Billy Bob Thornton, known for his eclectic acting choices, has revealed that he passed up two major Hollywood villain roles—Green Goblin in Spider-Man and Owen Davian in Mission: Impossible III. In a recent interview on The Playlist’s “Bingeworthy” podcast, Thornton explained his reluctance to take on such iconic antagonistic parts.
“I don’t have much interest in those kinds of roles,” Thornton admitted. “With the Green Goblin, I didn’t feel like getting up at 4 a.m. for five or six hours of makeup. And with Mission: Impossible III, I didn’t want to be the guy trying to kill Tom Cruise.”
Avoiding the Villain Trap
Thornton highlighted how playing a villain in a major film often leaves a lasting impression on audiences—something he preferred to steer clear of. Instead, the actor opts for roles that feel “looser and less predictable,” a hallmark of his career.
While Thornton turned down these parts, both roles became iconic under the actors who accepted them:
Willem Dafoe as Green Goblin: Dafoe’s performance in Spider-Man (2002) is regarded as one of the most memorable portrayals of a comic book villain. He reprised the role two decades later in Spider-Man: No Way Home and remains open to returning again.
Philip Seymour Hoffman as Owen Davian: Hoffman’s chilling performance in Mission: Impossible III solidified his reputation as one of the franchise’s most intimidating villains.
Dafoe’s Love for Green Goblin
Dafoe has repeatedly expressed enthusiasm for his Green Goblin character, emphasizing that he returned to the role only after ensuring it had substance and action.
“I really didn’t want to do a cameo,” Dafoe said during a Spider-Man: No Way Home press tour. “I wanted there to be action—something to root the character. Otherwise, it just becomes a series of memes.”
Thornton’s Current Focus
While he’s sidestepped Hollywood blockbusters and superhero franchises, Thornton continues to build a diverse resume. He currently stars in Landman, a Paramount+ drama, further demonstrating his preference for layered, unconventional characters over larger-than-life villains.
Thornton’s decision highlights the different approaches actors take in shaping their legacies—some embracing the spotlight of blockbuster roles and others seeking more understated paths. Either way, his fans continue to appreciate his distinct career choices.
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