The Rise of Movie Franchises
Over the past 15 years of moviemaking, the franchise has overtaken all other types of movies as the predominate moneymaker at the box office. Every major actor gets to play their part in at least a minor role within an ongoing film series such as the Marvel Cinematic Universe. While today it appears as if every single actor is the leading star of their own franchise, there are still a few performers left in Hollywood who have yet to take up a role in a long-running series.
Richard Gere looking dramatic in a scene from Pretty Woman
Actors Who Have Avoided Franchises
Some actors have yet to appear in a movie franchise due to the right opportunity never coming along, however, they are on record as stating they would not be opposed to a role in a franchise. Others have been very calculated and intentional with a decision not to appear in a movie franchise or sequels and instead pursue one-off roles or prolific creative collaborations with auteur filmmakers. Whatever the reason, there are still a few major actors who have never starred in a movie franchise.
Grace (Jane Fonda) in a floral blouse, sitting and smiling in Grace and Frankie
Notable Actors Who Have Shunned Franchises
Richard Gere, Jane Fonda, Sean Penn, Michael Cera, Toni Collette, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Saoirse Ronan, John Cusack, Daniel Day-Lewis, and Leonardo DiCaprio are some of the notable actors who have intentionally avoided the world of movie franchises and sequels. Each of them has their own reasons for steering clear of franchises, whether it's a desire for unique and unconventional roles, a preference for working with auteur filmmakers, or a deliberate choice to avoid the time commitment and typecasting that comes with franchise roles.
Sean Penn smiling in Milk
