When it comes to iconic movies, Beverley Hills Cop is definitely one that comes to mind. But did you know that the first choice to play the lead role of Axel Foley was actually Sylvester Stallone?

Yes, you read that right. Stallone was originally signed on to play the wise-cracking Detroit detective in the 1984 action-comedy film. However, after some creative differences and script changes, Stallone ultimately decided to pass on the role. This opened the door for Eddie Murphy to step in and deliver the performance that would solidify his status as a Hollywood superstar.

While Stallone's take on Axel Foley would have undoubtedly been interesting to see, it's hard to imagine anyone other than Murphy bringing the character to life with his unique blend of charm, wit, and charisma.

For more information on the casting process for Beverley Hills Cop and the role that Sylvester Stallone almost played, check out this Mental Floss article.

Despite the initial setback with Stallone, Beverley Hills Cop went on to become a massive hit, grossing over $300 million worldwide and spawning two sequels. The film's success can largely be attributed to Murphy's performance and the perfect blend of action, comedy, and heart that director Martin Brest brought to the project.

If you're a fan of '80s cinema or just love a good buddy cop movie, Beverley Hills Cop is definitely worth a watch. And next time you watch it, you can't help but wonder what could have been if Stallone had stayed on board.

For more trivia and behind-the-scenes stories about your favorite films, be sure to check out sites like IMDb for all the juicy details.

So next time you pop in Beverley Hills Cop for a movie night, remember that Sylvester Stallone was almost the one cracking jokes and chasing bad guys through the streets of Detroit. It's a fun bit of Hollywood history that adds an extra layer of intrigue to an already beloved film.

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