Owen Wilson’s decision to turn down a staggering $12 million offer for a role in the O.J. Simpson movie, “The Juice,” has sent shockwaves through Hollywood. The question of Simpson’s guilt or innocence has long fascinated the public, and the revival of this movie project only adds fuel to the fire of speculation surrounding the infamous trial.
Filmmaker Joshua Newton’s journey with the O.J. Simpson movie spans over a decade, from its initial conception as “An American Mystery” to its current incarnation as “The Juice.” Despite setbacks and changes in title, Newton remained committed to bringing his vision to life, especially after Simpson’s death in April 2024.
However, Owen Wilson’s rejection of a role in the movie has become a significant headline. Wilson was offered the part of Douglas McCann, a pivotal character in the story, but he declined the offer outright. Despite the lure of a massive payday and encouragement from his agent, Wilson stood firm in his convictions during a meeting with Newton and his team. He expressed disbelief at the idea of portraying a narrative that suggests Simpson’s innocence, stating, “If you think I’m going to take the lead role in a movie about how O.J. didn’t do it, you’ve got to be kidding me.”
Wilson’s principled stance on the matter has garnered praise from many quarters, as it reflects his unwavering commitment to his beliefs. Despite the setback, Newton remains undeterred and has already secured another actor for the role. The identity of this replacement remains a closely guarded secret, adding another layer of intrigue to the ongoing saga of the O.J. Simpson movie.
Ultimately, Wilson’s refusal to participate in the project underscores the enduring controversy and complexity surrounding the trial of O.J. Simpson. As “The Juice” inches closer to its anticipated release, it seems destined to reignite debate and fascination with one of the most infamous legal proceedings in modern history.