In 1977, Sylvester Stallone wanted one of cinema’s most famous roles. He would have been the worst possible choice

Sylvester Stallone pursued the title role in Richard Donner’s 1978 film *Superman* after the success of *Rocky*, but director Donner and producer Ilya Salkind concluded he was wrong for the part. The story matters as a reminder that a major star’s momentum does not always make them suited to a particular role.

Stallone met the filmmakers in early 1977, when the producers were considering established names and Donner favoured a less familiar actor. Salkind later recalled that Stallone was keen but did not fit the character, while Donner said he met him under pressure from the producers. Stallone had also unsuccessfully auditioned for *The Godfather* and *Star Wars*.