Christopher Nolan offered me 'Inception' first: Will Smith

“That was one of my beautiful scars," in response to the host's question about whether he had turned down Matrix.

“I don’t think I’ve ever said it publicly, but I am going to say it because we are opening up to one another. Chris Nolan brought me Inception first and I didn’t get it. I’ve never said that out loud. Now that I think about it, it’s those movies that go into those alternate realities… they don’t pitch well. But I am hurt by those, too,” he  further said.

Prior to Will Smith, Nolan had offered the role to Brad Piitt , according to  Hollywood Report. Nolan “requested a response within 48 hours”.

When Pitt didn’t commit, Nolan spoke with Will Smith and post that the film eventually went to Leonardo Di Caprio.

Will Smith said, "It hurts too bad to talk about" during his radio interview, expressing his remorse in ignoring the now-iconic flicks.

"Chris Nolan brought me ‘Inception’ first and I didn’t get it. I’ve never said that out loud. Now that I think about it, it’s those movies that go into those alternate realities… they don’t pitch well. But I am hurt by those, too," he added.

The film emerged as a successful project and went on to gross USD 836 million with its worldwide box office collection. It also starred Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Tom Hardy, Cillian Murphy and Tom Berenger.

Smith's upcoming projects include "Fast and Loose" from "Bad Boys II" director Michael Bay.

He will also feature in "I Am Legend 2", which is a sequel to the 2007 film. The actor will reprise the role of Dr Robert Neville.  (With PTI inputs)