Why Matt Bomer Didn't Get the Role of Napoleon Solo in The U.N.C.L.E.

The enigmatic and charismatic character of Napoleon Solo has been a favorite among fans of spy fiction for decades. When Warner Bros. decided to bring this character to the big screen, the studio sought out some of Hollywood's biggest stars to play the role. However, the final choice of actors for this role was not without its twists and turns. This article explores why Matt Bomer did not get the part of Napoleon Solo and delves into the casting process behind The U.N.C.L.E.

Original Cast Choices

The casting process for the role of Napoleon Solo was a whirlwind of speculation. George Clooney was initially cast, but the decision to depart from the project was made due to his recurring back injury. Following this, a list of top box office draws were considered, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Christian Bale, and Bradley Cooper. Each of these actors brought with them a significant following and a box office appeal, making them ideal candidates for the role.

Scheduling and Franchise Aspirations

With initial choices proving unavailable, the production team looked to Tom Cruise to take the lead. However, Tom was also filming Mission Impossible - Rogue Nation at the time, causing scheduling conflicts that led to his withdrawal. This left unit searching for a new actor who could step into the shoes of the legendary spy.

Henry Cavill, who had recently starred in Warner Bros.' Man of Steel, was ultimately chosen to play Napoleon Solo. Warner Bros. recognized the potential of The U.N.C.L.E. becoming a major franchise and sought an actor who had recently headlined a major film. Cavill, with his commanding screen presence and prior experience in blockbuster franchises, seemed the perfect fit. Matt Bomer, a talented television actor, might have fit the part, but he was not considered for the role due to his relative lack of mainstream film experience.

Was Matt Bomer Considered?

It is unclear if Matt Bomer was even considered for the role of Napoleon Solo. Given the studio's ambition to make The U.N.C.L.E. a franchise, it is likely they would have preferred an actor with more recent leading movie experience. Bomer, while a talented actor, primarily rose to prominence through his work on television series such as White Collar. Matt Bomer might indeed have fit the role described in many of the casting reports, but Warner Bros. seemed to lean towards more established film stars.

Conclusion

The decision to cast Henry Cavill in the role of Napoleon Solo was driven by both artistic and commercial considerations. While Matt Bomer's denial of the role may have been disappointing to some fans, Henry Cavill brought a level of experience and star power that fit the studio's ambitions for the franchise. Matt Bomer, though a talented actor, ultimately did not secure the role due to the selective criteria set by Warner Bros.