Multiple actors declined James Bond role over decades

Many famous actors have turned down the chance to play James Bond over the decades. Cary Grant said no to the first film in 1961 because he felt he was too old at 58. Clint Eastwood refused in the early 1970s, as he did not want to follow Sean Connery. Burt Reynolds and Robert Wagner both felt that only a British actor should play the role. Mel Gibson and Gerard Butler worried that the part would limit their future career choices. Liam Neeson's wife told him she would not marry him if he accepted. Hugh Jackman said the timing was simply wrong for him. Each actor had a different reason, but the long commitment required by the franchise put off many of them.