Michael Jackson nearly played Jar Jar Binks

George Lucas was originally going to have none other than the late Michael Jackson play the character of Jar Jar Binks. Jackson was actually really excited about the part, but the deal eventually fell through over creative differences. MJ only wanted to do the part if he could physically play Jar Jar in costume, while George insisted that the character was going to be put on screen with CGI.

Jackson dropped out, and Ahmed Best was cast instead.