The popular family film Paddington could have had an Oscar winner voicing the beloved bear.

However, the actor initially cast for the role felt he sounded "too old" to voice the character and turned it down. The 2014 film, which has since spawned two sequels, featured of Spectre and The Lobster fame as the voice of the title character.

The movie is based on the character and follows the story of a family who takes in the lost bear they find at London's Station.

The acclaimed actor who dropped out of the project described the experience as "bittersweet", admitting that while he enjoyed seeing the character develop, he didn't feel he was the right fit for the role.

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, known for his roles in films like Bridget Jones' Diary, Kingsman: The Secret Service, and Mamma Mia, was originally set to voice the bear.

However, it was confirmed that he had left the project during post-production. The film was released just a few months after his departure, with Firth stating that he had gone through a "period of denial" before deciding he wasn't the right person for the job.

Reflecting on his decision in 2014, he said: "After a period of denial, we've chosen 'conscious uncoupling'. It's been bittersweet to see this delightful creature take shape and come to the sad realisation that he simply doesn't have my voice. I've had the joy of seeing most of the film and it's going to be quite wonderful. I still feel rather protective of this bear and I'm pestering them all with suggestions for finding a voice worthy of him."

The news has sparked curiosity among fans on TikTok, who are now wondering how Firth's voice would have suited the beloved character. Firth, 64, is a renowned actor, having won an Oscar for his portrayal of King George VI in The King's Speech and receiving a nomination for A Single Man.

Paul King, the director of the Paddington films, praised Firth for his initial involvement in the project and for his decision to step down after realizing his voice didn't match the character. King stated: "I cannot thank [Firth] enough for his contribution to Paddington.

"We love the voice and we love the bear, but as our young bear came into being, we agreed that the two didn't seem to fit. So, with somewhat heavy hearts we decided to part ways." Fans were left hoping Firth could make an appearance in a later film. Paddington 2, which released in 2017, and Paddington in Peru, which hit cinemas in 2024, have not featured Firth."

Although Firth hasn't appeared in subsequent Paddington films, including Paddington 2 (2017) and Paddington in Peru (2024), fans remain hopeful that he might make a future appearance.

In reaction to the TikTok debate, one commenter argued: "Ben IS Paddington!" But another added: "I hope Colin does have a part in the next movie though! And a third wrote: "Aw I feel bad for Colin now... sorry mate I'm sure you were great."