Ever wondered why Kurt Russell was the only actor considered for the role of Colonel O'Neil in 'Stargate'? It's a fascinating story of casting choices, audience perception, and a dash of Hollywood charm. When director Roland Emmerich and writer Dean Devlin set out to cast their sci-fi adventure, they had one name at the top of their list: Kurt Russell. There was no backup plan, and for good reason. O'Neil was envisioned as a stoic military man, the perfect foil to James Spader's more eccentric Dr. Daniel Jackson. The goal wasn't to cast a tough guy like Lee Marvin (though he would have been an interesting choice, if possible!), but to find someone universally liked.
The film itself is a fun B-movie with great production values, but the dynamic between O'Neil and Jackson is what gives it life. Russell and Spader are excellent actors, perfectly embodying their roles.
But here's where it gets controversial... In a 2016 GQ profile, it was revealed that Russell initially wasn't keen on the role. He was eventually convinced, but only after being offered double his usual salary. He was still puzzled by their insistence on casting him. As Russell recalled, the filmmakers had done some research. They wanted to rate actors on their unlikability. They wanted to find someone who was likable because the part, as written, was not. They said, 'You know the only star out there who has zero unlikability?' 'Kurt Russell.' Zero unlikability!
Kurt Russell: The Undeniably Likable Star
The GQ article also suggested that 'Stargate' allowed Russell to expand his acting range and shift how people saw him. However, if you're a fan, his portrayal of O'Neil isn't that different from his roles as Snake Plissken in 'Escape from New York' or the humorless MacReady in 'The Thing.' He'd played the tough guy before.
And this is the part most people miss... Even after some less successful films like 'Soldier' or '3,000 Miles to Graceland,' it's hard to argue that Russell's inherent likability has diminished. As Russell himself observed, 'Inherent likability, or inherent dislikability, is something I think we all carry with us.' He then humorously added, 'Now, when you talk about yourself in those terms, I find that unlikable. 'Stop! You idiot! There's millions of people who can't stand the f***ing sight of you!' And that may be true.'
I have to disagree with that last part. I've yet to meet someone whose face doesn't light up when you mention one of Russell's many re-watchable classics. He's the king of the 'dad movie,' and we love him for it.
What do you think? Do you agree with the filmmakers' assessment of Russell's likability? Are there any other actors you think could have pulled off the role? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
