In an interview with the Los Angeles Times, director James Cameron said the role of Jake Sully in Avatar was first offered to Jake Gyllenhaal. He politely but firmly refused. Then producers turned to Matt Damon who also refused.
Cameron says that Sam Worthington was always his first choice. He admits, "Honestly, did I go out and try to woo them? No. I had my heart set on Sam. Maybe they sensed my lack of 100 percent commitment from me. Maybe it was the subject matter. This was a big Star Wars-type movie. They’re both serious actors."
All’s well that ends well for Worthington. He endured some lean years living out of his car while trying to make it as an actor. Today, Avatar‘s success has made him a household name in many parts of the world. The actor has already signed on to do the sequel.
Jake Gyllenhaal will soon be in theatres starring in the Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time and Matt Damon stars in the Green Zone.