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Clint Eastwood Turned Down This Role That Eventually Went to Elvis Presley

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 Clint Eastwood turned down the lead role in Charro! because it didn’t have the same star power or level of drama as his previous work in the Man With No Name trilogy.
 Despite its success at the box office, Charro! was missing something, and that something was Elvis Presley’s singing. Audiences were disappointed that The King never sang a single note in the film.
 The decision to not have Elvis sing in the movie may have been a good one for Clint Eastwood, but it left Elvis feeling somewhat abandoned and without a song to sing.

Sometimes the careers of iconic legends pass like two ships in the night, unaware that their paths have come so close together. That was the case with the greatest rock and roll icon of all time and arguably the biggest Western movie star ever. The year was 1969 and the film in question was looking for the newest star in Hollywood whose trajectory was pointing due North. It had the established gunslinger star Clint Eastwood written all over it. The movie was called Charro! and Eastwood was approached to play the lead role of an ex-gang leader turned good guy. When he turned it down per author Victor Adam’s Elvis Encyclopedia, it landed in the hands of none other than “The King” himself, Elvis Presley, who snatched up the role of a redeemed, Jess Wade.

With the film taking the King for a spin, especially in being the only movie audiences saw him with a scruffy beard, what was it about Charro! that Eastwood turned down? After all, the film had the charm of Presley and a strong Western theme that was permeating cinema during the late 1960s.
What Is ‘Charro!’ About?

charro elvisImage via National General Pictures

Jess Wade (Presley) is a bad guy who has broken good and wants to defend the people of a small Mexican town from his former dangerous and motley crew of ne’er-do-wells who have bad intentions — some seriously bad men. At the beginning of the film, Jess wastes no time walking into the town saloon and getting into a gunfight with his former crew. The bandits ride Jess out of town thinking that roughing him up and making him the target of a Mexican Federales search party will be the end of him, but he isn’t having any of it. Instead, he makes a move on villain Vince Hackett’s (Victor French, who is probably the best part of the film) sister Tracy (Ina Balin), but Vince doesn’t take lightly to traitors that are moving on his sister.

As a way to keep the peace, he sends Jess walking into the arid and barren desert with only his saddle to his name. After breaking a wild horse, the spurned and pissed-off cowboy rides back into Charro to settle the score and protect both his father and Tracy. Vince returns with a stolen cannon and threatens to fire upon the town. Elvis Presley is good in the role, but once you know that Clint Eastwood passed on it, it suffers by comparison. Plus, the fact that the only time we hear The King’s singing voice is during the opening credits doesn’t help.
Why Did Clint Eastwood Turn Down the Role in ‘Charro!’?

Clint Eastwood smoking a cigarrette and squinting in 'A Fistful of Dollars' (1964)Image Via United Artists

Clint Eastwood was coming off a string of smash hit spaghetti westerns that he collaborated on with Italian filmmaker, Sergio Leone. The Man With No Name trilogy was spectacular. Beginning in 1964 with For a Fistful of Dollars, followed by For a Few Dollars More in 1965, and culminating with the 1966 epic Western The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly, the Dollars Trilogy cemented Eastwood as one of the biggest names in film. When Charro! arrived at the actor’s desk, there was little chance that the burgeoning star, who would also become Dirty Harry Callahan just a few years later in 1971, was going to bite on a part that didn’t have the same star power or the level of drama and suspense as his previous work.

Again, Charro! is not an awful film as far as Westerns from the period go. But compared to the Dollars Trilogy, it’s not on the same level, and it’s debatable whether even a Morricone harmonica soundtrack and cowboy king Eastwood could have lifted a relatively staid script and story. So, Elvis Presley, who was floundering a bit in his acting career in the late ’60s jumped on the part and made a pretty good film even as his Hollywood star was fading. The whole thing has a very Three Amigos kind of vibe to it, and Eastwood would likely have never gone for that.

‘Charro!’ Did Well at the Box Office, But It Was Missing Something

viva-las-vegas-elvis-presleyImage via MGM

While Elvis Presley might have shown his best in films like Love Me Tender, Jailhouse Rock and King Creole, his films after a certain period began to dwindle in character and story. His presence is always felt on the screen, but in some of his later films, there can be an almost robot-like lack of accentuation and emotion — almost as if he was being forced to churn out movies much to the advisement from his manager, Colonel Tom Parker. The feeling of Charro! is brought out by the supporting cast of French, and Vince’s cackling, crazed brother, Billy Roy Hackett (Solomon Sturges), whose energy also makes Presley’s performance feel a bit flat). But the biggest sticking point had nothing to do with the performance of the rock and roll icon. Audiences went to the theater thinking they were going to get to hear Presley’s silky dulcet tones in the film, but he never sings in the film.

Audiences Didn’t Like That Elvis Doesn’t Sing a Single Note

elvis-thats-the-way-it-isImage via Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

In 1969, the American public laid down a load of cash and wanted to hear some more of the legendary singer belting out some Sturgill Simpson-like pop country-western tunes only to find out that the legend only lends his voice to the opening credit sequence. It doesn’t seem fair, does it? You’ve laid down your money for what you’re expecting to be a similar musical style Elvis Presley movie, and he doesn’t sing a word? You can imagine audiences just digging into their bucket full of 1969 popcorn being excited after hearing the opening song, and spending the next hour and a half being forsaken by Charro!‘s music-less delivery. The decision may have been the best one that Eastwood has made in his long career and what was left kind of left Elvis hanging out to dry without a song to sing.

Clint Eastwood

From Clint Eastwood to Jason Statham, 5 Hollywood Badass Who Would Never be a MCU Superhero

Hollywood has seen plenty of actors portray the quintessential “badass” character with their rugged charm, fearless personas, and no-nonsense approach to their roles. However, not every one of these tough-as-nails stars is a natural fit for the larger-than-life world of superhero cinema, especially within the high-flying, action-packed universes of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
1. Clint Eastwood
Clint Eastwood

Clint Eastwood
From A Fistful of Dollars to Cry Macho, Clint Eastwood has enjoyed a career spanning over six decades. Clint Eastwood is known for the tough, no-nonsense characters he portrayed throughout his career.
Suggested Article: “No one in the world knew…”: Paul Walker and Vin Diesel Were Able to Hide One Secret About Their Relationship For a Long Time
With his gravelly voice, Eastwood has always been the epitome of the Hollywood badass. The 93-year-old has often chosen to direct and act in serious, adult-oriented content. As revealed by CBR, the former mayor expresses his thoughts on the superhero genre.
“I read comic books when I was a kid, I don’t read them now. I prefer adult oriented stuff. I mean that in the PG-13 or R sense, but that’s as far as it goes.”
Clint Eastwood‘s focus remains distinctly elsewhere in an industry increasingly dominated by superhero narratives.
2. Naomi Watts
Naomi Watts has a broad range of acting skills, which she has showcased brilliantly in various genres, including serious dramas and psychological thrillers. While she has excelled in these genres, she prefers smaller, more personal projects and TV shows. Therefore, it is unlikely that she would be interested in taking up roles in superhero movies.
In an interview with The Times, Watts revealed that the film industry was in a “sad state,” which is why the actress prefers the drama genre.
“I definitely noticed that a lot of great writing was taking place in the TV format now, probably because of the sad state of the film industry and how all the films getting made are mostly in the franchise world, or superheroes or big comedy blockbuster-type movies, and I really tend to enjoy working in the drama genre.”
Nonetheless, her commitment to her craft and her ability to bring depth to her characters make her an asset to any project she chooses to undertake.
3. Matt Damon
Matt Damon is a highly respected and accomplished entertainment industry figure, receiving critical acclaim and widespread commercial success.
Despite his connections with influential individuals in the superhero genre, he has yet to take on a superhero role, which presents an opportunity to explore a new aspect of his craft and further expand his already impressive repertoire.
4. Jason Statham
It is unlikely that Jason Statham, who has openly expressed his preference for films that focus on human performance rather than special effects, would be interested in joining the superhero genre, especially the MCU.
In an interview with Digital Spy, Statham confirms that he is not interested in being a part of the Marvel universe.
“The fascination is superheroes, it’s what people want to go and see but you wouldn’t get me rushing to the cinema to see those. I like the old-fashioned type of film. They’ve never offered me a part in one of those and I don’t think the shoes would fit. Or the cape wouldn’t fit!”
Statham’s expertise and career choices align more with traditional action cinema. The actor’s legacy in the action genre is defined by intense stunts and a straightforward demeanor, which sets him apart in Hollywood as a unique figure, far removed from the superhero universe’s caped adventures.
5. Reese Witherspoon
Reese WitherspoonReese Witherspoon
Reese Witherspoon is an actress renowned for her versatility and has excelled in roles requiring strong character development. However, Witherspoon hasn’t been a part of the action-packed superhero movie genre of the MCU due to the diverse range of roles she has taken throughout her career.
Witherspoon seems to desire more substantial and complex characters, as evidenced by her past remarks about the lack of appealing roles in big-budget movies, including superhero films.

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Clint Eastwood

From Al Pacino to Clint Eastwood, Here Are 9 Celebs Who Became Dads in Their Golden Years

Here Are 9 Older Celebs Who Welcomed Kids Later in Life
Image Source: Getty Images | Photo by Mike Marsland; Photo by Ray Tamarra

Image Source: Getty Images | Photo by Mike Marsland; Photo by Ray Tamarra
 

 
Also Read: Nick Cannon Defends Beyoncé’s Renaissance Premiere Look: “Kim Kardashian Wishes She Looked Like That”
 
Older celebs are rewriting the parenting playbook, proving that there’s no expiration date on fatherhood. Al Pacino and Robert De Niro have also joined the league of seasoned celebrity dads, challenging the conventional timeline. The National Center for Family and Marriage Research notes the average age for new fathers hovers between 27 and 30, but these icons are rewriting the script, embracing fatherhood past the age of 65. Juggling toddlers in your 30s is demanding enough, but these stars took on the challenge after retirement. From embracing the bachelor life to laser-focused careers, these nine celebrities deferred daddy duty until their 40s and beyond.
1. Al Pacino – 83 Years Old
Image Source: Getty Images | Photo by AxelleImage Source: Getty Images | Photo by Axelle
 
At 83, iconic actor Al Pacino defied age norms by becoming a father once again, welcoming a son named Roman Pacino with his 29-year-old girlfriend, producer Noor Alfallah. The couple’s relationship gained attention in April 2022, and a few months later, they joyfully announced the arrival of their child, who arrived in the summer of 2023. Already a father to three grown children—Julie Marie, Anton, and Olivia—Pacino embraces fatherhood anew with enthusiasm. His eldest daughter, Julie Marie, was born in 1989, when he was still married to Jan Tarrant, while the twins, Anton James and Olivia Rose, were welcomed in 2001 with Beverly D’Angelo, as per US Weekly.
2. Robert De Niro – 79 Years Old
Image Source: Getty Images | Photo by Stephane CardinaleImage Source: Getty Images | Photo by Stephane Cardinale
 
At 79, legendary actor Robert De Niro surprised many by welcoming his seventh child, Gia Virginia Chen De Niro, in May 2023. During interviews, De Niro has also been quite frank about having so many kids, emphasizing the joy of expanding his family even at an advanced age. The iconic Oscar winner, whose oldest child is 51, acknowledged that parenthood doesn’t get easier but expressed contentment with embracing fatherhood once again. De Niro’s diverse family includes children from previous marriages and relationships, showcasing a 51-year age gap between his eldest and youngest offspring, as per Parents.
3. Mick Jagger – 73 Years Old
Image Source: Getty Images | Photo by Paul BergenImage Source: Getty Images | Photo by Paul Bergen
 
At the age of 73, Mick Jagger, the iconic frontman of The Rolling Stones, welcomed his eighth child with girlfriend Melanie Hamrick. The news was confirmed by his publicist, who also gave details about Jagger’s presence at the hospital and the well-being of the mother and baby. As per The Daily Mail, despite Jagger and Hamrick having no plans to marry, the rock legend flew from London to New York for the birth. Now at 79, Mick Jagger has a total of eight children, including sons James, Gabriel, and Lucas, and daughters Karis, Jade, Elizabeth, and Georgia May. In addition to his extensive family, Jagger is a grandfather to five and even became a great-grandfather in May 2014.
4. George Lucas – 69 Years Old
Image Source: Getty Images | Photo by Taylor HillImage Source: Getty Images | Photo by Taylor Hill
 
Star Wars creator George Lucas and Mellody Hobson embraced parenthood later in life with the birth of their daughter, Everest Hobson Lucas, on August 9, 2013. At the age of 69, Lucas, known for his directorial prowess, welcomed his first biological child through surrogacy. Everest joined Lucas’s family alongside his three adopted children, Amanda, Katie, and Jett. Hobson, Lucas’ wife, played a significant role in expanding their family in their later years. Today, at 79, George Lucas continues to navigate the joys of fatherhood with Everest, as per Reuters.
5. Billy Joel – 68 Years Old
Image Source: Getty Images | Photo by Naomi RahimImage Source: Getty Images | Photo by Naomi Rahim
 
At the age of 68, legendary singer Billy Joel embraced fatherhood once again with the arrival of his daughter, Remy Anne, born to his fourth wife, Alexis Roderick, on October 22, 2017, at New York University Hospital, as per USA Today. This marked Joel’s third venture into parenthood, as his second daughter, Della, was born in 2015. The iconic Piano Man singer shared his joy by performing My Life the day after Della’s birth, proudly displaying photos of his newborn. Notably, Joel’s firstborn, Alexa Ray, is now 36, with her mother being Joel’s second wife, Christie Brinkley.
6. Steve Martin – 67 Years Old
Image Source: Getty Images |  Photo by Jon KopaloffImage Source: Getty Images | Photo by Jon Kopaloff
Comedic legend Steve Martin welcomed fatherhood at 67 when his wife, Anne Stringfield, gave birth to their daughter Mary in December 2012. Known for his timeless roles, including Father of the Bride, Martin became a first-time dad after keeping the pregnancy a well-guarded secret. The couple’s age difference—Stringfield being 26 years younger—added to the surprise. Martin’s journey into parenthood was unconventional, considering he had portrayed a father on screen long before becoming one in real life. Mary, born in 2012, stands as the beloved actor’s only child, emphasizing that life’s most significant roles often come later in one’s narrative, as per Hollywood Life.
7. Clint Eastwood – 66 Years Old
Image Source: Getty Images | Photo by Eddie SandersonImage Source: Getty Images | Photo by Eddie Sanderson
At 66, Clint Eastwood welcomed his youngest daughter, Morgan Eastwood, on December 12, 1996, with his second wife Dina Eastwood, then 31. Despite his age, Eastwood asserted that he became a better father with enhanced parenting skills. Known for directing Sully, Eastwood also has six other children from previous marriages. Morgan, now 27, gained attention as a teen on E!’s Mrs. Eastwood & Company in 2012 and has since pursued a versatile career in the entertainment industry. She has acted in films like Million Dollar Baby and Changeling, produced a short film titled I See You, and contributed to the soundtrack of Johnny Mercer: The Dream’s on Me.
8. Alec Baldwin – 64 Years Old
 Image Source: Getty Images | Photo by Roy RochlinImage Source: Getty Images | Photo by Roy Rochlin
 
At 64, Alec Baldwin and his wife, Hilaria, celebrated the arrival of their eighth child, Ilaria Catalina Irena Baldwin, on September 22, 2022. The couple, expressing gratitude, shared the joyful news, emphasizing the magic and love surrounding their expanding family. Alec, known for his Saturday Night Live stint, has children from different marriages, including a daughter named Ireland with ex-wife Kim Basinger. Having tied the knot with Hilaria in 2012, the Baldwins embraced parenthood with zeal, with their latest addition, Ilaria, joining the Baldwinito clan, as per US Weekly.
9. Paul McCartney – 61 Years Old
Image Source: Getty Images | Photo by Samir HusseinImage Source: Getty Images | Photo by Samir Hussein
 
At 61, Paul McCartney defied expectations by embracing fatherhood once again with the birth of his daughter, Beatrice Milly McCartney. His enthusiasm for parenting at an older age was evident as he expressed genuine delight in the experience. The Beatles legend, previously a father to three grown children from his first marriage, found joy in the ‘thrill’ and ‘education’ of raising a young child. This new chapter unfolded with his second wife, Heather Mills, marking the beginning of a different yet fulfilling fatherhood. Beatrice’s arrival brought immense joy to the couple, who described her as ‘a little beauty,’ as per Entertainment Weekly.

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Clint Eastwood

The Netflix Clint Eastwood Thriller That’s Still An A+ In Suspense

Clint Eastwood movie


In the Line of Fire is the story of a Secret Service agent named Frank Horrigan who suffers from severe PTSD stemming from his inability to stop a murder when he was younger. Failing to save anyone would be traumatizing, but Frank didn’t let “anyone” get killed. It was the JFK assassination that he failed to stop.
When an ex-CIA agent calling himself Booth (after John Wilkes) makes it known that he plans to kill the current president, Horrigan begs to be put on active duty again. The middle-aged secret service agent wants a chance to make up for not saving Kennedy by making sure this president doesn’t get taken out. What follows is a tense back and forth as Booth continuously contacts Horrigan to tease him about letting John F. Kennedy get shot as Frank attempts to locate and stop the would-be assassin.

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