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A newly released memoir by late 'Titanic' producer Jon Landau has revealed why Matthew McConaughey was ultimately passed over for the iconic role of Jack Dawson in James Cameron’s 1997 blockbuster. Despite impressing during his audition, McConaughey reportedly lost the role due to his refusal to adapt his Southern accent.
The romantic disaster film went on to become a cultural phenomenon and was the highest-grossing movie in history until Cameron surpassed his own record with 'Avatar' in 2009. The role of Jack, a penniless artist who falls in love with first-class passenger Rose DeWitt Bukater (played by Kate Winslet), launched Leonardo DiCaprio into global stardom.
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Image Courtesy: IMDb
How Matthew McConaughey Exited 'Titanic'?
Jon Landau, who died in July 2024 at 63, shared the story of McConaughey’s audition in his memoir, 'The Bigger Picture', published after his passing.
According to an excerpt published by Puck, Matthew McConaughey performed a chemistry read with Winslet and initially impressed both her and the production team with his charisma and presence. However, when director James Cameron asked him to try the scene again without his Southern drawl, McConaughey reportedly declined, saying he believed his first take was sufficient. That decision, Landau explained, effectively ended McConaughey’s chances of landing the role.
In a 2018 interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Matthew McConaughey looked back and shared his own memories of that audition experience. He said he left the audition feeling confident after reading with Kate Winslet, but ultimately never received an offer for the part.
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Image Courtesy: IMDb
Over the years, several other actors have come forward claiming to have been in the running for the role of Jack Dawson. In March, 'The Goonies' star Corey Feldman revealed he had also auditioned for the part before DiCaprio was cast. Additionally, actress Margot Robbie once mentioned using 'Titanic’s emotional score to help her cry on set while filming 'The Wolf of Wall Street', which also starred DiCaprio.
Despite missing out on 'Titanic', Matthew McConaughey went on to have a successful career, earning widespread acclaim and winning an Academy Award for 'Dallas Buyers Club' in 2014.
