The “Divergent” film series, based on Veronica Roth’s novels, is a defining teen saga set in a dystopian world, following Tris (Shailene Woodley) and her romance with Four (Theo James). While Woodley was the obvious choice for Tris, James faced tough competition from several actors for the role of Four.
With the series now on Netflix, we revisit the eight actors who auditioned for Four. Despite the high stakes, few have spoken about the audition process, but reports have identified the main contenders.
Alex Pettyfer:
Alex Pettyfer, known for his roles in “I Am Number Four” and “Magic Mike,” was one of the actors who reportedly screen-tested with Shailene Woodley for the role of Four. Although Pettyfer has not publicly commented on the audition process, his involvement was widely speculated.
Lucas Till:
Lucas Till recognized for his part in the “X-Men” franchise, was another actor who was mentioned as having been brought in for screen testing. Till has not confirmed these reports himself, leaving fans curious about his potential as Four.
Jeremy Irvine:
Jeremy Irvine, best known for his role in “War Horse,” was also listed as a contender for the role of Four. Like many of his peers, Irvine has remained silent on the details of his audition.
Brenton Thwaites:
Brenton Thwaites, who gained fame with movies like “The Giver” and “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales,” was reportedly another actor who tested for the role. Thwaites has not addressed these claims directly.
Luke Bracey:
Australian actor Luke Bracey, known for “Point Break” and “Hacksaw Ridge,” was said to have screen-tested for Four as well. However, Bracey has not publicly discussed his experience.
Jack Reynor:
Jack Reynor, star of “Transformers: Age of Extinction” and “Midsommar,” was reportedly in the running to play Four. Like others, Reynor has not elaborated on his involvement in the audition process.
Miles Teller:
Miles Teller, who ultimately played the character Peter in the “Divergent” series, confirmed that he initially auditioned for Four. In an interview with Vulture, Teller shared insights into his experience.
Alexander Ludwig:
Alexander Ludwig, known for his role as Cato in “The Hunger Games,” was another actor rumored to be considered for Four. Ludwig ultimately decided against pursuing the role, explaining to Perez Hilton that he was concerned about taking on another similar character so soon after “The Hunger Games.”
The competition for the role of Four was fierce, but ultimately, Theo James won the part and brought a compelling and memorable portrayal to the screen. His performance, alongside Shailene Woodley’s, helped to define the “Divergent” series and leave a lasting impression on fans.
As the series makes its way to Netflix, viewers can enjoy revisiting this dystopian saga and imagine what could have been with any of these talented actors in the role of Four.