Henry Cavill turning down 300 leading role for James Bond became a defining moment in the actor’s Hollywood journey. In 2006, Cavill passed on a star role in Zack Snyder’s action film 300 to focus on his chance to become the next James Bond, a coveted opportunity that ultimately went to Daniel Craig.
How Henry Cavill Missed Out on Both 300 and James Bond
In the years before he gained fame as Superman, Henry Cavill had built a reputation for narrowly missing out on blockbuster roles, including Batman and James Bond. His choice to forego a part in 300 was fueled by his determination to win the role of 007 in Casino Royale. Cavill’s hope that prioritizing Bond would pay off did not materialize, as Daniel Craig secured the role, while Gerard Butler went on to lead as the Spartan king Leonidas in Snyder’s 2007 epic.
This decision became a turning point. Despite the promise of rapid success—had he starred in 300—Cavill’s path in Hollywood remained complicated. His later tenure as Superman ended with the DCU reboot under James Gunn, and his position on The Witcher was marked by behind-the-scenes changes. Had Cavill chosen differently, his rise in the industry could have been much swifter.
Cavill’s Own Words on Passing Up the Spartans
Henry Cavill spoke candidly about his disappointment over losing James Bond and the sacrifices he made in pursuit of the role:
“When I wasn’t selected for Bond, I was very disappointed. I’d turned down a leading role in 300 because it was down to Daniel Craig and me, and auditioning for Bond took all my focus.”
—Henry Cavill, Actor
The James Bond Audition: A Closer Look
Recent years have seen Cavill’s James Bond audition tape resurface, reminding fans of how close he came to taking on the iconic mantle. The audition, which saw Cavill finish just behind Craig, sparked mixed reactions, with some surprised by his presentation and others still believing he had the qualities needed for a strong 007 performance.
Gerard Butler and the Success of 300
After Cavill stepped aside, Gerard Butler was cast as Leonidas, delivering a powerful performance that anchored Zack Snyder’s acclaimed yet divisive adaptation of Frank Miller’s graphic novel. As Leonidas was an older figure, it’s likely Cavill—then in his early twenties—would have been considered for a younger Spartan, possibly Astinos (portrayed by Tom Wisdom). The film, celebrated for its striking cinematography by Larry Fong and kinetic battle sequences, continues to be a highlight in Snyder’s filmography.
Cavill’s Career After the Missed Opportunities
Although Cavill did not become a Spartan with Butler or step into Bond’s shoes, he found success collaborating with Zack Snyder as Superman in Man of Steel, Batman v Superman, and Justice League. Many fans maintain that Cavill should remain a central figure in DC’s cinematic universe, but industry shifts have led him toward new projects. He is currently set to appear in the action thriller In the Grey, directed by Guy Ritchie, as well as Amazon’s live-action version of Voltron and the highly anticipated Highlander reboot directed by Chad Stahelski of John Wick fame.
What’s Next for Henry Cavill
Henry Cavill’s career remains dynamic, driven by notable choices and unexpected turns. While he left behind major roles linked to directors like Zack Snyder and projects such as 300 and James Bond, Cavill’s resume now spans superheroes, fantasy, and action genres. As new ventures await, his decisions continue to shape his evolving legacy in Hollywood.
