David Bowie Was 'Blade Runner 2049' Director's First Choice for Niander Wallace

David Bowie was originally considered to play the part of Niander Wallace in Blade Runner 2049, director Denis Villeneuve has revealed.

Bowie died in January 2016 after battling cancer, and Jared Leto was ultimately cast in the villainous role for the Blade Runner sequel.

"Our first thought [for the character] had been David Bowie, who had influenced Blade Runner in many ways," Villeneuve said to Metro UK. "When we learned the sad news, we looked around for someone like that."

While discussing the casting decisions made for the film, Villeneuve noted that the lead character of Officer K was "written for Ryan [Gosling] right from the start. He was perfect."

Blade Runner 2049 opens in theaters on Oct. 6.