Why Did Jack Nicholson Turn Down the Legendary Hades Role in Disney’s 'Hercules' (1997)?
I wonder if the actor now regrets passing on it.
Probably you don’t know that Hades in Hercules (1997) went a long way before getting the shape and voice we all know and love. Since I love to dive deep into the backstories of movies and animation I adore, this one was no exception.
And what was my surprise when I learned that the legendary Jack Nicholson could have voiced Hades? I thought: wow, this could have been something entirely different. James Woods did an incredible job, but a Nicholson-style Hades?
That would have been something else entirely — and would have left a fascinating mark in animation history.
Concept Art Inspired by Nicholson
Animators even created concept art of Hades to resemble Nicholson. Gerald Scarfe drew the first red-sketch version, and John Musker, one of the directors, produced two pencil sketches.
Disney clearly wanted Nicholson’s signature charm in the film, showing how seriously they considered him for the role. These designs give a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse at how Disney developed one of its most memorable animated villains.
Why Nicholson Turned Down Hades
Money became the dealbreaker. Disney reportedly offered $500,000 for the role, while Nicholson requested $10–15 million plus 50% of merchandise profits featuring Hades. Unsurprisingly, Disney passed, and Nicholson walked away from what could have been an iconic villain role in Hercules (1997).
Jack Nicholson as Hades (from Disney's Hercules). Drawings by John Musker pic.twitter.com/dffnDkuH4l
— Down the Inkwell (@DownInkwell) February 19, 2021
James Woods Brings Hades to Life
Before Woods, John Lithgow was briefly considered for Hades. Ultimately, James Woods delivered the fast-talking, sarcastic, fiery Hades we all know today. While Woods’ performance is iconic, imagining Nicholson in the same role is exciting — a darker, more menacing take with his legendary charisma.
The Legacy of Hades Concept Art
The concept art for Nicholson’s Hades still exists and offers a fascinating look at Disney’s creative process. Red sketches, pencil drawings, and Nicholson-inspired designs show what could have been a completely different version of Hades in Hercules (1997).
These "what-if" images remain a treasure for fans of Disney villains and animation history alike.
What Could Have Been
So yes, Woods did an incredible job, but the idea of Nicholson’s Hades still sparks the imagination. Disney’s Hercules (1997) could have taken on a completely different energy with Nicholson’s voice, leaving a different legacy in animation history.
While Woods’ Hades will always be beloved, the Nicholson "what-if" is one of the most intriguing behind-the-scenes stories Disney fans cherish.
