Brad Pitt, Robert Downey Jr. and Keanu Reeves, these are three names worth their weight in gold today. Assuming that they no longer need to audition for the roles they want, there was a time in the life of every aspiring actor when they had to give up before finding the project that changed everything.
But the craziest part is that the aforementioned trio once auditioned for the same role – to no avail. Think Backdraft, Ron Howard’s 1991 action film starring Kurt Russell, William Baldwin, Robert De Niro, Donald Sutherland, and Jennifer Jason Leigh: Three big-name actors really benefited from playing Brian McCaffrey. And finally it is William Baldwin who won
just to refresh your memory, BackdraftThis is the story of two brothers, Stephen (Kurt Russell) and Brian McCaffrey (William Baldwin), who decided to become a firefighter after witnessing the tragic death of his father, an elite officer in the Chicago Fire Department.
Twenty years later, while Stephen has become a successful firefighter, Brian survives by doing odd jobs. Back in Chicago, he decided to resume training anyway – under the skeptical eye of his brother. But when a series of fires hits the city, they are forced to put aside their differences to solve the mystery surrounding these explosive crimes.
Now that you have this brief in mind, discover youth listening Brad Pitt, Robert Downey Jr. and Keanu ReevesCompiled in the video below in which Ron Howard will also appear.
Who else could have starred in the film?
According to rumors, Johnny Depp was supposed to take the role of Brian McCaffrey, but turned down the offer. Likewise for Val Kilmer. According to Empire magazine, Dennis Quaid turned down the role of Stephen McCaffrey, which was eventually cast. Kurt Russell.
As for the female lead, Jennifer Waitkus, names such as Meg Ryan (who also turned down the role) and Anjelica Huston have been floated. According to his agent, the latter was offered the role, but was so busy with The Addams Family at the time that he had to turn it down. That’s why the role fell Jennifer Jason Lee.
Backdraft may reappear on VOD.
Source: Allocine
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
