Johnny Depp Beat Tom Hanks, Tom Cruise And Michael Jackson For Role in ‘Edward Scissorhands’

During the production of the 1990 dark fantasy film ‘Edward Scissorhands’, a unique bond formed between director and co-writer Tim Burton and the actor he ultimately chose for the lead role. This relationship between Burton and Johnny Depp began amid significant competition from other Hollywood heavyweights, as a new docuseries about Burton reveals.

In an interview for Tara Wood's still-untitled documentary, Johnny Depp shares that Hollywood icons such as Tom Hanks, Michael Jackson, and Tom Cruise were all interested in portraying the story's scissor-handed hero. Depp recalls, “Tom Cruise was very close to actually playing Edward Scissorhands — true story.” Depp only secured a meeting with Burton after hearing about these A-list contenders and feeling uncertain about his chances.

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Depp recounts thinking, “He’s never going to cast me when everyone in Hollywood is after the part.” With pressure from his agent, studio executives, and others, Burton faced significant challenges in his casting decision. Depp even considered cancelling his meeting with Burton, saying to his agent, “Please cancel the meeting, I’m not going.” Her response was emphatic: “Are you f---ing nuts?”

Reflecting on his initial reluctance, Depp explains, “There’s always that b*stard in your skull that goes ‘Come on, man. You’re a TV actor guy.’ Because at that time it was almost either-or.” Despite these doubts, Depp finally agreed to meet with Burton. 

This decision marked the beginning of a long-standing collaboration, with Depp becoming one of Burton’s frequent screen muses in films such as ‘Ed Wood’, ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ and ‘Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street’.

Burton’s ensemble of regular actors also includes Helena Bonham Carter, Christopher Lee, and Edward Scissorhands co-star Winona Ryder. The enduring professional relationships Burton has cultivated are a testament to his unique vision and the loyalty of his collaborators. Ryder and Burton are set to reunite for the upcoming Beetlejuice sequel, further solidifying these lasting creative partnerships.

-Sushmita Sarkar