Follow us on Google News
Get the latest updates directly in your Google News feed
When we reminisce about the cult classics that defined our childhood Halloweens,Hocus Pocusundoubtedly makes the cut. Yet, in a twist of Hollywood fate, imagine an alternate universe where instead of Omri Katz, it was the enigmatic Leonardo DiCaprio who played the role of Max Dennison. The very foundation of the 1993 Disney film could have been altered.
The Alluring Offer Leonardo DiCaprio Turned Down
In 1993, Leonardo DiCaprio, who had gained recognition through his appearances on the popular TV show Growing Pains, was not yet a global superstar. It was only a few years later, after his roles in movies such asRomeo + JulietandTitanic, that he achieved worldwide fame.
Suggested Article:Jessica Alba Was Kidnapped From a Movie Set? Fantastic Four Actor Was Reportedly Missing For 14 Hours Before She Was Found in a Car Boot
During this period, Kenny Ortega was searching for the ideal actor to play Max Dennison in Hocus Pocus, and DiCaprio’s career trajectory aligned perfectly with this search. According to director Ortega, his first encounter with DiCaprio is a famous and unusual story.
In a 2017 interview, Ortega recalled how casting agents informed him that an actor was coming to meet him, but he was not available and that Ortega would fall in love with him, but he couldn’t have him. As expressed toEntertainment Weekly, the director was completely charmed by the young actor’s charisma during their meeting. DiCaprio had the perfect combination of sincerity and wildness.
“The [casting] ladies called me up, and they said, ‘We’re sending you an actor today, but he’s not available, but you’re going to fall in love with him, but you can’t have him.’ I’m like, ‘Why are you teasing me?’ They were like, ‘You need to see this guy because he’ll inspire you and if nothing else, he’ll help you find the right guy to play Max.’ And they send me in a young Leonardo DiCaprio, who I completely and absolutely fall in love with. He’s just the most sincere and most centered and a wild child at the same time.”
Just like many young actors making bold decisions in Hollywood, DiCaprio knew what he was getting into. Even though the actor was offered an astounding amount of money, he chose to take a different path.
Also Read:“I do mostly old-school liftings with a lot of squats”: Even the Wolverine Hugh Jackman Hates Leg Days, Reveals the One Exercise He Could Happily Do For His Entire Life
The Oscar Nod That Validated Leonardo DiCaprio’s Choice
Back in 1993, DiCaprio had recently screen-tested with Robert De Niro forThis Boy’s Life. However, what really caught his attention was another indie project calledWhat’s Eating Gilbert Grape.Despite not having a confirmed audition, DiCaprio was willing to take a risk by passing on a potential payday from Disney in order to take on a more substantial role in a smaller film.
Leonardo DiCaprio’sdecision to chooseWhat’s Eating Gilbert GrapeoverHocus Pocuswas a deliberate move to establish himself as a serious actor. His portrayal of the intellectually disabled Arnie Grape was not just heartfelt but also showcased a maturity far beyond his years.
Read More:“I’m gonna get serious for a second”: Lindsay Lohan Was Deeply Hurt With Her Alleged S*x List, Refused to Harm Hollywood Actors’ Reputation With a Befitting Response
This commitment did not go unnoticed as he clinched an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor, becoming the seventh-youngest nominee in the category. Leonardo DiCaprio’s career took off after his role inTitanic,where he played the passionate Jack Dawson.
The Hollywood celeb continued to take on challenging characters, such as the gritty Jordan Belfort inThe Wolf of Wall Street. Through his performances, audiences were introduced to an actor who was unafraid to push boundaries.
Source:Entertainment Weekly
Mabel Andrady
Senior Writer
Articles Published :694
Mabel, aka MJ, is a FandomWire Sr. Writer, pop-culture fanatic, and an MA in Health Demography holder. When she’s not indulging in her guilty pleasure of penning everything Hollywood, Marvel & DC, she writes academic essays on COVID-19 and HIV/AIDS. With 2500+ articles published online, she brings a unique twist to entertainment writing. A jack-of-all-trades, MJ enjoys movies, writes/acts in plays, writes music, and dreams of being a successful actress. She offers a fresh perspective, making her writing a must-read for those seeking knowledge and entertainment.
