Audrey Hepburn Turned Down These Blockbusters—And Hollywood Never Looked the Same

Audrey Hepburn, one of Hollywood’s most beloved and influential actresses, had a career that seemed unstoppable. From her Oscar-winning performance in Roman Holiday (1953) to her iconic roles in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, My Fair Lady, and Sabrina, Hepburn became synonymous with elegance, grace, and talent. However, even with her impressive filmography and near-universal acclaim, Hepburn turned down several notable roles that later became iconic in their own right. These decisions, although rarely a regret, highlight the actress’s unique career path and offer a glimpse into the “what could have been” scenarios in cinematic history.

1. Hitchcock’s Suspense: The Birds and Vertigo

Two of Alfred Hitchcock’s most famous films, The Birds (1963) and Vertigo (1958), were initially eyed by Hepburn for key roles. The actress was reportedly considered for the role of Melanie Daniels in The Birds, a character who would come to be immortalized by Tippi Hedren. Additionally, Hitchcock sought Hepburn for the dual role of Judy Barton and Madeleine Elster in Vertigo, a role that ultimately went to Kim Novak. Both films went on to become quintessential Hitchcock thrillers, but Hepburn, with her distinct style and charm, would have brought a unique dimension to these performances. While Hitchcock’s other collaborations with stars like Grace Kelly and Kim Novak are legendary, it’s intriguing to consider how Hepburn could have shaped these iconic characters.

2. A Bridge Too Far: Personal History and Professional Choice

In 1977, Richard Attenborough’s A Bridge Too Far was another major film Hepburn turned down. The film, which depicted the events of Operation Market Garden during World War II, would have hit too close to home for Hepburn. During the war, she had lived in the village of Velp near Arnhem, which was a key location during the battle. The trauma of the war likely led her to reject the role, choosing to avoid a film that might have been too emotionally intense. This decision was entirely personal, but it’s worth noting that the film was a star-studded ensemble, with actors like Sean Connery, Michael Caine, and Gene Hackman, making it a significant missed opportunity in terms of potential career prestige.

3. The Grandeur of Cleopatra

In 1963, when Elizabeth Taylor was initially hesitant about taking on the iconic role of Cleopatra, producer Walter Wanger suggested Audrey Hepburn as a potential replacement. However, Hepburn declined, likely due to the overwhelming scale and drama of the production, which eventually became notorious for its tumultuous shoot and extravagant budget. Taylor went on to make history with the role, earning the first million-dollar paycheck in Hollywood history. Although Hepburn’s career never saw a film of such a massive scope, her decision allowed her to maintain her focus on the kinds of roles that matched her more subtle and refined talents.

4. Doctor Zhivago: A Missed Russian Epic

David Lean, the legendary director behind Lawrence of Arabia and The Bridge on the River Kwai, actively pursued Hepburn to play Tonya Gromeko in his 1965 epic Doctor Zhivago. The role eventually went to Geraldine Chaplin, but Hepburn’s involvement would have brought an added layer of sophistication to the character. Hepburn’s reputation for embodying graceful, strong women could have shaped the role differently, but her personal life at the time proved to be an obstacle. Lean explained that Hepburn, living in Rome with her Italian husband, was not willing to travel for the production, leading her to ultimately pass on the opportunity.

5. The Exorcist: A Role That Went to Ellen Burstyn

One of the most shocking roles Hepburn turned down was Chris MacNeil in The Exorcist (1973). Director William Friedkin pursued Hepburn for the role, but after initial discussions, she made it clear that she would only work in Rome. Once Friedkin learned that this condition was non-negotiable, Hepburn was no longer a contender, and the role went to Ellen Burstyn. The Exorcist went on to become one of the most successful and terrifying films in horror history, but it’s interesting to imagine how Hepburn’s elegance would have contrasted with the terrifying nature of the film’s storyline.

6. Gigi: The Role Hepburn Turned Down Twice

Having already portrayed the title role of Gigi on Broadway, Hepburn was offered the chance to reprise her performance on the big screen in 1958. The role eventually went to Leslie Caron, whose portrayal became legendary. While Hepburn’s name being attached to the film could have brought a different energy to the character, Gigi went on to make history by winning nine Academy Awards, including Best Picture, setting an Oscar record that remains unbroken. Hepburn’s decision to turn down this opportunity was surely a tough one, particularly given the immense success the film achieved.

7. Out of Africa: A Missed Opportunity for Hepburn

Before Meryl Streep took on the role of Karen Blixen in 1985’s Out of Africa, Hepburn was reportedly offered the part. Streep’s portrayal of Blixen became one of her most iconic performances, earning her an Academy Award. Hepburn’s rejection of the role further solidified her desire to maintain a specific type of role throughout her career—one that was deeply rooted in grace and restraint.

8. West Side Story: The Role of Maria

Before Rita Moreno made history with her portrayal of Anita in West Side Story (1961), Audrey Hepburn was offered the role of Maria. However, Hepburn declined, and the role went to Natalie Wood. Despite being one of the most celebrated musicals of all time, Hepburn’s choice to turn down West Side Story meant that the role would be passed on to someone else who would make it their own. Given Hepburn’s dedication to her craft, this missed opportunity was likely another reflection of her desire to avoid being boxed into one type of role.

Conclusion: Hepburn’s Legacy, With or Without the Missed Roles

While Hepburn turned down several iconic roles throughout her career, her legacy in Hollywood remains untarnished. Whether it was in her unforgettable performances in Breakfast at Tiffany’s or My Fair Lady, Hepburn built a career defined by elegance, grace, and understated power. The roles she rejected might have altered the course of her career, but Hepburn’s impact on the film industry cannot be measured by what she passed on. Instead, it is shaped by the roles she took on, each one becoming an enduring part of cinematic history.