Who was originally cast to play Molly Brown in "Titanic"?

One of "Titanic's" most memorable characters almost had a very different accent on screen. Before Kathy Bates charmed audiences as the "Unsinkable Molly Brown," another powerhouse performer was set to bring this larger-than-life survivor to life. Which star nearly stepped into those first-class shoes?

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The answer is: Reba McEntire

Country music superstar Reba McEntire was all set to make waves as the straight-talking Molly Brown in "Titanic." But James Cameron's notorious production delays had other plans. The film's schedule kept sliding further back, creating an impossible clash with Reba's upcoming concert tour. As she later explained, "We couldn't reschedule all the arenas and everything."

It's hard to imagine how different Reba's career might have looked if she'd been part of what became the highest-grossing film of all time (at least until Cameron topped himself with "Avatar"). While she'd already conquered country music, "Titanic" could have been her breakthrough into Hollywood stardom. But when push came to shove, Reba had to bow out, making way for Kathy Bates to step in and make the role of Molly Brown her own.

The real Margaret "Molly" Brown was more incredible than any movie version could capture. This was a woman who mastered multiple languages, campaigned for Senate before women had voting rights, and took charge during the disaster when others panicked. Having two celebrated performers vying to tell your story? That's exactly the kind of legacy the "Unsinkable Molly Brown" deserves.