Apparently, Will Smith wanted a $20 million payout to star in the upcoming live-action “Dumbo” adaptation, and Disney was unwilling to pay that much for the role, according to the Hollywood Reporter. The film currently has Eva Green and Danny Devito on their roster, and is in talks with Colin Farrell.
Disney is willing to part with Smith-levels of money if it makes sense to them though. Angelina Jolie reportedly made a similar $20 million for Maleficent, with a possible sequel in the future.
The Hollywood Reporter quoted one producer in regards to Disney’s casting decisions, who said, “The IP is the star of the movie. If you hired Jennifer Lawrence as Belle, would it really make a difference in the opening [of Beauty and the Beast]? Unlikely.”
