Everyone nowadays has witnessed, heard of, or knows about the story of Harry Potter. It’s the epic saga of a young magic user as he battles a megalomanical sorcerer. But every good tale is always preceded by one that adds to its lore. The Fantastic Beasts movies starring the creature-loving Newt Scamander accomplish this role. These three films showcase an intriguing narrative featuring an ensemble of talented celebrities. And did you know Michael Cera was to be one of those stars?
The Story Before Harry Potter
The Fantastic Beasts trilogy tells a story that occurred long before Harry Potter was born. This saga focuses on Newt Scamander, a sorcerer with an affinity for magical creatures. He travels across the world to study and often helps the beasts he encounters. His findings eventually became a revered textbook that future wizarding generations use in school. However, similar to Harry, Newt finds himself opposing a wizard with malicious goals. And he’s joined by his various allies, including his mentor, Albus Dumbledore.
These Harry Potter prequels contain a cast of talented actors from all over. Academy Award-winning actor Eddie Redmayne plays the trilogy’s protagonist, Newt Scamander. His co-actors include Dan Fogler, Ezra Miller, Katherine Waterston, and Alison Sudol. Johnny Depp and Mads Mikkelsen share the role of the trilogy’s overarching antagonist, Gellert Grindelwald. And playing a younger and still Hogwarts professor, Albus Dumbledore, is Jude Law.
Michael Cera Turned Down Role
Scott Pilgrim star Michael Cera was once offered a role in the Harry Potter prequels. He was the first choice for the part of Jacob Kowalski, Newt Scamander’s human companion. But he turned it down for fear of becoming too famous. This phobia stemmed from his experience of adjusting to fame in his younger years. However, Cera’s views have changed since, meaning he could have a future franchise role. Maybe we’ll even see him in the Wizarding World at some point.
Final Thoughts
I’m surprised Michael Cera almost acquired a role in the Harry Potter universe. But I’m glad he turned down playing Jacob Kowalski because Dan Fogler worked out perfectly. Still, I wouldn’t mind seeing Cera give the Wizarding World a second chance. I can see him playing a wizard working alongside Newt Scamander and his allies. Or he could even be one of Gellert Grindelwald’s hundreds of radicals. Only time will tell if either of my predictions comes true or not.
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