It's one of those 'what if?' facts that sends your mind into a frenzy wondering how differently things could've been if an alternate decision were made: back in the early 00s the late actor Heath Ledger turned down the lead role of Spider Man, leaving the iconic comic book web slinger to be played by Tobey Maguire.



It's coming up to the anniversary of The Dark Knight actor's death (RIP), and the Express reports that in tribute, CAA agent Steve Alexander revealed the tidbit that Ledger was in fact first choice for the major role.

In an interview with Entertainment Weekly magazine, Alexander said: "Sony asked me to come over and read the script for Spider-Man. It was going to be a really cool tentpole movie. But as soon as I said 'Spider-Man' Heath said, 'It's not for me. I would be taking someone else's dream away'."

Credit: PA

Advert

What a truly selfless act - even after his death, Ledger is still proving himself to be an absolute Hollywood legend.

There aren't many actors who would pass up the chance to play such an famous and lucrative role. You could perhaps argue that he missed a trick slightly, as Maguire went on to gain blockbuster glory with three Spider Man movies, raking in millions of pounds.

However, as we all know, Ledger's comic book moment came when he made history with his role as The Joker in the Batman Begins sequel The Dark Knight. And boy did he pull it out of the bag, pouring his heart and soul into the part, which was made all the more poignant as his last ever movie.

Warner Bros.

Advert

Even after his death Ledger drew in a Golden Globe and Oscar award for the performance, and made it to the top of Rankers' list for 'Best Movie Villains Of All Time'.

So yes, you could argue Ledger made a mistake in turning down the chance to play Spider-Man. But when you consider what followed, it seems Ledger used his spidey senses on the decision and awaited a more fitting role.