5 Bollywood actors who refused Hollywood films

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Bollywood stars have always been keen on making headlines in Hollywood so that they can have a wider acclamation and fan following. While actors such as Priyanka Chopra, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Anil Kapoor, Irrfan Khan have done stellar roles in international projects, many others had to settle for a blink and miss role in Hollywood.

But, what many don’t know is how some Indian actors have chosen to turn down offers that came their way. Compiled from Bollywood Journalist, here is a list of five stars that opted out of block buster Hollywood projects – something that remains unknown to most.



1. Dilip Kumar

PHOTO: FILE

Dilip Saab is known and loved as the original heartthrob of Indian cinema, but did you know that Hollywood took notice of his charms pretty early in the day? Well it may come as a surprise but this veteran actor was offered a lead role in the award winning David Lean movie Lawrence of Arabia (1962). But he refused the role which ultimately was bagged by Egyptian actor Omar Sharif.

2. Madhuri Dixit

PHOTO: FILE

This Bollywood Diva was offered a role in an untitled Hollywood movie in a cameo which was a dream sequence in the film. It was about the journey of an American girl who aspired to become a Bollywood heroine. Despite being offered a hefty sum she had to let go of the role as she was not interested in a cameo. Got to give kudos to the Dhak Dhak girl for maintaining high standards.



3. Shah Rukh Khan

PHOTO: FILE

Did you know that the Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham star was the first choice for Danny Boyle’s Slumdog Millionaire? According to reports he was offered Anil Kapoor’s character in the movie but the actor felt that the role was not suited to him. Anil went on to do the film and became a celebrated name in Hollywood.

4. Akshay Kumar

PHOTO: DNA

Akshay Kumar known as the ‘Khiladi Kumar’ of Bollywood is known for his action in Indian films. When a renowned Hollywood studio had to cast an Asian face with action star Dwayne Johnson, Akshay came to mind as a natural choice. However, maintaining his stand of staying clear of Hollywood movies, he turned down the coveted opportunity and stuck to entertaining Indian audiences.



5. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

PHOTO: FILE

The ex-Miss world who is a global icon today was offered a role opposite Hollywood hunk Brad Pitt. Wolfgang Petersen offered the role of ‘Briseis’ to Aishwarya in the Oscar-nominated war movie, Troy. However as the role demanded a lot of intimate scenes with Brad, Aishwarya was not comfortable and let go of the movie. We wonder if she regrets the decision now?

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