Just about a year ago, when casting for "Solo: A Star Wars Story" was under way, Christian Bale was in the running to play a supporting role. Now, the actor has just confirmed he was indeed in negotiations to star in the upcoming spin-off.
Bale said in a recent episode of the Happy Sad Confused podcast that he was tempted to sign on for "Solo," citing his history with Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy whom he worked with as a child star in "Empire of the Sun" as his primary reason.
"Yes, [it was] very tempting," he said in the podcast. "I not only love the films going back to my childhood but also have a very long relationship with Kathleen Kennedy and Frank Marshall because they did Empire of the Sun many years back. There was discussion, [and] I hope there will be future discussions."
He did not specify why it did not work out nor which role was offered to him, but he was then linked to the role of Beckett, young Han Solo's smuggling mentor, which ultimately went to Woody Harrelson. Despite missing the opportunity, Bale did not close the door on any potential appearance in the galaxy far, far, away.
He admitted he is a sucker for the franchise, he even owns a Millenium Falcon toy and an AT-AT. His daughter shares his interest in "Star Wars," too. "My daughter, her first love was Darth Vader. She absolutely adored Darth Maul."
Bale has opted for smaller movie productions in recent years following his involvement in big ones. As recalled, he headlined Christopher Nolan's "Dark Knight" trilogy and starred as John Connor in "Terminator: Salvation. Fans may not see him in "Solo: A Star Wars Story," but there should be plenty of room for him in "Episode IX" and Rian Johnson's all-new trilogy.
In the meantime, he is set to appear next as Dick Cheney in the biopic "Backseat" and lend his voice in Andy Serkis' "Jungle Book" film "Mowgli" as Bagheera. Both projects are scheduled to premiere this year, with the latter debuting on Oct. 19. As for "Solo," it is due out in cinemas on May 25.
