Great Scott! Christopher Lloyd reveals he nearly knocked back the role of Doc in Back To The Future

GREAT SCOTT! He brought to life one of the most beloved film characters ever, but Christopher Lloyd reveals the decision that could’ve changed Back To The Future.

IT’S the decision that would’ve dramatically altered the future. Well, the hit film franchise Back To The Future anyway.

Christopher Lloyd brought to life the beloved and iconic character of Emmett Brown, better known as the mad scientist Doc, in the 1980s time travel trilogy, but the veteran actor reveals he nearly turned down the part.

Speaking to News Corp Australia ahead of his visit here for the Supanova Pop Culture Expo next month, Lloyd said he had to be convinced to sign on for the project.

Film classic ... Christopher Lloyd and Michael J Fox in scene from film Back To The Future, the popularity of which hasn’t diminished in the 30 years since its release. Picture: Supplied

“At first I was going to turn it down,” he said. “I was planning to go back to New York to pursue a theatre career — that’s where I started out.

“I really had to think about the film. There was some hesitation.”

Producers had their hearts set on nabbing the acclaimed character actor for the film and convinced him to meet with them one final time.

“I came to Los Angeles and met (co-writer) Bob Zemeckis and the rest is history.”

Chance decision ... Christopher Lloyd says he nearly turned down the role of Doc in the hit film trilogy so he could return to New York. Picture: Supplied

It wasn’t the only hurdle Back To The Future was confronted with. Before work even began, the project was knocked back by several Hollywood studios.

Then just six weeks into the shoot, the film’s leading star was replaced. Eric Stoltz had originally been cast as Marty McFly but was replaced with Michael J Fox.

“(Eric) is a very good actor — there was no problem in that area,” Lloyd recalled.

“From what I understand, they felt there was a certain comic flair they needed. They felt it was important to re-cast. It was a surprise to me.”

Popular pairing ... Michael J Fox and Christopher Lloyd on the set of Back To The Future, in the iconic time-travelling DeLorean. Picture: Supplied

But it was a welcome change. Lloyd and Fox hit it off instantly with a dynamic and chemistry that translated to the screen.

It’s that “dichotomy between Doc and Marty” that resonated most with audiences, Lloyd said, as well as the magic of time travel and the film’s many cool futuristic gadgets.

Australian visit ... Christopher Lloyd is a special guest at the Supanova Pop Culture Expo in Melbourne and the Gold Coast next month.

“The films still have a deep impact on people. Doc does these crazy things that open up Marty’s imagination to all kinds of things he always thought were impossible.

“That has a strong effect on both younger people and older people.”

Still mates ... actors Christopher Lloyd and Michael J Fox still cross paths and catch up when they can, Lloyd said.

It’s three decades since the first movie’s release and Lloyd said he could never have imagined its enduring significance.

“I wasn’t really sure how it would do. I didn’t think we’d get another two (films). It was kind of a surprise.”

Favourite role ... Christopher Lloyd considers Doc one of his favourite roles out of a long list of film, TV and theatre credits. Picture: Supplied

With a long list of credits over his 40-year film, television and stage career, Lloyd still considers Back To The Future as one of his favourite roles.

And he doesn’t mind fans continually coming up to him to talk about it, recount their favourite moments or yell quotes at him.

“It’s very nice. It had a deep impact on it — both those who grew up with it and their kids who have watched it since.”

The Supanova Pop Culture Expo takes place in Melbourne on April 11 and 12, and on the Gold Coast on April 18 and 19. Tickets are on sale now through Moshtix.