Tom Cruise as Iron Man? Famous actors who were almost Marvel superheroes

Did you know Tom Cruise was the first choice to play Iron Man instead of Robert Downey Jr.?

Many famous faces such as Emily Blunt, and Joaquin Phoenix were the first choice to play the role of Black Widow, and Doctor Strange, respectively.

Here is a list of actors passed on Marvel roles due to either scheduling conflicts or not passing the audition:

Mark Ruffalo as The Hulk

Yes, Mark Ruffalo indeed played Bruce Banner/The Hulk but he was also considered the first choice for the same role in The Incredible Hulk.

However, Marvel Studios initially disagreed and instead cast Ed Norton.

But the partnership didn't last long due to both parties’ creative differences and Marvel went back to its initial choice; Ruffalo.

Joaquin Phoenix as Doctor Strange

Phoenix was Marvel Studios' top choice to paly Doctor Strange which eventually went to Benedict Cumberbatch.

The Joker actor, as per director Scott Derrickson, wasn't the right fit for the role.

Tom Cruise as Iron Man

Tom Cruise was seriously considered for the role of Iron Man in 2008; however, he declined the role, with multiple sources citing his high salary demands, and desire to make creative decisions about the character.

Robert Downey Jr. eventually landed the role, and the rest is history.

Emily Blunt as Black Widow

Blunt was eyed for Black Widow in Iron Man 2, but concerns about being tied to a big franchise for several years forced her to turn the offer.

The famous role was ultimately landed to Scarlet Johansson, who took on the role of the fierce S.H.I.E.L.D. agent.

Jim Carrey as Loki

Yes, the Mask star was reportedly Marvel Studios' top pick to play Loki, but Tom Hiddleston was ultimately cast after passing his screen test for the role.

Daniel Craig as Thor

Mr. James Bond was offered the role of Thor for the Marvel Cinematic Universe but he declined the offer, citing his commitment to the James Bond franchise.

Chris Hemsworth ultimately secured the role of Thor, the almighty God of Thunder.

John Krasinski as Captain America

Krasinski was considered and auditioned for the role of Captain America, and even put on the suit, but he lost the part to Chris Evans.

Jessica Chastain as The Wasp

Chastain was considered for the role of The Wasp but ultimately turned it down due to script and scheduling concerns and it went to Evangeline Lilly.