Jason Donovan Turned Down Role That Helped Pearce Find Fame

Jason Donovan regrets turning down a movie offer 20 years ago - because the role was handed to fellow Australian star Guy Pearce who used it as a springboard to Hollywood fame.

Donovan became known in the 1980s for his role in hit Aussie TV soap opera Neighbours before launching a singing career, but in recent years he's concentrated mainly on stage work in West End musicals.

And he's adamant his success could have mirrored that of Memento star Pearce - whose career also began with a Neighbours role - if he had accepted a part in 1994 movie The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert.

Donovan tells British TV host Melanie Sykes, "Actually, I was offered Priscilla the film back in 1991 and I passed on it.

"And in fact, Guy Pearce was the guy that took the part and look where's his career's gone. (But) things happen in life".