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Gary Oldman Says He Passed on Edward Scissorhands After Not 'Getting' the Script

His recollection comes in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter reflecting on roles he nearly took.

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Overview

  • Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, Oldman said he was on Tim Burton's short list for the title role in the late 1980s but declined after telling his agent, "I don't get it."
  • He said he never met with Burton about the part before deciding to pass.
  • After watching the finished film, he said he immediately understood Burton's vision, pointing to the opening visuals as the moment it clicked.
  • Johnny Depp ultimately starred, and the 1990 release earned about $86 million on a $20 million budget, with Depp receiving a Golden Globe nomination.
  • In the same interview, Oldman also recalled early talks about playing Scarecrow in Batman Begins before taking Jim Gordon, with Scarecrow going to Cillian Murphy.