10 Iconic Movies That Almost Starred John Travolta

John Travolta is undeniably one of Hollywood's most iconic stars, known for unforgettable roles such as Danny Zuko in "Grease" and Vincent Vega in "Pulp Fiction." But what if I told you Travolta could have been the face of some of your other favorite films? Let's take a look at some of the most notable ones he passed on or narrowly missed.

1. 'Forrest Gump' (1994)

Imagine John Travolta sitting on a bench, recounting his life's adventures with a box of chocolates in hand, as Forrest Gump. It really could have worked out that way! Director Robert Zemeckis offered Travolta the lead role in "Forrest Gump," but Travolta decided he'd rather work on "Pulp Fiction" instead.

While Tom Hanks took home an Oscar for his portrayal of the lovable Forrest, Travolta has no regrets. After all, "Pulp Fiction" reignited his career and gave us the iconic dance scene with Uma Thurman!

2. 'Top Gun' (1986)

Before Tom Cruise became Maverick, producers considered John Travolta for the role of Pete "Maverick" Mitchell in "Top Gun." However, at the time, they felt Travolta didn't have the box office draw they needed. Enter Tom Cruise, who took the role and flew it straight into the Hollywood stratosphere.

3. 'Apollo 13' (1995)

Travolta had an itch to blast off in "Apollo 13." He expressed interest in the role and even reached out personally to director Ron Howard. But sometimes, even big stars hear, "Houston, we have a problem."

Unfortunately for Travolta, Howard had already locked in the cast, with Tom Hanks playing the lead as astronaut Jim Lovell. So close, yet so far!

4. 'American Gigolo' (1980)

Did you know director Paul Schrader originally cast Travolta as the suave, Armani-wearing Julian in "American Gigolo"? However, he dropped out shortly before filming began, giving Richard Gere a shot at stardom.

The movie became a defining moment in Gere's career, while Travolta moved on to other projects — probably with fewer wardrobe changes.

5. 'Chicago' (2002)

Travolta could have played Billy Flynn, the smooth-talking lawyer in "Chicago," alongside Catherine Zeta-Jones and Renee Zellweger — but instead he decided to smooth talk his way out of the role.

Travolta's hard pass worked out well a second time for Richard Gere — he swooped in, delivering a performance that earned him a Golden Globe. Travolta, meanwhile, probably enjoyed a little more time off that year.

6. 'The Doors' (1991)

Rock-and-roll history could have looked a little differently with Travolta playing Jim Morrison in "The Doors." He was considered to portray this iconic musician but ultimately lost out to Val Kilmer.

While Kilmer's performance received mixed reviews, we wonder how Travolta's take on the enigmatic frontman might have played out.

7. 'Scarface' (1983)

Travolta in "Scarface?" It almost happened! He was offered the role of Manolo Ray, Tony Montana's best friend. But in the end, Travolta said no thanks, and the part went to Steven Bauer.

Fortunately, we still got to enjoy watching a gangster Travolta later, in "Pulp Fiction."

8. 'Splash' (1984)

Travolta could have been swimming alongside Daryl Hannah in "Splash," but he declined the lead role of Allen Bauer.

This decision handed Tom Hanks his breakout role and a career boost that made him a household name. Travolta, on the other hand, kept dry, perhaps saving his aquatic adventures for another time.

9. 'The Green Mile' (1999)

Director Frank Darabont offered Travolta the role of ailing prison guard Paul Edgecomb in "The Green Mile," but he declined, throwing the prison door wide open for — you guessed it — Tom Hanks.

Hanks delivered a powerful performance, while Travolta probably kicked back and watched from the comfort of his home, popcorn in hand.

10. 'Taxi Driver' (1976)

Before Robert De Niro made "You talkin' to me?" one of the most iconic lines in film history, Travolta auditioned for the role of Travis Bickle in "Taxi Driver." Of course, De Niro ultimately took the role and delivered a legendary performance.

But not to worry — only one year later Travolta got his own opportunity to navigate the streets of 1970s New York and stare at himself in the mirror when he starred in "Saturday Night Fever."

John Travolta's career is a fascinating study in the twists and turns of Hollywood decision-making — and along the way, he has given us some unforgettable roles. Who knows? Maybe his next role could be the one that got away from someone else.

References: 10 Major Roles John Travolta Turned Down or Didn't Get | The Oscar-nominated role John Travolta turned down | John Travolta Turned Down One of Tom Hanks' Most Iconic Roles | Who was considered for Top Gun?