Christopher Walken recently revealed that he auditioned for the character of Han Solo in the original Star Wars movie, a role that ultimately went to Harrison Ford. Walken shared this interesting anecdote from his past as he currently stars in the much-awaited ‘Dune: Part Two’, portraying the character of Emperor Shaddam IV. Coincidentally, Jodie Foster also tried her luck for a Star Wars role, unfortunately, having to decline the opportunity to play Princess Leia due to her ongoing commitment to a Disney movie.
Christopher Walken’s Star Wars Audition
Christopher Walken, an established figure in Hollywood, auditioned for the role of Han Solo for the Star Wars franchise nearly five decades ago. Despite Walken’s efforts, Harrison Ford won the role, virtually becoming synonymous with the charismatic rogue. Walken, reminiscing about his audition experience, revealed that he read lines with Jodie Foster, another acclaimed actor who auditions for the film. “I think it was for Han Solo. Yes, I auditioned for it. And if I’m not mistaken, my partner in the audition was – I think this is true – it was Jodie Foster… I did audition for Star Wars, but so did about 500 other actors”, recalled Walken.
On an episode of The Tonight Show, Foster shared that she auditioned for Star Wars and was offered the role of Princess Leia. However, due to a prior Disney movie commitment, she had to say no to the opportunity. “They were going for a younger Princess Leia but I had a conflict. I was doing a Disney movie and I just didn’t want to pull out because I was already under contract… And they did an amazing job. I don’t know how good I would have been. I might have had different hair. I might have gone with a pineapple”, shared Foster.
Christopher Walken in Dune: Part Two
In the present day, Christopher Walken is an essential part of the ensemble cast in ‘Dune: Part Two’, a sequel that relays the continuation of Paul Atreides’s journey towards avenging his family and fulfilling his destiny. The film is directed by the versatile Denis Villeneuve and features an impressive star cast, including Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, and Florence Pugh. The story is adapted from Frank Herbert’s influential novel.
Moving forward, ‘Dune: Part Two’ is projected to be an epic continuation of the story, delving into themes of power, loyalty, and destiny. The film explores Paul’s alliance with Chani and the Fremen as they navigate the treacherous landscape of Arrakis and the political intrigue that threatens the entire universe.
Dune: Part Two is currently running in theaters.
Wrapping Up
As Christopher Walken reflects on his Star Wars audition while fans enjoy his performance in ‘Dune: Part Two’, it provides an interesting peek into the unpredictable nature of Hollywood casting. If he were to have bagged the role of Han Solo, the Star Wars universe as we know it may have been markedly different. Yet, with his new role as Emperor Shaddam IV in the Dune sequel, audiences can look forward to witnessing his remarkable talent shine in another iconic franchise. Check out ‘Dune: Part Two’ on HitPlay.
