Oscar

John Wayne is an icon featured in many western films over the years. While he appeared in big movies such as True Grit and The Alamo, there were many roles he actually turned down throughout his career. There was one in particular he rejected because he called it “the most un-American thing I’ve ever seen in my whole life.” That role was Marshal Will Kane in the multiple-Academy Award winner High Noon. When John turned down the role, Gary Cooper got the job instead. In High Noon, Will and his wife are getting ready to leave Hadleyville, New Mexico. However, a criminal returns and wants to seek revenge on Will because he turned him in. John Wayne turned down the lead role in the film 'High Noon' THE UNDEFEATED, John Wayne, 1969, TM & Copyright ©20th Century Fox Film Corp./courtesy Everett Collection Gary ended up winning an Oscar for his portrayal of Marshal Will Kane, the movie winning four Oscars: Best Actor in a Leading Role, Best Film Editing, Best Music: Original Song, and Best Music: Scoring of a Dramatic or Comedic Picture. RELATED: One Famous Actress Wouldn’t Work With John Wayne For Years HIGH NOON, Gary Cooper, 1952 / Everett Collection Ironically enough, Gary wasn't there in person to receive his award so John accepted it on his behalf! When asked about turning down the role, John once said, “The most un-American thing I’ve ever seen in my whole life. I’ll never regret having helped run Carl Foreman out of the country.” Carl was reportedly a member of the Communist Party for a while. HONDO, John Wayne, 1953 / Everett Collection Do you think John should have accepted the role in High Noon? Or are you happy with the choice of Gary Cooper instead? RELATED: John Wayne On His Personal Rule For Accepting Hollywood Roles