This Iconic Role Almost Went to RDJ Instead of Robin Williams- Here’s How?

Charlie Chaplin, the legendary comic and filmmaker behind some of cinema’s most iconic moments, has been portrayed on screen several times. But perhaps the most acclaimed portrayal was delivered by Robert Downey Jr. in the 1992 biopic Chaplin, directed by Richard Attenborough. The film earned Downey his first Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. In this article we talk about This Iconic Role Almost Went to RDJ Instead of Robin Williams- Here’s How? 

However, Downey was not the first choice to play the iconic role. In fact, he almost lost the part to comedy superstar Robin Williams.

Robin Williams: The Studio’s Preferred Choice

By 1992, Robin Williams had cemented himself as one of the biggest comedic forces in Hollywood. After rising to fame on the sitcom Mork & Mindy, he became a box office sensation with hits like Good Morning, Vietnam and Dead Poets Society. The manic energy and improvisational skills that made him a stand-up legend translated seamlessly to film.

So when Attenborough began work on the Chaplin biopic, studio executives pressured him to cast Williams in the lead role. Other comedians like Billy Crystal were also considered. But Attenborough remained adamant that Downey was the right man to play the silent film trailblazer.

Downey’s Early Career Highs and Lows

While Robin Williams was a proven box office draw, Downey’s career had already seen its share of high highs and low lows. After making an indelible mark in 1980s films like Weird Science, Less Than Zero, and Chances Are, the actor became better known for his drug abuse and stints in rehab.

But Attenborough saw something in the struggling Downey that made him perfect to play Chaplin. And Downey felt deeply connected to the role as well. As he told the Los Angeles Times:

“I know I was supposed to play this. I’ve never had anyone back me the way Attenborough did and I’m so proud that I made the film without having a real nervous breakdown. But I know that he (Chaplin) also had a hand in this, that somehow he and I are connected.”

Attenborough Goes to Bat for Downey

Attenborough later recounted to the LA Times how Universal Pictures refused to finance the film if Downey was cast. The director said:

“Nobody ever said to me, ‘We don’t think Robert can do it.’ But because Robert was neither fish nor fowl–he wasn’t Dusty (Hoffman) nor was he a complete unknown–and because the budget was $30 million, not $20 million, they simply refused to sign his agreement.”

The famed British filmmaker was so committed to Downey that he found alternate financing through Carolco Pictures. This allowed the project to move forward with Downey in the central role.

Downey’s Brilliant Performance Lands Oscar Nomination

When Chaplin finally hit theaters in 1992, it was clear Attenborough and Downey had been right all along. The actor embodied Chaplin’s mannerisms, spirit, comedy style, and even replicated some of his most famous film moments. Finally, all the years of addiction and doubt fell away, and Downey emerged as one of acting’s greatest talents.

Critics and audiences praised the performance, and Downey landed his first Best Actor Oscar nomination. Although he didn’t win that year, the nod helped revive his career. It set the stage for his complete career resurgence later on with films like Iron Man, Tropic Thunder (which earned him another Oscar nomination), and many more.

Other Iconic Roles Williams Missed Out On

While losing out on Chaplin may still sting for Robin Williams fans, it was far from the only major role he was up for but didn’t land. He was reportedly considered for parts in:

• Good Will Hunting
• The Shining
• Three Amigos
• Hagrid in the Harry Potter films
• Willy Wonka in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Of course, Williams still leaves an incredible acting legacy with films like Good Morning Vietnam, Dead Poets Society, Mrs. Doubtfire, Aladdin, Good Will Hunting, and many more. But it’s fun to imagine how roles like these could have further showcased his talents.

Chaplin’s Enduring Legacy

Chaplin endures as one of the finest biopics ever made. It captured the essence of a genius comedian while spotlighting a legendary performance from Robert Downey Jr. He and Attenborough overcame all obstacles to make their vision a reality.

The film brought Chaplin’s groundbreaking work as a writer, director, producer, and actor to a new generation. It also gave fresh perspective on his life story as an impoverished London child who became Hollywood royalty.

Finally, Chaplin saved Robert Downey Jr.’s career when it was at its lowest point. It proved his talent could overcome his personal struggles with addiction. Ultimately, this allowed him to ascend to even greater heights as Iron Man, Sherlock Holmes, and one of the biggest movie stars on the planet. Not bad for a role he almost lost to Mrs. Doubtfire himself. I sincerely hope you like reading this “This Iconic Role Almost Went to RDJ Instead of Robin Williams- Here’s How?” article.