Bruce Willis Considered for John Wick Role Before Keanu Reeves
Can you believe it’s been a decade since the original “John Wick” hit theaters? Time certainly flies when you’re immersed in the exhilarating world of high-octane action, where a heroic figure goes on an epic quest for vengeance after the tragic loss of his puppy. Beyond the thrills and chills of the franchise, a significant part of its success stems from the creative minds of screenwriter Derek Kolstad and directors Chad Stahelski and David Leitch. These talented filmmakers have raised the bar for Hollywood regarding action sequences, prioritizing practical effects to create incredible stunt work that leaves audiences breathless. The “John Wick” films may indulge in over-the-top gunplay, but that kinetic energy is precisely what keeps viewers coming back for more, contributing to the franchise’s impressive global earnings of over $1 billion.
While the collaborative effort of Kolstad, Stahelski, and Leitch is undoubtedly crucial, we cannot overlook the pivotal role played by Keanu Reeves. His remarkable ability to execute realistic hand-to-hand combat and firearm handling injects a unique intensity into the movies, a quality that might have been lacking if a different star had taken the lead. However, it’s fascinating to consider how the series may have evolved had one of the biggest action legends—Bruce Willis—been cast as the titular character.
In a recent interview celebrating the film’s 10th anniversary, Leitch revealed that at one point, Bruce Willis was a potential candidate for the role. The production team at Thunder Road, including Basil Iwanyk and Peter Lawson, had their sights set on the then fifty-something Willis instead of the younger Reeves. Imagining what that would have looked like is intriguing; while Willis showcased his action chops in the 2012 film “Looper,” he might not have matched the fluidity of the 87Eleven stunt team, which could have led to a visually different cinematic experience.
Leitch noted that Reeves proved to be the ideal choice for the project, as he and Stahelski transitioned from second-unit directing to take the helm themselves. Their manager, Kelly McCormick—who is now Leitch’s producing partner and wife—encouraged them to seize the opportunity, and they did just that.
As fans eagerly await the next installment in the “John Wick” universe, “From the World of John Wick: Ballerina,” starring Ana de Armas, set to hit theaters on June 6, 2025, we are reminded of the unique path taken by this iconic franchise. What could have been is a captivating thought, but as it stands, there’s no question that Keanu Reeves was meant to bring John Wick to life.
