In the meantime, Fincher began courting Brad Pitt to play the role of Ned Land while the film was kept on hold. However, in February 2013, it was announced that Pitt had officially turned down the role.
At the same time, Fincher started trying to convince Brad Pitt to take on the role of Ned Land while the film was being held up. Nevertheless, in February 2013, it was made public that Pitt had ultimately decided not to participate.