Summary
- Christopher Walken recalls auditioning for Han Solo in
Star Wars
, but ultimately Harrison Ford won the iconic role. - Jodie Foster also auditioned for
Star Wars
, declining Princess Leia due to a Disney movie commitment. - Walken now stars in
Dune: Part Two
alongside Timothée Chalamet, offering a new chapter in his storied career.
In a recent revelation that has stirred the memories of film enthusiasts, Christopher Walken shared his experience auditioning for a role in the original Star Wars film. As the veteran actor currently graces the screen in Dune: Part Two as Emperor Shaddam IV, this tidbit from his past adds an intriguing layer to his storied career.
I think it was for Han Solo. Yes, I auditioned for it.
Star Wars, which debuted nearly fifty years ago, has left a lasting impact on cinema and continues to attract audiences. However, before Harrison Ford became synonymous with the charming rogue Han Solo, a young Christopher Walken threw his hat into the ring for the role. In a recent conversation with Vanity Fair, Walken recounted his audition experience, which included reading lines alongside Jodie Foster. “I think it was for Han Solo,” Walken said. “Yes, I auditioned for it. And if I’m not mistaken, my partner in the audition was – I think this is true – it was Jodie Foster… I did audition for Star Wars, but so did about 500 other actors.“
Recently on The Tonight Show, Foster disclosed her audition for Star Wars, mentioning she declined the role of Princess Leia because of her existing commitment to a Disney movie. Foster explained:
“They were going for a younger Princess Leia but I had a conflict. I was doing a Disney movie and I just didn’t want to pull out of the Disney movie because I was already under contract … And they did an amazing job. I don’t know how good I would have been. I might have had different hair. I might have gone with a pineapple.”
Christopher Walken’s Villainous Roles
Christopher Walken has given some of his best-ever performances by playing the following villainous characters.
Dune: Part Two Brings Christopher Walken into the Fold of an Epic Saga
Fast forward to the present, Walken is part of the ensemble cast in Dune: Part Two, a sequel that continues the saga of Paul Atreides and his journey to avenge his family and fulfill his destiny. The film, directed by Denis Villeneuve, boasts an impressive cast including Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, and Florence Pugh, and is based on Frank Herbert’s seminal novel.
Dune: Part Two promises to be an epic continuation of the story, exploring themes of power, loyalty, and destiny. The film will delve deeper into Paul’s alliance with Chani and the Fremen, as they navigate the treacherous landscape of Arrakis and the political intrigue that threatens the known universe.
Dune: Part Two
is currently showing in theaters.
As audiences enjoy the cinematic marvel that is Dune: Part Two, Christopher Walken’s reflection on his Star Wars audition serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of casting in Hollywood. It’s fascinating to consider how different the Star Wars universe might have been with Walken as Han Solo. However, as he takes on the role of Emperor Shaddam IV in the Dune sequel, fans can look forward to seeing his talent unfold in yet another iconic franchise.
