Matt Damon has joked Avatar suffered because he turned down a part in the record breaking movie.
The Oscar nominated actor was considered by James Cameron for the lead role of Jake but he had to turn it down because of a scheduling clash.
Speaking to Access Hollywood the actor said: "It's true, and I read the script and thought it was great.
"I talked to [Cameron] a couple of times about it. It was when we were making The Bourne Ultimatum.
"The timing was just off. [Cameron] was great. He said, 'No, you should absolutely stay and finish the job'. He was a gentleman about it."
Despite Cameron's understanding Damon admits that it was a tough project to turn down because he wanted to work with the Oscar winning filmmaker.
"It was harder to let go of because I really wanted to watch Jim Cameron work. I always take jobs because of the director... I think everybody would like the chance to sit next to Cameron."
"Clearly my not participating cost the film a lot."
Avatar has gone on to topple Titanic as the biggest grossing movie of all time, before going on to break through the $2 billion barrier.
Despite turning down the role Damon has not had an unsuccessful few months as his performance in Invictus has seen him bag a Best Supporting Actor Academy Award nomination.
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