Hugh Jackman almost starred in one of 2026’s most anticipated action thrillers before Alan Ritchson took over the role. Ritchson revealed the surprising list of A-listers who were attached to Motor City before he signed on to lead the revenge film.
Hugh Jackman, Jake Gyllenhaal and more were eyed for Motor City before Alan Ritchson
Several major Hollywood stars eyed the lead role in Motor City before Alan Ritchson ultimately landed the part.
During his appearance on Late Night with Seth Meyers, Ritchson shared that the script had circulated for roughly 18 years across the industry. He specifically named Hugh Jackman and Jake Gyllenhaal as actors who were previously in the mix for the project.
Ritchson recalled learning about the film’s long history after reading the script for the first time. “I called my team and I was like, ‘What did you just find me? This is incredible,'” Ritchson said. “They’re like, ‘Oh, this has been around for like 18 years, dude.’ Every leading man has been attached at some point, every director.”
ComingSoon previously reported that Jake Gyllenhaal, Chris Evans, Gerard Butler, and Dominic Cooper were all in talks to play the lead role. All four actors reportedly dropped out due to scheduling conflicts. Warner Bros. originally announced the project back in 2011 as a producer on the film.
Motor City features a unique storytelling structure that relies heavily on visuals rather than traditional dialogue. Ritchson joked about his limited lines during the Seth Meyers interview. “My family loves it. They’re like, ‘He’s the quietest we’ve ever heard him. It’s lovely. So peaceful,'” he said.
Director Potsy Ponciroli helmed the film from Chad St. John’s script. The movie also stars Shailene Woodley, Ben Foster, Pablo Schreiber, Ben McKenzie, and Lionel Boyce. Motor City originally premiered at the Venice International Film Festival’s Spotlight section last year.
The R-rated revenge thriller arrives in theaters on July 24, 2026.
