Jessica Chastain reportedly turned down a role in the 2013 superhero film *Iron Man 3* because she felt it was not appropriate to take on such a prominent project while working on smaller independent films. The decision matters because the film became a major global success and the part went instead to Rebecca Hall, underscoring Chastain’s willingness to prioritise her career choices over a high-profile franchise opportunity.

Chastain was initially cast as scientist Maya Hansen, a character linked to Tony Stark’s past and the Extremis programme, but withdrew before filming. *Iron Man 3*, directed by Shane Black and starring Robert Downey Jr., grossed more than $1.2 billion worldwide, making it one of 2013’s biggest films. Chastain later said she had concerns about the size and nature of the role, while Hall ultimately played Hansen.