Tag Archives: Steve McQueen

Actors that Turned Down Iconic Roles – Part Two

Last blog, I was talking about how actors turned down iconic film roles, for whatever reason – it just didn’t interest them, they had a previous commitment, etc. Here are a few more people that turned down very important roles: Sean Connery as Gandalf in Lord of the Rings? Oh sure, Connery has made his mark in cinema, but he turned down the role of Gandalf in the Lord of the Rings trilogy, saying he “didn’t understand the script.” Too bad for Connery – he was offered up to 15% of the box office receipts by New Cinema, which could … Continue reading →

Pop Culture Memorabilia Brings In Big Bucks

At least it wasn’t a used hankie… I’m always amazed at how much people will fork over for items previously owned (or simply touched) by a big name star. A stained dress, broken lipstick, old socks, an empty dog food container that bring in thousands of dollars at auction always makes me question the buyer’s sanity… and source of income. But this next item is a bit easier to swallow: A classic Ferrari once owned by Steve McQueen sold for $2.31 million last night at auction. According to reports, an anonymous car collector threw out the winning bid (via phone) … Continue reading →

Steve McQueen Auction: Cool for Sale

Steve McQueen was and always will be the King of Cool. Even 26 years after his death (due to mesothelioma), he is still a pop culture icon. Almost as well known for his love of racing as his acting, Sheryl Crow paid homage to him in her song titled “Steve McQueen” – “Like Steve McQueen, All I need’s a fast machine.” Unfortunately, it was this love of racing that might have contributed to his premature death as he wore asbestos-insulated suits in the racecars. This past Saturday, November 11th, the famous Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles was the site … Continue reading →