Keanu Reeves
Will Smith was originally planned to play the role of Neo but couldn’t as he had another movie filming at the same time. Nicolas Cage was also offered Neo but couldn’t take the role because of family obligations. Keanu Charles Reeves is a Canadian actor and played in several movies before the Matrix, including Point Break and Speed. He was born in Beirut (Lebanon) and is married to Jennifer Syme.
Laurence Fishburne
Laurence Fishburne thought the script of the movie was too smart for it to ever be made. He stated that he understood every aspect of what was written as well as the meaning behind it. There were rumors that Sean Connery was asked to play Morpheus, though they were incorrect.
Carrie-Anne Moss
Carrie-Anne Moss’ first big movie was The Matrix. She was initially unsure if the script would ever make it into a movie, as the budget was so large directed by the Wachowskis. She was also unsure if she could do all the acrobatics described Trinity did. However, she got the role and her acting career really started.