Kurt Russell was not wanted for this role because of his past with Disney, but he proved everyone wrong

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The actor played his character so well that it became iconic.

Now Kurt Russell is synonymous with the tough guy from action movies. "The Hateful Eight", "Bone Tomahawk", "Big Trouble in Little China". But it wasn't always this way. And the iconic role of Snake Plissken in the film "Escape from New York" (1981) could have gone to a completely different actor.
Actor Kurt Russell with long gray hair on a turquoise background
Kurt Russell
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From 'The Barefoot Executive' to Saving the President

Before taking on the role of the one-eyed antihero, was known for Disney family comedies. He was recognized as the guy who starred with a chimpanzee in the movie 'The Barefoot Executive' (1971).

It's no surprise that when director John Carpenter suggested Russell for the role of Snake, the management of the AVCO Embassy Pictures studio (which distributed the film) was, to put it mildly, puzzled. Carpenter recalled in an interview:
They weren't sure Kurt could be a hero. They said, 'Well, he's just a Disney kid. The studio preferred more experienced and authoritative actors.'
AVCO insisted on candidates like Charles Bronson, Chuck Norris, or Tommy Lee Jones. Bronson seemed especially logical, considering that the inspiration for the film was 'Death Wish' (1974) in which he starred. But Carpenter was adamant. He literally fought for Russell, and eventually, the studio relented.
Young Kurt Russell sits at a table with a chimpanzee in 'The Barefoot Executive'
Kurt Russell in 'The Barefoot Executive'
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The Birth of a Legend

"Escape from New York" is a dark, stylish, and concise sci-fi action film. The action takes place in an alternate 1997, where New York has turned into a maximum-security prison.

When the president's plane crashes in this territory, the authorities have no choice but to turn to Snake Plissken, a former special forces soldier turned criminal.
Escape from New York – Trailer
This role was a breakthrough for Russell. His Snake – cynical, taciturn, with a gravelly voice and an eye patch – instantly became a cult character. Despite its modest budget, the film is still gripping.

According to Rotten Tomatoes, "Escape from New York" has a rating of 86% and is one of the most highly-rated action films with Russell. Film critic Justin Harrison admitted:
It was one of the greatest antihero roles of all time. Snake Plissken is why the film is so captivating.

What Do Viewers Say?

Viewers are unanimous: Russell is the perfect Snake. Many highlight his charisma, the ability to convey the character's essence with minimal words, and the skill to instantly switch from a relaxed state to a threatening one.

Users note that Russell gave Snake a menacing yet concise character, comparing him to a real snake.
This is a very engaging sci-fi action film that remains relevant to this day. Snake Plissken, portrayed by Kurt Russell, has become one of the most memorable anti-heroes on screen. His role is undoubtedly one of his best, and he has admitted it is one of his favorites. 'Escape from New York' remains relevant today, 40 years later, and is still a classic.
Reviewer Cinemaniac1984 from Imdb

Master of Transformations

Collaboration with Carpenter (including the film "Elvis," where Russell played the King of Rock and Roll, and "The Thing") opened the door for the actor to more serious and diverse roles.

Russell proved that he could be not only a "Disney boy" but also a true action star, an icon of the genre capable of breathing life into any character. And "Escape from New York" is a vivid confirmation of that.
Kurt Russell as Snake Plissken in "Escape from New York"
Kurt Russell in "Escape from New York"
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And if the film's atmosphere captured your heart, we recommend watching "Escape from L.A." The film continues Plissken's story, a role Russell returned to in 1996.

Do you think any of today's actors could play Snake in a potential remake?

Earlier, we at zoomboola.com talked about a film that Michael Caine called his best, but viewers consider an "absolute failure."