Casting When Speed was under development at Paramount Pictures, Jeff Speakman was originally attached to star in the lead role. However, after the project was acquired by 20th Century Fox, Speakman was dropped. Stephen Baldwin was initially offered the role of Jack Traven but declined, citing the character’s similarity to John McClane from Die Hard (1988). Richard Grieco also turned down the role, later expressing regret over his decision. Other actors considered for the part included Tom Cruise, Tom Hanks, Wesley Snipes, and Woody Harrelson. Director Jan de Bont ultimately cast Keanu Reeves after seeing his performance in Point Break (1991), believing that Reeves projected a balance of vulnerability and strength. Reeves underwent physical training and shaved his head for the role, a decision that initially concerned the studio.
Casting When Speed was under development at Paramount Pictures, Jeff Speakman was originally attached to star in the lead role. However, after the project was acquired by 20th Century Fox, Speakman was dropped. Stephen Baldwin was initially offered the role of Jack Traven but declined, citing the character’s similarity to John McClane from Die Hard (1988). Richard Grieco also turned down the role, later expressing regret over his decision. Other actors considered for the part included Tom Cruise, Tom Hanks, Wesley Snipes, and Woody Harrelson. Director Jan de Bont ultimately cast Keanu Reeves after seeing his performance in Point Break (1991), believing that Reeves projected a balance of vulnerability and strength. Reeves underwent physical training and shaved his head for the role, a decision that initially concerned the studio.