Casting twists: Actors who auditioned for heroes but nailed villains

Sometimes movie history is shaped by unexpected casting selections. Many actors originally auditioned for heroic roles, only to end up portraying villains who became unforgettable.

Here are five fascinating actors who became villains by accident:

1. Tom Hiddleston as Loki in 'Thor'

When Tom Hiddleston auditioned for Thor, he was aiming for the role of the God of Thunder himself.

Although that part ultimately went to Chris Hemsworth, Hiddleston’s screen test left a lasting impression.

Instead of Thor, he was given the role of Loki, which was a role he hadn’t even auditioned for.

2. Rachel McAdams as Regina George in 'Mean Girls'

During the early casting phases, Lindsay Lohan was set to play Regina George, and Rachel McAdams auditioned for Cady Heron.

But the studio wanted Lohan as the heroine because of her recent success.

This last minute switch led McAdams to step into the role of Regina George, which is amazingly filled.

3. Heath Ledger as the Joker in 'The Dark Knight'

Before casting Christian Bale, director Christopher Nolan’s first choice for Bruce Wayne in Batman Begins was Heath Ledger. However, both agreed the role didn’t suit him.

Fate worked in their favour and Ledger was later cast as the Joker in The Dark Knight. His haunting portrayal won him a posthumous Academy Award.

4. Sam Rockwell as Justin Hammer in 'Iron Man 2'

Sam Rockwell was once considered for Tony Stark in the first Iron Man. But Robert Downey Jr. landed the role and became synonymous with the Marvel hero.

Director Jon Favreau, however, never forgot Rockwell. He later cast him as Justin Hammer, Tony Stark’s egoist rival in Iron Man 2.

5. Christopher Lee as Saruman in 'The Lord of the Rings'

Christopher Lee, who is a huge fan of Tolkien’s books, dreamed of playing Gandalf.

He even auditioned for the role but Peter Jackson felt his commanding presence was better suited for Saruman.

Lee accepted the role and delivered a chilling performance as the corrupted wizard.