Kurt Russell was considered for the lead role in William Friedkin’s 2011 crime comedy Killer Joe, but ultimately declined it. According to Friedkin’s memoir, Russell felt intimidated by the part, while his long-term partner Goldie Hawn reportedly warned she would leave him if he accepted.

The role went to Matthew McConaughey, whose performance became an important part of his career resurgence. Killer Joe centres on a corrupt detective and contract killer, and includes highly provocative material that may have contributed to Hawn’s objection; Russell later said passing on the role was necessary.