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Initial pick for 'Edward Scissorhands' role was not Johnny Depp

Despite Johnny Depp's portrayal of Edward Scissorhands being widely recognized as a career highlight, it's intriguing to note that Depp wasn't initially slated for the part. In fact, the 62-year-old actor joined the cast later in the game.

Johnny Scissorhands' lead role originally didn't go to Johnny Depp initially
Johnny Scissorhands' lead role originally didn't go to Johnny Depp initially

Initial pick for 'Edward Scissorhands' role was not Johnny Depp

In a fascinating twist of fate, Gary Oldman, known for his iconic role in "The Dark Knight," was initially chosen to portray the titular character in Tim Burton's masterpiece, "Edward Scissorhands." However, Oldman declined the role, setting the stage for Johnny Depp to make the part his own and cement his place in cinema history.

At the time, Oldman found the script for "Edward Scissorhands" quirky and strange, and the concept did not immediately appeal to him. This initial confusion was partly due to Tim Burton's distinctive style not yet being well known or fully appreciated. Consequently, Oldman never met with Burton to discuss the role, allowing Depp to step into the iconic shoes of the artificial man with scissors for hands.

After seeing the completed film, Oldman acknowledged its unique appeal and came to appreciate Burton's vision. Unfortunately, by then, Depp had already made the role his own, creating an enduring and memorable performance that has become synonymous with the film.

It's worth noting that Oldman's agent believed he had a good chance of getting the role, joining a list of other notable actors considered for the part, including Jim Carrey, Tom Cruise, Tom Hanks, and John Cusack. Despite this, it was Depp who ultimately took on the challenge, kickstarting a successful collaboration with Burton that would become a signature director-actor partnership.

"Edward Scissorhands" is now considered one of Depp's most prominent works in his career, and it remains a beloved film in Burton's extensive portfolio. As for Oldman, he continues to captivate audiences with his powerful performances, proving that even a missed opportunity can lead to a successful and illustrious career in Hollywood.

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