Unfortunately, DiCaprio's agents convinced him that the role would be far too violent for his fanbase to follow since he had just starred in Titanic. DiCaprio has not released a statement about regretting picking up the position, but he probably feels the heat deep down.
Ray Liotta, The Sopranos
Ray Liotta used to be one of the most recognizable mobster-type characters out there. So, it only makes sense that he was originally considered for the role of Tony Soprano on HBO's legendary program The Sopranos.
Liotta decided to turn the offer down so he could focus more on his career in films. The role was filled by James Gandolfini, whose depiction of Tony Soprano rocked the world.
Kevin Costner, The Shawshank Redemption
Kevin Costner was the biggest name in Hollywood in the 1980s and 90s. Because of this, Costner was the first actor considered when The Shawshank Redemption was originally dreamed up, but Costner wasn't interested.