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 Roles turned down by William Powell:

Forever, Darling
MGM had offered the debonair Powell and frequent costar Myrna Loy this script about a long-married couple and their relationship issues.
Actor who got the part: Desi Arnaz

Lady for a Day
The dashing, debonair MGM star was wanted by director Frank Capra to play "Dave the Dude," but a loanout could not be arranged.
Actor who got the part: Warren William

Rebecca
Director Alfred Hitchcock was very intrigued by the possibility of attracting the suave, debonair comedian to play his dark, tortured hero with a secret.
Actor who got the part: Laurence Olivier

Romeo and Juliet (1936)
When Barrymore's drinking started causing problems on this production, Powell was approached to replace him in the role of Mercutio. Powell, a close friend of Barrymore's, refused.
Actor who got the part: John Barrymore

Shadow of a Doubt
Director Alfred Hitchcock won the interest of suave, debonair star Powell to play the "Merry Widow" murderer but Powell's studio, MGM, quashed the idea.
Actor who got the part: Joseph Cotten






Did you know that William Powell was not the only choice for this movie? (click to learn more)
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