Joseph Gordon-Levitt was in the running to star in The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift, a revelation that adds an intriguing layer to the franchise’s casting history. According to Barry Hertz‘s new book, Welcome To The Family, director Justin Lin envisioned Gordon-Levitt in the lead role of Sean Boswell, an American teenager who immerses himself in the world of drifting in Japan.
Initially, the film sought to feature established stars like Vin Diesel and Paul Walker. When those negotiations fell through, the focus shifted to a new character. Lucas Black eventually secured the role, but Lin had notably considered Gordon-Levitt as a strong candidate. Their discussions took place in the editing room of Annapolis, where Lin showcased his work to the actor.
Despite Lin’s enthusiasm, Universal Pictures expressed reservations. The studio was uncertain about Gordon-Levitt’s potential as a “big-screen leading man,” given his background primarily in television and independent films. This hesitance ultimately led to Black being cast, following a failed audition by Channing Tatum.
The casting choice for Sean Boswell reflects a broader trend within the film industry during that period. At the time, Gordon-Levitt had just transitioned from a notable role in the sitcom 3rd Rock from the Sun and did not yet possess the star power that he later achieved. In contrast, Black had recently gained recognition from the series Friday Night Lights, making him a more appealing option for a major studio looking to manage costs and risk.
Considering Gordon-Levitt’s talents, it is worth pondering how he might have shaped Sean Boswell into a more relatable character. With the role’s original concept of Boswell being half-Japanese, Gordon-Levitt could have added depth to the character, allowing for a nuanced exploration of identity rather than the portrayal of a “white savior” figure. This change could have enriched the storyline and perhaps paved the way for a more prominent role in subsequent films.
While there is no certainty that The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift would have been significantly different with Gordon-Levitt in the lead, the implications of such a casting choice remain fascinating. His performance might have elevated the film, possibly leading to a more impactful character arc and broader audience connection.
Lin, who directed several installments of the franchise, has yet to cast Gordon-Levitt in any of the sequels, while Black reprised his role in Furious 7 and F9. As Gordon-Levitt’s career continues to flourish, it raises questions about the missed opportunities and what might have been for both the actor and the franchise.
Welcome To The Family: The Explosive Story Behind Fast & Furious, The Blockbusters That Supercharged The World is now available, shedding light on the intricate dynamics of one of Hollywood’s most successful franchises.
