80s action star explains why he's missing from the “Expendables”

The “Expendables” series boasts a line-up of legendary action stars. But film legend Kurt Russell didn’t want to be part of it for a specific reason.

The Expendables is a franchise with an incredibly impressive cast. The first film was released with the simple promise of bringing as many Action stars of the 80s and 90s to appear together in front of the camera. Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, Jet Li, Dolph Lundgren, Mickey Rourke and other actors were known to be on board. Only one big action star of the 80s decided not to appear.

At least in the action genre, “Expendables” made film history. In the video we show you even more legendary works.

Why Kurt Russell turned down “The Expendables”

As Slashfilm reports, Kurt Russell turned down Sylvester Stallone's request for “Expendables” because he was not no interest in ensemble acting Of course, he wouldn't change his mind until a few years later when Russell decided to join the Fast & Furious franchise, known for its ensemble cast.

Speaking to IGN, Russell spoke about this decision, explaining that unlike Fast & Furious, he wasn't really interested in “Expendables.” “I've never seen any of the Expendables movies,” Russell said. “It's not my cup of tea. It's like looking back for me.”

This action star also appeared in the “Expendables” series:

“Fast & Furious” also needed some convincing

Kurt Russell wasn't particularly keen to join the Fast & Furious franchise either. In fact, it took some convincing to get the actor in front of the camera. In the end, however, film fans won out and Russell joined the franchise as the enigmatic “Mr. Nobody.”

As for his opinion on “The Expendables,” the actor is probably not entirely wrong. As entertaining and bloody as Stallone’s franchise may be, it is undeniable that these films are based on older fans and nostalgia dependent. For some people, “Expendables” may feel like a trip back in time.

Find out how well you know these action stars in the quiz: