Kirk Douglas wanted the role of Ben Hur, but it was given to Charlton Heston. Douglas was offered the role of Mesala, but he turned it down. Stephen Boyd took it instead.

Hudson was set to play Judah Ben Hur, but contract negotiations broke down, and Hudson had to refuse. Charlton Heston stepped into the lead role as a result. Hudson later said it was his only career regret.

Burt Lancaster turned down the part of Judah Ben-Hur played by Charlton Heston.

Leslie Nielsen made at least two screen tests as Messala.