Mark Wahlberghas seen one of Hollywood’s most prolific careers. Action hero, father in family movies, heartthrob, and even comedian, the actor has played all kinds of roles. But some have stood out within his iconic filmography.
Wahlberg has had some roles that established him as a serious actor, such as his participation in Martin Scorsese’sThe Departed. However, the one who really gave him the title was Micky Ward inThe Fighter, David O’Russell’s 2010 film, where he starred alongside big names like Christian Bale and Amy Adams.
The sports drama tells the real story of the boxer, who was managed by his mother and trained by his half-brother, Dicky. In the past, Dicky had been the pride of his town for having brought down a world champion, but drugs and crime ended his career. Meanwhile, his brother has become a boxing promise, and despite his powerful left hook, he always ends up defeated, leading Micky to choose between his family or his personal growth.
The film won 2 Academy Awards and had several nominations, some for Wahlberg himself. However, it could have had another big star in the lead role.
Related:10 Mark Wahlberg Movies Where He Showed the Most Range
Mark Wahlberg Was Not the First Choice for The Fighter
In an interview withThe Hollywood Reporter, producer Todd Lieberman revealed thatEminemwas the one they wanted for the role:
“The first person that we thought would star in this film was Eminem. Eminem was going to be Micky Ward. That was a moment in time where he had come off of 8 Mile, and he was interested in making movies, and he wanted to do a boxing movie. So that was something we pursued for a minute. And there was real life in that for a minute.”
Despite the noticeable physical difference and acting preparation, there is no doubt that the rapper could have been an exciting choice.8 Mile, the film loosely based on his life, was a resounding success, adding to his popularity in the world of music. Therefore, it would have been a good combination for the film’s promotion.
Fortunately,The Fighterdid not need a figure like Eminem to stand out and managed to become a brilliant title within the careers of Wahlberg and Bale, with the latter taking the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor.
