'The Godfather' Originally Had Robert De Niro Playing a Completely Different Role — Thank God It Didn't Happen

1972's The Godfather and its sequel in 1974 are two of the few perfect films in cinema history. A great adaptation of Mario Puzo's original novel and a fantastic exploration of the wider world and larger thematic concepts, and much of that is down to the casting. Every actor gives a wonderful performance in their role, both embracing the written characters and adding their own insights. Perhaps the most famous example of this is how Marlon Brando made his own decision to stuff his cheeks with cotton for his interpretation of Vito Corleone. However, one casting possibility almost changed everything, and it would have ruined The Godfather: Part IIas well as prevented a fascinating bit of Academy Awards history. Somehow, despite it seeming impossible to think of another actor now, Robert De Nirowas almost not in Part II because he came close to playing a rather minor role in the 1972 film.