The Rock's Career Move That Blocked Another Actor's Bond Dreams

Karl Urban has appeared in some of Hollywood's biggest franchises. Star Trek, Lord of the Rings, Marvel movies. Even a quick appearance in a Star Wars film. But one major franchise slipped through his fingers: James Bond.

The New Zealand actor came surprisingly close to landing the 007 role after Pierce Brosnan's departure following Die Another Day. Urban made it deep into the casting process, meeting with producer Barbara Broccoli and other key decision-makers. Casino Royale director Martin Campbell, also from New Zealand, may have helped Urban's chances.

A Scheduling Nightmare

"There was a period when they were casting it the last time around where I'd met with Barbara Broccoli and various other producers," Urban told Nine. "Unfortunately, I was shooting another movie, and I couldn't do the final test."

That other movie? Doom. The 2005 video game adaptation directed by Andrzej Bartkowiak became Urban's career roadblock. He played John 'Reaper' Grimm, taking on the role of the game's protagonist known as 'Doomguy.'

Doom flopped spectacularly. Like most video game movies before 2020, it failed to capture what made its source material compelling. The film offered little beyond generic action sequences and poor writing, though it did feature an innovative first-person perspective climax.

The Dwayne Johnson Connection

Here's where things get interesting. Dwayne Johnson was originally offered Urban's role as the main character. The former wrestler, still building his acting career but already wielding considerable influence, had different ideas. Johnson chose to play Sarge, the team leader, instead of the protagonist.

If Johnson had taken the lead role, Urban might have had a lighter filming schedule. Or maybe he would have passed on Doom entirely. Either scenario could have freed him up for that crucial Bond screen test.

The casting process for Casino Royale was competitive. Henry Cavill came close but lost out because producers thought he was out of shape. Sam Worthington was considered. Christian Bale was actually offered the part but turned it down.

No Regrets

Daniel Craig ultimately won the role, playing Bond across five films over 15 years. His portrayal redefined the character for a new generation.

Urban holds no grudges about missing out. "I'm actually pretty grateful I didn't because I think Daniel Craig did such an extraordinary job," he admitted. "I couldn't have imagined a better Bond."

The actor's career flourished anyway. His roles in major franchises proved his versatility and star power. But the Bond opportunity remains one of Hollywood's great what-ifs, all because of a scheduling conflict with a forgettable video game movie.