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There have only been a few times over the course of his career that Adam Sandler has taken a break from his prolific comedic film career to venture into the world of serious, dramatic acting. Most recently, that’s on display in the upcoming film “Uncut Gems,” which is set to be released next month and will likely earn Sandler some award nominations. He’s that good. Well, according to a new report, the actor was pretty close to not being the man who brought the character of Howard Ratner to life.

READ MORE: ‘Uncut Gems’ & ‘The Lighthouse’ Top 2020 Independent Spirit Awards Nominations

In a profile from NY Times Magazine, it’s revealed that Josh and Benny Safdie originally wanted Adam Sandler for the lead in “Uncut Gems.” However, a deal to get Sandler into that role wasn’t easy. In fact, at multiple points in the pre-production on the film, other actors were attached to the role, including Sacha Baron Cohen and the previously-announced Jonah Hill. Ultimately, as we know now, Sandler was convinced to take on the project.

“We wanted you to root for him to win,” Benny Safdie said. “Sandler, we knew, could bring that out of him.”

Part of the hesitation for Sandler apparently came from the subject matter in “Uncut Gems,” which (without posting spoilers) includes some…less than savory situations involving drugs, sex, and criminal behavior. But not only that, the actor was also happy doing his Netflix movies, which tend to film during the summertime when he can be with his kids and feature tons of his usual buddies.

READ MORE: ‘Uncut Gems’: Adam Sandler Is Ferocious In The Safdie Brothers’ Latest Insane, Cocaine-Fueled New York Street Hustle [Telluride Review]

Netflix says that Sandler’s content has been streamed for more than 500 million hours on the streaming service, which shows just how valuable the actor is when he does comedy.

But thankfully for film fans, we got Sandler in the lead and he absolutely crushes it. “Uncut Gems” will be in theaters beginning on December 13.