In the world of film, last-minute casting changes can alter a movie's entire trajectory. Joaquin Phoenix, known for his intense method acting and unpredictable career choices, was initially slated to star in M. Night Shyamalan's psychological thriller Split. However, two weeks before production began, Phoenix exited the project, leaving the filmmakers scrambling for a replacement. Enter James McAvoy.
The role Phoenix abandoned was that of Kevin Wendell Crumb, a man with 24 distinct personalities. McAvoy ultimately stepped in, delivering a stunning performance that earned widespread praise and became a cornerstone of Split's success. The film grossed nearly $300 million worldwide on a modest $9 million budget, marking Shyamalan's triumphant return to form after several critical misfires.
While Phoenix's departure remains somewhat mysterious, it's clear that McAvoy's portrayal was pivotal to the film's impact. His seamless embodiment of multiple characters brought a unique depth to the role, something even Phoenix might have approached differently.
The question remains: would Split have been the same with Phoenix? Perhaps not. Sometimes, it's the unpredictable twists behind the scenes that give a movie its magic.*
Split was released on January 20, 2017, and quickly became a sleeper hit. It remains a standout example of how casting shifts can change a film's legacy forever.
