Summary:
- Owen Wilson rejects $12 million offer for lead role in “The Juice,” a film about O.J. Simpson trial.
- Director Joshua Newton wanted Wilson for the part but was turned down.
- Wilson’s reason: unwillingness to star in a movie denying Simpson’s guilt.
Actor Owen Wilson reportedly turned down a hefty paycheck for a controversial role.
The film, titled “The Juice,” centers around the infamous O.J. Simpson murder trial. Described as a “satirical thriller,” it focuses on attorney Douglas McCann, who represented Simpson in a civil case.
Director Joshua Newton revealed he approached Wilson for the lead role. “Owen Wilson was perfect for the role,” Newton said according to The Hollywood Reporter. He detailed a meeting with Wilson, where everyone involved seemed enthusiastic. A whopping $12 million was reportedly offered to Wilson to take on the part.
However, Wilson ultimately rejected the offer. Newton quoted Wilson as saying, “If you think I’m going to take the lead role in a movie about how O.J. didn’t do it, you’ve got to be kidding me.” Wilson’s representatives haven’t yet commented on the report.
O.J. Simpson was acquitted in 1995 for the murders of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman. The highly publicized trial captivated audiences nationwide. While Simpson wasn’t found guilty in criminal court, a civil jury later determined he was liable for the deaths and ordered him to pay a significant sum to the victims’ families.
Despite Wilson’s rejection, filming for “The Juice” reportedly continues. Newton claims to have found a suitable replacement and expects to finish filming soon.
Whether “The Juice” will find critical or commercial success remains to be seen. One thing’s for sure: Owen Wilson’s decision to walk away from the project has certainly generated significant buzz.
