Fact: The role of John McClane was never supposed to go to Bruce Willis. Originally, this role was supposed to go to Frank Sinatra Die Hard.
Die Hard is undoubtedly one of the most iconic action films of all time, with the young Bruce Willis delivering an unforgettable performance as the wise-cracking NYPD cop John McClane. However, it’s fascinating to imagine an alternate universe where the legendary crooner Frank Sinatra took on the role. In this article, we explore why Sinatra was initially considered for the lead in Die Hard and why he would have brought a unique charm to the character.
Frank Sinatra, often referred to as the Chairman of the Board, was a musical and cultural icon. Known for his charisma, suave demeanor, and powerful presence, Sinatra had a larger-than-life personality that would have added an intriguing dimension to the character of John McClane. His reputation as a versatile performer and his ability to captivate audiences would have made him a compelling choice to lead an action-packed thriller like Die Hard.
While Bruce Willis ultimately made the role of John McClane his own, Sinatra’s interpretation would have undoubtedly brought a different flavor to the character. Sinatra’s age and life experiences would have allowed for a more mature and seasoned McClane. With his rich history in the entertainment industry and his own personal struggles, Frank Sinatra John McClane could have infused the character with a unique sense of world-weariness, adding depth to the role and presenting a more weathered, battle-tested hero.
The reason the role was offered to Frank Sinatra ultimately was because he starred in the Die Hard prequel that you probably never heard of called “The Detective.” It was a 1968 movie on the novel written by Roderick Thorpe in 1966, called the very same thing. Frank Sinatra starred in that movie and was written in his contract to reprise the role in any later renditions of the McClane Die Hard series.
Bruce Willis is known for his tough-guy persona and his physicality, which suited the demands of the action-packed role in Die Hard. However, it’s worth considering that Sinatra, despite being in his seventies at the time, maintained a remarkable level of fitness and agility. His years of performing on stage, dancing, and even his brief boxing career would have allowed him to convincingly handle the physical demands of the role. Sinatra’s physicality combined with his unmatched screen presence would have been a sight to behold.
One of Sinatra’s most notable talents was his singing ability. Incorporating this aspect into the film could have added an intriguing layer to the character of John McClane Die Hard. Sinatra’s rendition of a classic song in a pivotal scene, or even a musical number incorporated into the plot, would have made Die Hard a truly unique cinematic experience. His musical prowess would have not only showcased his iconic talent but also provided an unexpected contrast to the intense action sequences.
Die Hard is credited with revolutionizing the action genre and redefining the modern action hero. Casting Sinatra in the lead role would have taken this reinvention to another level. Sinatra’s portrayal of McClane could have challenged the traditional archetype, introducing a more sophisticated, suave, and charismatic action hero. His ability to seamlessly transition between vulnerability and strength would have given the character a complexity rarely seen in the genre.
While Bruce Willis nakatomi plaza made the movie, he undoubtedly also made the role of John McClane his own, considering Frank Sinatra for the lead role in Die Hard opens up a realm of intriguing possibilities. Sinatra’s legacy, unique take on the character, physicality, musical talent, and ability to reinvent the action hero archetype would have made for a truly memorable performance. Ultimately, Die Hard’s success lies in Willis’s portrayal, but the Sinatra factor reminds us of the exciting “what if” scenarios that exist within the world of cinema.
References:
That Time a 73 Year Old Frank Sinatra was Offered the Leading Role in Die Hard. (n.d.). Www.youtube.com. Retrieved July 15, 2023, from https://youtu.be/xOXMAP8Y7g4
Turns Out Frank Sinatra Was Offered the Role of John McClane in Die Hard. (2021, November 23). National Review. https://www.nationalreview.com/corner/turns-out-frank-sinatra-was-offered-the-role-of-john-mcclane-in-die-hard/
George, J. (2023, July 4). Frank Sinatra Starred in the Die Hard Prequel You Probably Never Saw. Den of Geek. https://www.denofgeek.com/movies/frank-sinatra-starred-in-the-die-hard-prequel-you-probably-never-saw/
A Rat Pack Legend Was Offered the Lead Role in Die Hard Before Bruce Willis. (2022, August 18). CBR. https://www.cbr.com/frank-sinatra-lead-role-before-bruce-willis-die-hard/
