Originally, Gig Young was supposed to play the role but he was too drunk. As funny as Gene Wilder was in the role, he didn't really look enough like an old gunslinger.
And I just imagined Pat Buttram in the role.
Your thoughts on who else could have played the role?
Brooks wrote the part with John Wayne in mind. He showed the script to Wayne who loved it, but said he couldn't do it. It didn't fit into the "Wayne" persona.
It's funny, because Wayne did do comedy. He'd often guest star on a sitcom or variety show, so he knew humor. He just didn't want people to think "John Wayne" was a drunk and/or accepted people using the N-word.
Jim's character didn't use the N word though did he?
Hey! You're not old enough to drink! Now go and die for your country!!!
If he was thinking John Wayne, I'm surprised Mel didn't go after Charles Bronson or Lee Marvin.
shareDan Dailey was also up for the role but he didn't work out either.
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