The Role Jim Carrey Lost to Johnny Depp That Could Have Changed Everything

It’s one of Hollywood’s most intriguing what-ifs: Jim Carrey, the comedic genius known for his over-the-top performances, almost played some of the most iconic roles in film history—roles that instead went to Johnny Depp. From Edward Scissorhands to Pirates of the Caribbean, Carrey and Depp were often on a collision course, with the latter frequently coming out on top. But despite losing out on major opportunities, Carrey’s career trajectory remained remarkably successful, cementing him as a comedy legend. Here’s a look back at the roles Carrey almost landed—and how Depp swooped in instead.

The 1990s: Edward Scissorhands and the Birth of a Bromance

The story begins in 1990 when Jim Carrey was still finding his footing in comedy clubs and sketch shows. At the time, he was already dreaming big about making it to the big screen. According to Vulture, Carrey was reportedly in the running for the role of Edward in Tim Burton’s Edward Scissorhands. He wasn’t the only one, with Tom Cruise and Robert Downey Jr. also vying for the part. But Burton, having recently discovered Depp’s unique, quirky energy, handed the blades to the future star, launching a cinematic bromance that would span decades.

The film went on to become a cult classic, and Depp’s portrayal of the misunderstood, scissor-handed man became iconic. Burton, recognizing Depp’s potential, would continue to cast him in multiple films, including Ed Wood, Sleepy Hollow, Sweeney Todd, and Corpse Bride. Meanwhile, Carrey—despite his growing popularity—was left on the sidelines, watching from afar as Depp and Burton built a lasting creative partnership.

The 2000s: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and the Jack Sparrow Near-Miss

By 1994, Carrey had fully established himself as a box-office powerhouse, with Ace Ventura: Pet Detective, The Mask, and Dumb and Dumber turning him into an unstoppable comedy phenomenon. But despite his newfound fame, the Burton-Depp duo continued to overshadow Carrey’s potential for more dramatic or whimsical roles.

In 2005, Carrey was reportedly considered for the role of Willy Wonka in Burton’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. With his manic energy and wide-eyed charm, Carrey seemed like the perfect fit for the eccentric candy maker. However, once again, Depp snagged the part, bringing his own unique, twitchy take on the character. While Charlie and the Chocolate Factory grossed a staggering $475 million worldwide, Depp’s performance was divisive, with some fans loving it and others finding it unsettling. But Carrey’s potential portrayal remains a “what if” in the minds of many.

But it wasn’t just Charlie that Carrey lost out on. In one of the biggest jaw-dropping twists of Hollywood casting, Carrey was reportedly in the mix for the role of Jack Sparrow in Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003). Can you imagine Jim Carrey as the swashbuckling, rum-soaked pirate? The thought of Carrey’s slapstick style meshing with the pirate persona is a wild ride in itself, complete with talking parrots and exaggerated physical comedy.

Instead, Depp redefined the role, playing Sparrow as a rockstar pirate who’d spent too much time at sea. Depp’s quirky, flamboyant portrayal became one of his signature performances, earning him an Academy Award nomination and launching the Pirates franchise into global success. The role turned Depp into a certified A-lister, and it would spawn four sequels, cementing his place as one of Hollywood’s biggest stars.

Carrey’s Triumphs: Bruce Almighty and Dr. Robotnik

While Depp was busy becoming a blockbuster titan, Carrey continued to thrive in his own way. In 2003, Carrey headlined Bruce Almighty, a hit comedy where he portrayed a man who temporarily gains god-like powers. His performance was a massive hit, and the film grossed nearly $500 million worldwide. Carrey’s ability to take on larger-than-life roles and bring them to life with his trademark comedic energy continued to solidify his legacy in Hollywood.

In more recent years, Carrey proved that he could still go big and bizarre, even in his later career. His portrayal of the villainous Dr. Robotnik in the Sonic the Hedgehog films was a return to his zany, over-the-top style, reminding audiences of why he became a comedy legend in the first place.

A Wild Hollywood Collision Course

Looking back, it’s almost comical how many times Jim Carrey came so close to snagging roles that would later define Johnny Depp’s career. From Edward Scissorhands to Pirates of the Caribbean, the two stars’ paths collided on more than one occasion, with Depp usually coming out victorious.

But Carrey’s career trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. While Depp became Burton’s muse, Carrey became the king of comedy, delivering memorable performances in films that continue to entertain audiences around the world. Both actors have found their places in Hollywood history, though their careers took distinctly different paths.

Carrey’s near-misses with Depp’s iconic roles are a testament to the unpredictability of Hollywood casting, where timing, vision, and chemistry often play a pivotal role. And while Carrey may have lost out on some of those major roles, his own legacy as a comedic genius is undeniably secure, proving that sometimes, it’s better to be the one making audiences laugh than the one chasing a cinematic masterpiece.