Follow us on Google News
Get the latest updates directly in your Google News feed
A unique storyline and thought-provoking messages, that’s howDemolition Mansucceeded in captivating the attention of the audience. Featuring Sylvester Stallone, Wesley Snipes, and Sandra Bullock, the movie transcends viewers into a future world, based on Aldous Huxley’s dystopian novelBrave New World. While many may be familiar with the film, there are intriguing aspects that remain unknown just like some casting dilemmas that unfolded long after its release. One lesser-known fact about the movie is that Jackie Chan refused to star in the movie in order to protect his image.
Debuting number 1 at the box office at the time of its release,Demolition Mangrossed over $159 million worldwide. Hence, it’s difficult to understand what exactly made Jackie Chan refuse the cult-classic movie.
READ MORE:The Expendables Star Jet Li Was Accused of Being A ‘Scoundrel’ Like Jackie Chan for Allegedly Treating Ex-Wife Horribly: “There are a few of these guys in showbiz”
Jackie Chan was concerned about his image
Demolition Manstands out as a sci-fi action flick that not only entertained audiences but also offered an insightful commentary on the potential consequences of pursuing a better world. Reportedly,Sylvester Stalloneoriginally campaigned for the famous martial artist and actorJackie Chanto portray the role of the film’s villain, Simon Phoenix. However, reluctant to portray a negative character, Chan declined the offer.
Well, in his defense, it is difficult to imagine Chan, known for his family-friendly hero roles, embodying the sadistic garb of Simon Phoenix. Moreover, it is also speculated that Chan’s reservations about working on American-made films, as highlighted by his previous experiences such as theRush Hourseries, may have played a part in his decision.
READ MORE:“He felt bad”: Vin Diesel’s Fast X Co-star Got Free Milk and Bag of Chips Because of Jackie Chan
While Jackie Chan’s absence from the cast left a lasting impact, the film’s unique choices and prescient themes continue to resonate with viewers today. But what’s worth noting is thatDemolition Manwas not the only Stallone movie that Chan refused to work in.
When Jackie Chan refused a role inThe Expendables
Despite being approached multiple times, Jackie Chan never graced the screen in the highly popular Expendables movie series. Just likeDemolition Man, Sylvester Stallone, the driving force behind the franchise, was determined to assemble the best actors to entertain the audience. And the core cast, including him, Dolph Lundgren,Jason Statham, Jet Li,Terry Crews, and Randy Couture, successfully managed to do that.
However, once again, Stallone’s first preference, Jackie Chan refused to work on the project. But this time his absence was not because he was offered a villainous role. According to Chan himself, he was offered a role inThe Expendables 2but declined due to scheduling conflicts arising from his commitment to the filmCZ12. Subsequently, it is also known that Chan initially agreed to appear inThe Expendables 3under the condition of a more substantial part but eventually withdrew from the project.
When discussions arose for a potential fourth installment, Jackie Chan shed light on his absence from the previous sequels. Expressing his desire for a more focused pairing, Chan proposed to Stallone,“Sly, why don’t we just do you and me?”While open to the idea ofThe Expendables 4,The Karate Kidactor emphasized that he wants his character to be more involved in the storyline.
READ MORE:Sylvester Stallone Humiliated Jackie Chan’s $80,000,000 Movie – John Cena Swooped in, Saved The Day
Scheduled to release on June 14, 2025,Expend4ablesfeatures Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, Dolph Lundgren along with Megan Fox, Tony Jaa, and Iko Uwais. However, Jackie Chan’s name does not appear among the listed cast members, probably owing to the creative differences he expressed earlier.
Source:Screen Rant,Looper
Devyani Sharma
Articles Published :288
With a portfolio of over 600 articles, Devyani Sharma is a freelance writer working in the Entertainment and Sports niche. With a Master’s Degree in English literature, Devyani places great importance on the power of words and their ability to connect with readers. When not busy watching sci-fi movies, action thrillers and comedies, Devyani indulges in her love for fiction novels and writing about NASCAR races.
