The Lord of the Rings is one of the most successful franchises ever. 1 / 8
When the trilogy entered development, Russell Crowe was offered the role of Aragorn. 2 / 8
Crowe explained it was a phone call that caused him to decline. 3 / 8
He talked to Peter Jackson and realized the director wanted someone else. 4 / 8
"He should be allowed to hire the actor who he wants" Crowe said. 5 / 8
The role was ultimately given to Viggo Mortensen, who saw worldwide fame as a result. 6 / 8
Although Crowe would have earned $100 million from the three films... 7 / 8
... the actor stated he has no regrets about turning it down. 8 / 8