10 Actors Who Took On A Movie Role For Unbelievable Reasons

Jessica Wilson
Nov 08, 2023
Nov 09, 2023

Hollywood sees some cases that actors occasionally trade their scripts for the quirkiest of reasons. While the silver screen often reflects actors’ passion and devotion to the acting, let’s face it - not every actor is chasing Oscar gold.

Some said “yes” to roles that have left critics scratching their heads. From purchasing a shoe to saving money for an exploration, these stars chose the spotlight for reasons as diverse and amusing as their performances.

We’ve rounded up 10 odd reasons actors decided to get a role and we’re certain that they will shock you.

#1. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar wanted to buy a $35,000 carpet

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When the producers of Airplane! went to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, there was a bit of a snag—mainly, he had his heart set on a fancy $35,000 carpet. They tried to strike a deal at $30,000, but Kareem wasn't budging. He stuck to his guns and got $35,000 for that luxurious woven rug.

#2. Jessica Chastain had her eyes on a sofa

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Surprisingly, Jessica Chastain didn't hop on board Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted for the love of cinema magic. The actress desired to possess a chic new couch.

#3. Frank Grillo needed money for his garden

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Frank Grillo is best recognized as Crossbones in the MCU but is a king in the straight-to-DVD scene. He had a unique reason for taking on the 2018 film Reprisal, even though it wasn't a blockbuster. He used his earnings from the movie to fund some work on his garden.

#4. Michael Ironside wanted to have a special gift for his daughter

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Michael Ironside delivered an amazing performance in Total Recall. But, many might not know that he snagged the role because his daughter's 16th birthday was just around the corner, and he had his sights set on buying her a car.

#5. Patrick Stewart paid the cost of repairing the window

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Patrick Stewart graced the screen as a Russian general in Wild Geese II not for the love of the role, but because he faced a pesky leaky window situation in his apartment. With the exact amount needed to fix it—£2,000—offered for the movie, Stewart seized the opportunity.

#6. Amanda Seyfried tried to purchase an apartment

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The actress admitted that she took on romcoms like Letters to Juliet and Dear John because, as she put it, "sometimes, when you want to buy an apartment in Manhattan, you gotta do one or two." In the world of showbiz, it seems even Manhattan real estate dreams can shape an actor's choices!

#7. Paul Rudd had to pay for his rent

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The 2000 Hong Kong action comedy Gen-Y Cops featured a pre-fame, bleach-blond Paul Rudd as an unexpected co-star. The reason behind Rudd's decision to join the cast? Simple—he was a bit behind on his rent.

#8. Steve Martin had a passion for some paintings

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Steve Martin is crazy about art, so much so that he's got this huge, always-growing collection. His passion for supporting the art world runs so deep that sometimes he takes on roles in, well, not-so-great movies like Cheaper By the Dozen 2, just to snag more paintings.

#9. Timothy Olyphant tried to buy a house

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While shooting Deadwood, Timothy Olyphant decided to buy a house. But, oops, the show got canceled. In a bit of a rush, he took on roles in Hitman and Live Free or Die Hard, telling his agent, "I'm in. I just bought a house. Did you not hear? They just canceled my fucking show. Yes, I’ll do it.”

#10. Donald Pleasence had to pay all the bills

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Even though The Mutations isn't the highlight of Donald Pleasence's career, he had a straightforward reason for taking on the role. With six daughters to look after, he needed to keep working to pay the bills. In the end, family comes first, even in Hollywood!

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