Fans wanted Anakin Skywalker actor Hayden Christensen for the lead role in Twilight!

henry cavill, twilight’s edward cullen

Henry Cavill, the man known for portraying Superman and a brooding, grunting, swordsman in The Witcher could have become a vampire back in 2008!

Henry Cavill in a still from The Man From U.N.C.L.E | RatPac-Dune Entertainment

Although it might have been a good choice, fans had someone else in mind for the role of Edward Cullen in the 2008 film Twilight. When Stephanie Meyer (who wrote the books) announced the number one fan choice for Cullen, the name of Hayden Christensen was on top.

Hayden Christensen Had The Higher Ground

No, we are not talking about Star Wars. Although, Christensen did find fame by portraying the role of Anakin Skywalker so we are going to talk about it just a little.
Hayden Christensen's return as Anakin Skywalker in Obi-Wan Kenobi was a huge moment for Star Wars fans | LucasfilmHayden Christensen’s return as Anakin Skywalker in Obi-Wan Kenobi | Lucasfilm
Anakin Skywalker turned the tide when he became Darth Vader in the Star Wars franchise. Although he was supposed to be one of the good guys, Skywalker joined the Dark Side and became the world-famous Darth Vader.

First appearing in the 2002 film Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones, Hayden Christensen received mixed reviews as Anakin Skywalker. But for the role of Edward Cullen, he was the top choice for fans.

In her blog, Stephanie Meyer revealed that her personal preference for the role of Edward Cullen was The Witcher star Henry Cavill.

The most disappointing thing for me is losing my perfect Edward. Henry Cavill is now twenty-four-years-old. I’m not willing to relinquish Henry completely

However, Henry Cavill didn’t take part in the franchise, the blog further revealed a list of actors that were picked by fans for the role of Edward Cullen (in order of popularity).

Hayden Christensen
Robert Pattinson

Orlando Bloom
Gerard Way

In the end, fans got their second-best choice for Edward Cullen as Robert Pattison was cast in the iconic role. The films also paved the way for Pattinson to find fame in Hollywood. But to imagine Anakin Skywalker romancing with Bella Swan in the woods is surely a sight to witness.

Since Pattinson was eventually selected for the role, Stephanie Meyer had some comments to say about the selection. The author had revealed that she had no input in the casting process of the film but was happy that Pattinson was a part of it.

What Stephanie Meyer Had To Say About Robert Pattinson

When Summit Entertainment picked up the script for Twilight, they cast Robert Pattinson in the lead role of Edward Cullen alongside Kristen Stewart as Bella Swan.

Robert Pattinson became the huge sensation after starring in Twilight | Summit EntertainmentRobert Pattinson became a huge sensation after starring in Twilight | Summit Entertainment

However, in her blog, Stephanie Meyer revealed that she had some comments to share about Pattinson becoming Edward Cullen. Having nothing but praise for the actor, Meyer had some kind words to share.

I am ecstatic with Summit’s choice for Edward. There are very few actors who can look both dangerous and beautiful at the same time, and even fewer who I can picture in my head as Edward. Robert Pattinson is going to be amazing.

Pattinson indeed found his breakthrough role with Edward Cullen in the 2008 film. Although the film received average ratings, Twilight became infamous and eventually, famous.