If Tom Selleck had played Indiana Jones as originally intended, his career, as well as the career of Harrison Ford, would have played out very differently. 1981's Raiders of the Lost Ark introduced the character of Indiana Jones to the world, marking the start of a hugely successful and beloved franchise. Brought to life by Harrison Ford, Indiana Jones quickly became iconic, characterized by his bullwhip, fedora, and roguish charm. The original plan for the character, however, was for Tom Selleck to play the archaeologist-adventurer.
When casting for Raiders of the Lost Ark began, Steven Spielberg suggested Ford for the lead role. It was George Lucas that initially resisted the idea, and an intensive casting process ensued, with then-rising star Tom Selleck eventually cast as Indiana Jones. However, Selleck was already attached to star in Magnum, P.I., and CBS refused to release him from his contract, forcing him to turn down the role in Raiders of the Lost Ark.
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Had Selleck been Indiana Jones in Raiders of the Lost Ark, his career would almost certainly have played out very differently. What's more, not playing Jones would also have had a significant impact on Harrison Ford's career, as well as the many ways the change in actors could have changed the Indiana Jones franchise. The differences between the two actors would undoubtedly have led to minor but important changes within the characterization of Indiana Jones, with Selleck's version of the archaeologist being different from Ford's.
Though both actors are known for their rugged good looks, Selleck's general image is different from that of Ford's, which would likely have led to changes in
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