Christopher Nolan for the role of Bruce Wayne’s butler/parent Alfred. The Hannibal actor went on to reject this role also with Michael Cain replacing the actor for the role of Alfred. Although being 85 years of age, the Red Dragon actor still has a plethora of upcoming projects to his name for the people to witness.
The latest upcoming project sees Anthony Hopkins dressed as a Roman Emperor with a gladiator-esque series set against the backdrop of some political drama that will have fans hooked.
Anthony Hopkins Will Become A Roman Emperor In Upcoming Project
With the success of the Russel Crowe starrer and Ridley Scott-directed Gladiator back in 2000, a similar series/movie was bound to be in the works. Luckily, it won’t be a total disaster since Sir Anthony Hopkins is associated with the role of a Roman Emperor.
As per Variety, Hopkins is set to portray the role of Emperor Vespasian and the series will be set against the backdrop of political drama along with some historical accuracy (hopefully). Alongside Hopkins, many notable names from the industry are already attached to the series. And yes…the upcoming series is titled Those About to Die.
Source: Uproxx