John Wayne of Arabia? Actor was due to star as T.E. Lawrence in 1953 before film was cancelled

He made his name playing rugged Wild West cowboys.

But it seems John Wayne was once lined up to play a very British type of hero.

The actor was due to star as Army officer T E Lawrence in 1953 – but the movie was cancelled due to lack of funding, according to film historian Brian Hannan.





Wild West: John Wayne, who was once signed up to play Lawrence of Arabia, in his traditional cowboy role



The 1962 poster for the classic David Lean movie Lawrence Of Arabia, starring Peter O'Toole and Alec Guinness

It was not until 1962 that the project finally got off the ground, with Irish actor Peter O'Toole in the lead role.

The film, Lawrence of Arabia, went on to win seven Oscars, including Best Film and Best Director for Sir David Lean.Mr Hannan said: 'Had the film gone ahead with Wayne, it would have been a completely different take on the character.Contrast Wayne, this imposing actor, with O'Toole, and his slightly effeminate portrayal.