When it comes to the Top Gun role, it’s interesting to note that Tom Cruise initially didn’t want to be a part of the film. Despite being the first name on the list after John Travolta turned down the role, Cruise also turned it down initially. This decision might come as a surprise to many, considering how iconic his portrayal of Maverick has become.
After Cruise’s refusal, the film’s executives began considering other actors for the role. One of the first actors they turned to was Patrick Swayze, who had gained popularity for his roles in films like Dirty Dancing and Red Dawn. However, Swayze also declined the opportunity to star in Top Gun.
Next on the list was Emilio Estevez, who had made a name for himself in movies such as The Breakfast Club and St. Elmo’s Fire. Unfortunately, Estevez also turned down the role, leaving the executives searching for the perfect fit for Maverick.
Nicolas Cage, known for his diverse range of roles in films like Raising Arizona and Moonstruck, was another actor considered for the part. However, he ultimately decided against taking on the role of Maverick in Top Gun.
John Cusack, Matthew Broderick, and Sean Penn were also in the running for the role. Cusack had gained recognition for his performances in films like Say Anything and Sixteen Candles, while Broderick had starred in the iconic Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. Penn, known for his intense and dramatic roles, was also considered. However, all three actors chose not to pursue the role.
Michael J. Fox, who had become a household name through his role in the Back to the Future trilogy, was another actor who turned down the chance to play Maverick in Top Gun. Fox’s decision likely disappointed many fans who would have loved to see his charismatic energy on screen in the film.
It is worth mentioning that while these actors turned down the role, they each went on to have successful careers and left their mark on the film industry in other ways. Ultimately, the role of Maverick went back to Tom Cruise, who reconsidered and accepted the part. This decision proved to be a turning point in his career, solidifying his status as a leading Hollywood actor.
Several well-known actors, including Patrick Swayze, Emilio Estevez, Nicolas Cage, John Cusack, Matthew Broderick, Sean Penn, and Michael J. Fox, turned down the opportunity to play Maverick in Top Gun before Tom Cruise eventually accepted the role.