Grace Kelly rejected the role of Edie Doyle to star in Rear Window (1954).

Director Elia Kazan wrote in his autobiography that his ideal choice to play "Edie Doyle" -- one of the most famous female leads in movie history -- came down to only two women.

The brilliant, unconventional actress turned down the lead while she appearing on Broadway to great acclaim in "Picnic."

Frank Sinatra was signed for the role of Terry Malloy after Marlon Brando initially turned it down because of director Elia Kazan's testimony before the House Un-American Activities Committee but producer Sam Spiegel continued to push for Brando and he eventually was convinced to take the part.

The tough, mercurial actor lost the role of Charlie "the Gent" Malloy because he asked for too much money. Rod Steiger won an Oscar nomination in the part.