Keanu Reeves (58) embodied some iconic figures in cinema history with Neo in Matrix and John Wick in the eponymous film series. However, one role was denied to the popular actor.
Which film is it about? In 1999, Keanu Reeves established himself as a Hollywood superstar with his role as hacker Neo in the sci-fi film “Matrix”. But he already had his eye on the next big film series:
In an interview with the Australian magazine Rip It Up, he revealed back then that he wanted to travel through Middle-earth alongside Frodo in “The Lord of the Rings”.
A man to play them
Which role was he aiming for? Keanu Reeves likely felt made for the role of Aragorn – and he was ready to do anything for it. He reported to Rip It Up about his desire to get the part:
I want to play Strider in The Lord of the Rings […] and I might have to beg for the role. I have people making calls now. I hope he [Peter Jackson] thinks I am the right person for the part. I am your man. I’m here.
Despite all his efforts, Keanu Reeves came up empty-handed. As known, it was Viggo Mortensen who got to portray the rightful heir of Gondor. In any case, the decision did not hinder the success of the franchise.
The Lord of the Rings was celebrated by both audiences and critics, grossed nearly 3 billion USD worldwide, and became the most awarded film series in Oscar history with 30 nominations and 17 awards.
Did you know that Keanu Reeves wanted to be in The Lord of the Rings back then? Can you imagine the actor in the role of Aragorn, or are you glad that Peter Jackson made a different choice back then? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
