India, Oct. 10 -- John Wayne built his reputation as one of Hollywood's defining Western stars. Yet, in 1974, he declined a role that would go on to become one of the most influential Western comedies ever made.

The late actor turned down Mel Brooks' Blazing Saddles after reading the script. Brooks has recalled that Wayne enjoyed the screenplay but ultimately decided he could not appear in the film because of its raunchy humor.

The part eventually went to Gene Wilder after actor Gig Young left the production. Wilder's performance became one of the film's defining elements as Blazing Saddles earned both commercial success and critical acclaim.

The story resurfaced during a 50th anniversary screening of Blazing Saddles. Brooks revisited ...