Matt Damon says James Cameron offered him 10% of Avatar's profits. He turned it down because he was mid-shoot on Bourne and didn't want to leave his crew. Avatar grossed $2.9 billion. That 10% would have been roughly $250 million. Cameron later said there was never a formal offer.
Matt Damon Says He Turned Down 10% of Avatar. That Would Have Been $250 Million.
According to Matt Damon, James Cameron offered him 10% of Avatar's box office. He couldn't accept due to his Bourne contract.
Avatar grossed $2.9 billion. That 10% would have been roughly $250-290 million.
Cameron has disputed the framing, telling THR in 2022 that there was never a formal offer - only a brief availability discussion. The truth likely falls somewhere in between.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Matt Damon really turn down Avatar?
How much would 10% have been?
Verified Fact
Verified Apr 2026
Source: VarietyShow verification details
Verified Apr 2026. Damon said "profits" not "box office" in all interviews. Cameron disputed formal offer in THR 2023. $250M is approximate - exact 10% of profits unclear. Sources: THR, Variety, AV Club, Rolling Stone, Box Office Mojo.