Antonio Banderas was one of many names considered to play the Phantom.

Sarah Brightman (who starred in the broadway version) was reportedly scheduled to play Christine in a movie version.

Michael Crawford, the actor who originated the role of the Phantom seemed an obvious choice for the film, but despite a massive fan campaign, was not offered the role. Crawford was, however, set to play the Phantom in an earlier attempt at filimg the show, but this fell through due to his co-star Sarah Brightman's divorce from Andrew Lloyd-Webber, creator of the show.

Brendan Fraser reportedly wanted to play the role of the Phantom of the Opera, but was turned down.

Anne Hathaway was reportedly a condidate to play Christine.

Katie Holmes turned down the lead role due to age issues.

Hugh Jackman was apparently one of the many actors considered for the movie version of The Phantom of the Opera.

Keira Knightley admitted that the audition was embarrassing saying "I knew I couldn't sing it."

According to IMDB, Meat Loaf was offered the role.

Travolta was seriously considered to play the phantom.

Webber apparently said in an interview that he would like to have cast Catherine Zeta-Jones but she passed to play Velma in the movie musical "Chicago" and didn't want to do two singing roles in a row.