Kate Hudson Breaks Silence on Turning Down Spider-Man's Mary Jane Role: "It Doesn't Feel Good" For over two decades, fans have wondered about the actress who could have played one of the most iconic comic book roles of the 2000s. Now, Kate Hudson is finally opening up about her decision to turn down the part of Mary Jane Watson in Sam Raimi's Spider-Man. In a recent interview, the Almost Famous star reflected on the opportunity that slipped through her fingers back in the early 2000s. "It's something I think about occasionally," Hudson admitted. "At the time, I'm sure I had my reasons, but looking back, I can't help but wonder how things might have been different." The role of Mary Jane ultimately went to Kirsten Dunst, who went on to appear in the original Spider-Man trilogy alongside Tobey Maguire's web-slinging hero. Dunst's performance as Peter Parker's love interest earned praise from critics and fans, cementing her status as a beloved figure in the Marvel universe. For Hudson, the decision to pass on the part has left a bittersweet taste. "It doesn't feel good to think about," she said. "I'm sure I had my reasons, but I can't help but wonder what might have been. It's one of those 'what if' moments in an actor's career." The backstory behind Hudson's missed opportunity is a fascinating glimpse into the high-stakes world of Hollywood casting. According to reports, the role of Mary Jane was highly coveted, with several up-and-coming actresses vying for the part. Hudson, then riding high on the success of films like Almost Famous and How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, was among the frontrunners. "There was a lot of pressure and a lot of competition," Hudson recalled. "I think I was intimidated by the scale of the project and the responsibility that came with taking on such an iconic character." At the time, the Spider-Man franchise was seen as a risky venture. Sam Raimi's previous films, while cult favorites, had not achieved the level of mainstream success that was expected of a major superhero adaptation. There were also concerns about the ability of a relatively unknown actor like Tobey Maguire to carry the weight of the lead role. "I think I was worried about the film's potential for failure," Hudson admitted. "It was a big risk, and I wasn't sure I was ready to take it on. Looking back, I realize I may have let my fears get the better of me." Ultimately, the gamble paid off, as Spider-Man became a massive critical and commercial success, launching Maguire to stardom and cementing Dunst's status as a leading lady. The film's triumph paved the way for a string of sequels and reboots that have kept the character at the forefront of popular culture for over two decades. For Hudson, the missed opportunity has become a source of both regret and professional introspection. "As an actor, you're always going to have those moments where you wonder 'what if?'" she said. "But I try not to dwell on it too much. I've been fortunate to have so many amazing experiences in my career, and I'm grateful for that." Still, the Mary Jane role continues to hold a special place in the cultural consciousness, and Hudson's association with it has become something of a minor legend among cinephiles and comic book fans. "People bring it up to me all the time," she admitted. "They'll say, 'Can you imagine if you had been Mary Jane?' and I have to just laugh and say, 'I know, I know.'" In the end, Hudson's decision to turn down the part was likely a combination of factors – uncertainty about the project's success, concern over the demands of such a high-profile role, and perhaps even a touch of youthful trepidation. But for the actress, the missed opportunity remains a bittersweet memory, a "what if" that will likely continue to linger in the minds of fans for years to come. "I don't regret my choices," Hudson said. "But I can't help but wonder sometimes, you know? It's one of those things that will always be a part of my story as an actor. And who knows, maybe one day I'll get the chance to play another iconic comic book character. You never know what the future might hold."