When Doctor Strange casting began in earnest back in 2014, the
first name that surfaced was Jared Leto,
followed by Benedict Cumberbatch and Tom Hardy. With Leto apparently never being in consideration, it was reported that Marvel really wanted Cumberbatch or Hardy to play the MCU's Sorcerer Supreme.
However, scheduling conflicts kept both actors out of the mix, which
resulted in Joaquin Phoenix coming very close to accepting the role.
In the end,
contract negotiations with Phoenix fell apart (they wanted to close the deal and announce him at SDCCC 2014) and additional actors such as
Justin Theroux, Collin Farrell and Keanu Reevers were added to the mix.
Ultimately, Marvel circle back to Cumberbatch and the rest is history.
A
recent interview with Cumberbatch and director Scott Derrickson in Empire Magazine reaffirms that the Sherlock actor was Marvel's first choice all along and that the film changed its original release date to accommodate his schedule. "
I really did think I had to kiss it goodbye," said Cumberbatch to the magazine. If you can’t jump on board when the ride’s going past, that’s usually it so the hugest compliment they paid me was to come back to me. It motivated me to try to fulfill their faith in me."
ABOUT DOCTOR STRANGE
Dr. Stephen Vincent Strange is a Marvel Comics superhero created by Steve Ditko, who first appeared in Strange Tales #110 (1963). A gifted surgeon, Strange suffers irreparable damage to his hands and journeys all over the world seeking a cure. Eventually Strange ends up at the home of the Ancient One and begins a journey into magic and alternate dimensions , ultimately assuming the title of Earth's Sorcerer Supreme.
MOVIE SYNOPSIS: “Doctor Strange” follows the story of neurosurgeon Doctor Stephen Strange who, after a horrific car accident, discovers the hidden world of magic and alternate dimensions.“Doctor Strange” is the latest film in Phase 3 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Phase 3’s goal—over the course of four years and nine films—is to introduce audiences to new heroes and continue the adventures of fan favorites.