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Will Smith turned down the role of Neo in The Matrix
AI-generated symbolic image of an anonymous performer considering a science-fiction role; it does not depict Will Smith, a real casting meeting, or a scene from The Matrix.
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Before Keanu Reeves played Neo in The Matrix, Will Smith was offered the role. Smith has said he did not understand Lana and Lilly Wachowski’s idea and declined, choosing Wild Wild West instead. Stories about other stars supposedly offered the part often mix rumors, casting consideration and confirmed offers.
