“Hollywood never takes risks anymore”: Johnny Depp Wanted to Star in Titanic Remake After Refusing $2.2B Movie That Went to Leonardo DiCaprio

Johnny Depp is one of Hollywood’s most acclaimed and beloved actors, with a career spanning over three decades.

Known for his chameleon-like ability to transform into any character, Depp has delivered unforgettable performances in a wide range of films.

Johnny Depp

Despite his fame and success, Depp has also faced personal and professional challenges.

Still, his dedicated fan base continues to appreciate his talent and the unique charm he brings to each role.

However, the actor has refused some roles that went on to become classics.

Why Did Johnny Depp Refuse To Star In Titanic

During an interview with Rolling Stones, Depp expressed his desire to be a part of the highly anticipated sequel to the blockbuster movie Titanic.

Before Leonardo DiCaprio accepted Jack Dawson’s role in Titanic, several other renowned actors, such as Johnny Depp, Tom Cruise, Macaulay Culkin, Ethan Hawke, and Brad Pitt, were in the running.

Depp refused the role because he felt the film’s 180-page script was too long.

When asked about a Titanic remake filmed entirely in a bathtub, Depp responded, “That would be great, but Hollywood never takes risks anymore.“

Johnny Depp

Titanic went on to become a timeless classic that captivated audiences around the world.

The movie, directed by James Cameron, follows the story of a doomed romance between a wealthy socialite, Rose (played by Kate Winslet), and a poor artist, Jack (played by Leonardo DiCaprio), aboard the infamous ship RMS Titanic.

The film also became the highest-grossing movie of all time at the box office until its record was broken by Cameron’s own Avatar in 2009.

Johnny Depp’s Long History Of Turning Down Roles

Titanic isn’t the only film that Johnny Depp turned down. The actor has also refused some roles that could have further boosted his career.

Apart from refusing to play Jack’s character in Titanic, the actor has also refused the highly-acclaimed 1999 film The Matrix.

Depp cited his busy schedule at the time as the reason. The role eventually went to Keanu Reeves, and the rest is history.

The Matrix isn’t the only film where Depp’s and Reeves’ paths crossed. Depp was also offered the part of Jack Traven in 1994’s hit film Speed.

Similarly, Depp was also considered for the role of Johnny Utah in the action-thriller Point Break, but the producers chose Reeves instead for the role.

Johnny Depp

Another film that Johnny Depp could’ve been a part of was John Woo’s Face/Off.

Before Woo hired John Travolta for the part, Depp was in the running to play the part.

Amusingly, Depp refused the role after reading the script and realizing that the film wasn’t about hockey.

Titanic is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video and can also be rented or purchased via Google Play.