James Cameron Reveals Truth About O.J. Simpson’s ‘Terminator’ Casting

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Nearly two years ago, Arnold Schwarzenegger hinted that he wasn’t the first choice to play the Terminator. He mentioned that former NFL player and actor O.J. Simpson was originally cast in the role. However, director James Cameron has now reiterated the real story behind the casting.

In December 2023, Arnold Schwarzenegger mentioned on the Smartless podcast that Sylvester Stallone originally offered the role that ultimately launched O.J. Simpson’s career to someone else. He explained that at the time:

James Cameron initially wanted me to play The Terminator, even before a contract was in place—he’d already pictured me in the role. He was trying to convince me, but I told him I’d rather play Reese. Cameron argued that I understood the Terminator character, specifically how he should move mechanically, and thought I could nail that aspect of the role. Eventually, he persuaded me to take the part.

Recently, James Cameron did a rapid-fire question session with The New York Times. When asked if he almost cast Arnold Schwarzenegger as the Terminator (T-800), he gave a short answer:

“Deny. It was never even considered for a split second.”

James Cameron Has Been Here Before


Orion Pictures

James Cameron has corrected Arnold Schwarzenegger’s memories about the casting of Terminator before. In 2019, Schwarzenegger claimed he originally wanted to play Kyle Reese and that O.J. Simpson was first considered for the role of the T-800. Cameron immediately stated that this story was inaccurate.

Let me clarify that immediately. Arnold is simply incorrect. It might be surprising to hear that! You don’t debate with Arnold… He never considered Reese for the role. O.J. Simpson was never a possibility, and that idea was dismissed right away before it gained any support.

James Cameron has explained how O.J. Simpson became linked to the Terminator story. He said that Mike Medavoy, who was in charge of Orion Pictures at the time, called him with a surprising casting suggestion: O.J. Simpson would play The Terminator, and Arnold Schwarzenegger would play Kyle Reese.

Gale Hurd, the producer and co-screenwriter, and I were both shocked when we heard the suggestion. I immediately told the person on the phone that O.J. Simpson wasn’t going to be cast in the film. Then, they asked if I’d be willing to meet with Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Although Simpson’s name came up briefly during the casting process, he was never a serious contender for any role in the film, especially not the famous part that Arnold Schwarzenegger ultimately made his own. Now, James Cameron might be searching for a new lead for the Terminator series, as he’s developing a fresh take on the franchise.

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2025-12-14 19:18