"The Predator" 2018 movie is beefing up its cast list with a slew of stellar actors. The cast has grown immensely since the project was announced, with Jacob Tremblay ("Room"), Olivia Munn ("X-Men Apocalypse"), and Sterling K. Brown ("This Is Us") among the many that have been confirmed for roles. It was also revealed that UFC lightweight champion Connor McGregor was offered the leading role in the film, but turned it down.
With a UFC title under his belt and multiple endorsements to boot, McGregor is one of the most in-demand stars in present time. While he is confirmed to make his acting debut in "Game of Thrones" Season 7, it was reported that the athlete backed out from other acting gigs including Vin Diesel's action flick "xXx: The Return of Xander Cage."
In an interview, as cited by Movie Web, McGregor revealed that he turned down a lot of offers because they didn't pay that much.
"The people from Predator who are having this new Predator movie, a blockbuster... They came in and tried to sell the whole s***. 'We want you to be the main guy and you're gonna fight Predator' and I'm like 'This sounds brilliant! How much?' Not enough," McGregor stated.
McGregor and the studio tried to negotiate a good deal for the gig, but McGregor ultimately dropped out. He explained that he also considered the heavy filming schedule, which would have him stay in Canada for eight weeks. He also anticipated that his filming schedule would overlap with the expected time his wife would give birth to their son.
"The Predator" director Shane Black commented on the issue, saying McGregor was not offered the lead role in the film. On Twitter, Black wrote that McGregor is a "great guy, nice as can be," but was not offered the male lead. He also went on to reiterate that Boyd Holbrook has already been booked for the role. Benecio del Toro was originally cast to play the male lead until he dropped out of the part.
Holbrook will play an ex-marine who learns about the existence of aliens, but it has having trouble convincing people to believe him. He will also play the father to Jacob Tremblay's character.