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James Cameron Refutes Matt Damon’s Long-Told 'Avatar' Offer Story

In a new Hollywood Reporter interview, the director says there was no formal offer or 10% deal, casting the anecdote as a mix-up over a scheduling call.

Overview

  • Cameron says Damon was never offered the role of Jake Sully, no deal was discussed, and the exchange never progressed beyond checking availability.
  • He rejects the oft-cited 10% of gross claim as Damon’s own extrapolation and adds that such a deal would not have been on the table.
  • Cameron recalls Damon personally phoning to decline because of a Bourne commitment and commends the move as professional and honorable.
  • The part ultimately went to Sam Worthington, and Cameron’s clarification comes during promotion for Avatar: Fire and Ash, which opens Dec. 19.
  • Major outlets repeated Cameron’s rebuttal, and with Avatar’s box office near $2.9 billion, Damon’s representatives have not offered new comment as of publication.