10 Shocking Facts About Wesley Snipes That You Won’t Believe!
Wesley Snipes, a name synonymous with action-packed films and iconic roles, has had a career filled with remarkable highs and unexpected twists. From his unforgettable portrayal of Blade to his surprising ventures outside of Hollywood, Snipes is a fascinating figure in the entertainment world. But there are many things about this martial artist, actor, and producer that might surprise even his biggest fans. Here are 10 shocking facts about Wesley Snipes that you won’t believe!
1. Wesley Snipes Is a Real-Life Martial Arts Expert
While many Hollywood actors train for roles, Wesley Snipes is the real deal when it comes to martial arts. He holds a 5th-degree black belt in Shotokan Karate and a 2nd-degree black belt in Hapkido. He has also trained in various other disciplines, including Kung Fu, Capoeira, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. This extensive martial arts background is what makes his action scenes so authentic and thrilling.
2. He Was Almost the Black Panther Before Blade
Before Marvel’s “Black Panther” became a cultural phenomenon, Wesley Snipes was working on bringing the character to life in the early 1990s. He was passionate about the project, but it never materialized due to creative differences and technological limitations at the time. Snipes eventually found his superhero moment with the “Blade” trilogy, which laid the groundwork for the modern superhero movie boom.
3. Snipes Has Ties to Royalty
Believe it or not, Wesley Snipes has royal connections! In 2009, he was given the honorary title of Prince of Igbo Land by the Igbo people of Nigeria. This honour was bestowed upon him in recognition of his contributions to African-American culture and his efforts in promoting the heritage of the African diaspora.
4. He Almost Played Major League Baseball
Before becoming a Hollywood star, Wesley Snipes was a talented baseball player with dreams of going pro. He played during high school and was even offered a baseball scholarship, but he chose to pursue acting instead. Interestingly, his baseball skills were later showcased in the film “Major League,” where he played the charismatic outfielder Willie Mays Hayes.
5. Wesley Snipes Was Born in Orlando, Florida, But Raised in the South Bronx
Wesley Snipes was born in Orlando, Florida, but his family moved to the South Bronx when he was a child. Growing up in New York City’s toughest neighbourhoods, Snipes found solace in acting and martial arts, which eventually led him to fame. This dual upbringing gave him a unique perspective and resilience that would shape his career.
6. He’s a Trained Dancer
In addition to being an accomplished martial artist and actor, Wesley Snipes is also a trained dancer. He attended the Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts, where he studied dance, alongside acting. His dance training has contributed to the fluidity and grace of his fight choreography on screen.
7. Wesley Snipes Served Time in Prison for Tax Evasion
One of the most shocking episodes of Wesley Snipes’ life occurred in 2010 when he was sentenced to three years in federal prison for tax evasion. He was convicted of failing to file tax returns from 1999 to 2001, during which he owed millions to the IRS. Snipes served 28 months before being released on house arrest in 2013. Despite this setback, he has successfully returned to acting.
8. He Turned Down the Role of Lucious Lyon in “Empire”
The role of Lucious Lyon in the hit TV series “Empire” was originally offered to Wesley Snipes. However, he turned it down, and the role eventually went to Terrence Howard. While fans might wonder what Snipes’ version of the character would have been like, Howard’s portrayal has certainly left an indelible mark on the series.
9. He Was Almost the Terminator in “Terminator 2”
Wesley Snipes was considered for the role of the T-1000 in “Terminator 2: Judgment Day.” Although he ultimately didn’t get the part, this near-casting shows how Snipes was already on Hollywood’s radar as a potential action star early in his career. The role eventually went to Robert Patrick, but Snipes’ career took off with other iconic roles.
10. Wesley Snipes Is an Author
In addition to his acting and martial arts prowess, Wesley Snipes is also an author. He co-wrote a supernatural thriller novel titled “Talon of God” in 2017. The book, which delves into themes of good versus evil, features a strong female protagonist who must battle demonic forces. It’s a fascinating extension of Snipes’ interests in the supernatural and action-packed storytelling.
Conclusion
Wesley Snipes is more than just an action star—he’s a man of many talents and a life filled with fascinating experiences. From his martial arts mastery to his close call with royalty, these shocking facts offer a glimpse into the multi-faceted world of Wesley Snipes. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering his work, these tidbits will give you a new appreciation for the man behind the iconic roles.
If these facts blew your mind, make sure to share this article with fellow Wesley Snipes fans and check out more of our content for more surprising celebrity insights!
