Despite having largely retreated from the public eye, Jean Claude Van Damme's legacy as a 1990s action star endures - a career defined by his iconic kicks, powerful punches, and memorable roles in action films like Time Cop, Hard Target, Expendables, and Universal Soldier. While his reputation could have extended to the Fast & Furious franchise, it was thwarted by none other than the franchise's lead, Vin Diesel.
In a recent interview with The Telegraph, Van Damme disclosed he was on the verge of joining Fast & Furious. However, the plans were dashed by Vin Diesel, the central figure of the franchise, who vetoed his involvement.
While Van Damme didn't provide a reason for Vin Diesel's objection, the Fast & Furious star's history of antagonizing his fellow stars might provide a clue.
One of Diesel's most publicized feuds was with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. The rift between the two became glaringly apparent in 2016 when Johnson called out Diesel and other male co-stars after wrapping up filming for the eighth film in the franchise. Johnson's departure led him to pursue the Hobbs & Shaw spinoff alongside Jason Statham, distancing himself from the main series.