Keanu Reeves’ depiction of Neo in The Matrix franchise is legendary. Neo, whose real name is Thomas Anderson, is a computer hacker who unveils a dystopian world governed by machines. Reeves’ compelling charisma in portraying the character who defies the system transformed Neo into a symbol of cultural rebellion and enlightenment. However, Reeves wasn’t the first choice for the role.
Keanu Reeves in a still from Matrix
During the promotional campaign for his fourth appearance as Neo in The Matrix Resurrections, Reeves engaged in a conversation with Esquire. They delved into his career and the exceptional series of events that paved the way for his current status in the industry.

Keanu Reeves Will Forever Be Grateful To Will Smith

In the course of their discussion, Keanu Reeves was queried about his thoughts on Will Smith declining the lead role in The Matrix before it came his way. Naturally, Reeves expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the film, which he acknowledged as a life-changing experience.

Keanu Reeves told Esquire:
“It was such a wonderful creative experience and so to play Neo in the trilogy and now in the fourth — it impacted my life personally and creatively,” he said. The actor then looked to the camera, seemingly to address Smith himself, saying, “Thank you very much.”
Will Smith
Back in 1998, the Wachowski siblings presented The Matrix to Smith. During that period, Will Smith was a rising star in Hollywood, known for his major successes like Men in Black, Independence Day, and Bad Boys. Nevertheless, when he heard the Wachowskis’ pitch, he found it less than impressive and chose to decline the project, ultimately opting to work on Wild, Wild West.

As fate unfolded, The Matrix became one of the most significant films of 1999, while Wild, Wild West received a lukewarm reception, and Smith himself regards it as one of his weakest projects. With Smith’s decision to decline the role, Keanu Reeves stepped in as Neo, a move that propelled his career and paved the way for future triumphs such as the John Wick franchise.

Other Actors Who Turned Down A Role In The Matrix

Smith isn’t the sole actor who declined an opportunity to join the Wachowskis’ successful film. In a recent revelation, it came to light that Madonna also rejected a role in The Matrix, in addition to declining parts in both Batman Returns and Showgirls.

Madonna told Vanity Fair:
“That’s like one of the best movies ever made,” she said. “A teeny-tiny part of me regrets just that one moment in my life.”
Keanu Reeves in The Matrix
Excitement was soaring for the fourth installment in The Matrix franchise in nearly two decades, however, it failed to resonate with the audience. Directed by the Wachowski sisters, The Matrix Resurrections was released in 2021 and featured a stellar cast including Keanu Reeves, Carrie-Anne Moss, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Jessica Henrick, Jonathan Groff, Neil Patrick Harris, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Jada Pinkett Smith.

The Matrix can be streamed on HBO Max.