What actors turned down roles in American Beauty?

Kevin Spacey almost didn't take on the role of Lester Burnham in American Beauty because he was concerned about the sex scene between Lester and his daughter, Jane (played by Thora Birch). Spacey was also concerned that the film would damage his career, but he ultimately decided to do it and the film went on to be a huge success.

Other actors who turned down roles in American Beauty included:

* Johnny Depp as Lester Burnham

* Sean Penn as Lester Burnham

* Brad Pitt as Ricky Fitts

* Matt Damon as Ricky Fitts

* Leonardo DiCaprio as Ricky Fitts

* Edward Norton as Ricky Fitts

* Christian Bale as Ricky Fitts

* Joaquin Phoenix as Ricky Fitts

* Ewan McGregor as Ricky Fitts

* Heath Ledger as Ricky Fitts

* Jake Gyllenhaal as Ricky Fitts