When news hit that ‘The Walking Dead’ was looking for The Governor for season 3, many actors threw their names in for the part, including horror legend Tom Savini. In the end, Academy Award Nominee John Hawkes was offered the role. However, in an interesting turn of events, he declined and the role ultimately went to British actor David Morrissey, who Whovians will recognize from the special ‘The Next Doctor’.

Movie Web had a chance to sit down with Hawkes while he was promoting the release of ‘Roadracers’ and he explained why he chose not to take the coveted role. Hawkes said:

“They offered me the role, and I just felt there would be someone else who could do it better. I was flattered, and I took a look at the series. It held interest for me, but I just didn’t feel like I was the guy for it. I have to be careful of what TV shows I choose, particularly ones that have commercials in them, because it’s going to be a different kind of television show. There are going to be sponsors. No matter how good the show is, if there are commercials, it’s going to be a different show, to me. That’s just my personal feeling. Yeah, it was nice of them to ask, and it’s a good show, but, again, I just didn’t feel I was the guy. They came to me and sent me the graphic novel and the first two seasons. I took a look at them, and just didn’t feel like it was for me.”

What? He turned them down because a show with commercials is different? Well yeah, but that’s nothing that should stop you from joining one of the most popular shows on cable today! I think Hawkes made a horrible decision turning down the part. Not to say that Morrissey will do a bad job or anything. I’m sure he’ll be great. I’m also sure that Hawkes could very well end up kicking himself once ‘The Walking Dead’ returns in the fall.

Do you think John Hawkes made a bad decision? Would YOU turn down ‘The Walking Dead’? Let us know in the comments.