5 Iconic Roles Peter Ustinov Replaced And The Actors Who Were Originally Considered

<p><strong>Peter Ustinov</strong>, a name synonymous with versatile acting, directing, and writing, left an indelible mark in the world of cinema with his extraordinary talent. While many know him for his larger-than-life performances and that unmistakable voice, there's a less explored side to his career where he replaced other actors in roles that were initially offered to others. This article delves into five such iconic roles that Peter Ustinov assumed, and the actors who were initially considered for these parts, shedding light on the alternate universes of casting choices.</p>

Hercule Poirot in "Death on the Nile" 🎥

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Before Peter Ustinov took on the role of the Belgian detective Hercule Poirot in "Death on the Nile" (1978), Albert Finney was the first to portray the famed Agatha Christie character in "Murder on the Orient Express" (1974). However, scheduling conflicts or other reasons led to Ustinov stepping in for "Death on the Nile", creating a lighter, more comedic portrayal of Poirot that charmed audiences.

• Albert Finney: Originally played Poirot in "Murder on the Orient Express."
• Peter Ustinov: Brought a humorous and endearing take to the character.

<p class="pro-note">🔎 Note: Ustinov would go on to play Poirot in several more films, significantly shaping the public's perception of the character with his unique interpretation.</p>

Nero in "Quo Vadis?" 📜

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Peter Ustinov's role as Emperor Nero in the historical epic "Quo Vadis?" (1951) was initially slated for Charles Laughton, whose career was marked by intense, often dark, performances. However, Laughton's commitments or disagreements over the direction of the role opened the door for Ustinov, who infused the character with a blend of vanity, insanity, and even a touch of sympathy.

• Charles Laughton: Originally considered for Nero due to his commanding screen presence.
• Peter Ustinov: Played Nero with a mixture of mania and comedic flair.

Blackbeard in "Blackbeard's Ghost" 🏴‍☠️

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In the family-friendly Disney film "Blackbeard's Ghost" (1968), Ustinov stepped into the boots of the legendary pirate Blackbeard, a role that had been eyed by Orson Welles. Known for his deep voice and formidable presence, Welles would have certainly brought a different flavor to the character, but Ustinov's interpretation added a unique comedic touch, fitting well into Disney's vision for the film.

• Orson Welles: Known for his deep, resonant voice, Welles was initially considered for the role.
• Peter Ustinov: Provided a blend of menace and mirth as the ghostly pirate.

Grand Duke Peter in "Catherine the Great" 👑

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Peter Ustinov portrayed the ambitious and often buffoonish Grand Duke Peter in the historical TV miniseries "Catherine the Great" (1988). Originally, Laurence Olivier was considered for the part, given his illustrious career in classical roles. However, Ustinov's comedic timing and versatility allowed him to offer a fresh take on Peter, making the character both entertaining and pitiful.

• Laurence Olivier: His name was floated due to his status as one of Britain's finest actors.
• Peter Ustinov: Gave a portrayal rich in humor and pathos.

<p class="pro-note">🤓 Note: Ustinov's ability to balance the drama and comedy in his roles made him an excellent choice for characters that required a blend of both.</p>

Robin Hood's Father in "Robin Hood: Men in Tights" 🏹

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In the Mel Brooks comedy "Robin Hood: Men in Tights" (1993), Peter Ustinov played the role of Robin Hood's father, Lord Loxley. While this isn't a replacement in the traditional sense, it's worth mentioning due to the legacy casting. Earlier adaptations of Robin Hood saw actors like Basil Rathbone portraying similar or related characters, making Ustinov's role a playful homage to the tradition of casting distinguished British actors in Robin Hood films.

• Basil Rathbone: Known for roles like Guy of Gisbourne in earlier Robin Hood films.
• Peter Ustinov: Infused the role with humor and wisdom, fitting the film's parody style.

Conclusion

Peter Ustinov's career was filled with roles that showcased his versatility and charisma, often stepping into characters originally intended for other notable actors. From historical figures like Nero and Poirot to fantastical roles like Blackbeard and characters in parody films, Ustinov's ability to adapt and bring something unique to each part enriched the cinematic landscape. His legacy in film and theatre remains not just in his performances but also in the alternate casting paths that shaped his journey, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of film production and the serendipity of casting decisions.

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Who were some other notable replacements in cinema history?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Other notable replacements include Robert Downey Jr. replacing Terrence Howard in the "Iron Man" franchise, and Sean Connery being considered for Gandalf in "The Lord of the Rings" before Sir Ian McKellen took the role.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How did Peter Ustinov prepare for his roles?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Ustinov was known for his extensive research, whether diving into historical texts for accuracy or exploring character psychology to add depth. His diverse interests from languages to politics also informed his portrayals, making each role uniquely his own.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Did Peter Ustinov win any awards for these roles?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, Peter Ustinov won two Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actor, one for "Spartacus" (1960) and the other for "Topkapi" (1964), although not for the roles mentioned above, his performances in these films showcase his ability to adapt and excel in various roles.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>