This A-Lister Almost Out-Edward-ed Robert Pattinson in Twilight

When the Twilight film first emerged, it became an immediate worldwide sensation, shooting the cast into global stardom. One of those actors was, of course, the famed heart-throb Robert Pattinson, who portrayed the role of Edward Cullen.

Although we couldn't imagine anyone else in the role now, the part almost went to several other famous candidates. Some you simply wouldn't believe.

Another Hollywood heart-throb almost took the part instead

Perhaps the most lamented what-if Twilight casting was, in fact, Witcher and Man Of Steel star Henry Cavill. Cavill had been a fan-favorite contender for Edward for a while before the film even started production. Twilight author Stephanie Meyer herself has even admitted she considered him perfect for the role. Unfortunately, Cavill was deemed too old for the part; even though Edward is technically over 100, he's still trapped in a teenage body.

Yet it wasn't until after the film's release that Cavill discovered his missed chance for the part. Discussing the fans' preference for him to play the brooding vampire on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Cavill confessed that it would have been a great role for him to tackle. 'I didn't know about the movie. I didn't know about them wanting to cast me, and the internet wasn't quite the tool that it is now, and so I only found out afterward.', Cavill said. 'I was like, 'Oh okay, that would have been cool.'

Even if we never got to see Cavill's take as Edward Cullen, the missed opportunity certainly hasn't stunted his career growth. Only six years later, he was cast as Superman himself in 'Man of Steel'. And he would later cement his reputation as a leading man securing the much-loved role in 'The Witcher' series. Maybe his losing the part of Edward was the best thing for him after all.

Jackson Rathbone

While not quite Edward, Jackson Rathbone did find his place in the saga as Jasper Hale. Initially, he was also Meyer's second pick for Edward. Nevertheless, Rathbone proved himself as Jasper, bearing no ill will towards Pattinson for seizing the iconic Edward role. Rathbone acknowledges that the right actor ultimately got the part.

Scott Eastwood

Son of Hollywood legend Clint Eastwood, Scott Eastwood, also had the opportunity to sink his teeth into the Twilight series. However, he decided that the story was not to his taste at the time, expressing little interest in young adult fiction. With the franchise's monumental success, Eastwood might have reconsidered his decision retrospectively, realizing the magnitude of the missed opportunity.

Shiloh Fernandez

The charismatic Shiloh Fernandez, known for his role in Evil Dead, could have brought a brooding aura to Edward. Unfortunately, the on-screen chemistry with Kristen Stewart, who had already been cast as Bella, wasn't the right match. For Twilight to work, the magnetism between the leads had to be nothing short of perfect.

Ben Barnes

Already recognized for his role in the Narnia series, Ben Barnes made it to the final four candidates for Edward. However, his prior affiliations with a different teen franchise might have hindered his chances. The producers hesitated to blend Narnia and Twilight in casting decisions, leaving Barnes to wonder what might have been.

Dave Franco and Jamie Campbell Bower

Both Dave Franco and Jamie Campbell Bower, familiar faces in the entertainment world, almost found themselves in the shoes of Edward. Franco reached the initial interview phase, while Bower's potential was heavily considered by producers. Yet, for reasons unknown, neither of them made the final cut for the lead role.

Dustin Milligan

Canadian actor Dustin Milligan, known for 90210 and Schitt's Creek, gave his all to the audition for Edward. However, he jokingly believes his lack of a British accent worked against him in getting the part.

Michael Welch

Michael Welch's Twilight journey was a rollercoaster. Auditioning for the role of Edward, he didn't let rejection deter him. Welch continued to pursue every available male role until landing the part of one of Bella's high school buddies, Mike Newton. You have to respect the persistence, at the very least.

Source: Happy Sad Confused podcast.