TIL John Astin, the father of Sean Astin (Samwise Gamgee), auditioned for the part of Gandalf, & had previously starred in Peter Jackson's horror comedy 'The Frighteners'
Open link in next tab
Addams Family Star Recalls How He Almost Played Gandalf in Lord of The Rings
https://movieweb.com/addams-family-star-recalls-how-he-almost-played-gandalf-in-lord-of-the-rings/
John Astin is known for his iconic role as Gomez Addams in the 60s TV show, but he almost became more famous as Gandalf in Peter Jackson's movies.