Why Did Eminem Turn Down The Leading Role In 'Elysium'?

It turns out that legendary rapper and "8 Mile" actor Eminem was offered the leading role for an upcoming sci-fi epic, "Elysium," but decided to turn it down because the film wasn't being shot in Detroit.

If you didn't know, Eminem is a native of Detroit and very loyal to the city that raised him. Perhaps a little too much though, because "Elysium" would've taken his acting career to a whole different level and is projected to hit blockbuster status when it comes out in August.

The leading role ended up being given to Matt Damon, who was actually director Neil Blomkamp's third option behind Em and South African rapper Ninja of Die Antwoord.

Unfortunately for all you Slim Shady fans out there, Eminem is in no rush to return to the big screen:

"There are some things in the [works], a couple of scripts," he explained. "I guess it's more so of just waiting now to see how they come together. Obviously it's gotta be something that I feel is dope enough to make me want to say, 'OK, let me put the mic down for a second and go do this movie.' There are some things that are in the works. I guess we'll just see how they come together."

"Elysium" comes to theaters on August 9, and you can check out the trailer below:

via HotNewHipHop, Photo Credit: WENN