3 MCU Characters Recast Before They Had Anything Interesting To Do

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In the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), some well-known characters were played by different actors than their initial ones due to various reasons such as scheduling issues, backstage dramas, or Marvel’s hesitance. Over time, a few actors have been replaced as MCU characters, with this practice even extending to the early stages of the franchise. Regrettably, in some instances, these replacements occurred prematurely, before the original actors had a chance to deliver substantial performances within the MCU.

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), notable character replacements have occurred, such as Bruce Banner’s Hulk (originally portrayed by Edward Norton, now played by Mark Ruffalo), Thaddeus Ross (transitioned from William Hurt to Harrison Ford), and the Red Skull (Hugo Weaving to Ross Marquand). These changes happened post their original actors’ significant contributions. While some other recast actors haven’t had as lengthy a run, these three were departed from the MCU prematurely, although some might argue this was ultimately beneficial for the storyline.

3) Thanos

Josh Brolin is now widely associated with the character of Thanos from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, following his powerful performances in “Avengers: Infinity War” (2018) and “Avengers: Endgame” (2019). However, before these movies, Damion Poitier portrayed Thanos in a brief cameo in the post-credits scene of 2012’s “The Avengers.” At that time, The Other (played by Alexis Denisof) warned Thanos about facing Earth’s superheroes, and Thanos responded enthusiastically, looking forward to “embrace death.” In essence, Poitier’s role as Thanos was temporary, serving as a stand-in before Brolin took on the character.

In The Avengers, Damion Poitier didn’t have any on-screen actions and his role was minor. However, in Captain America: Civil War from 2016, he had a larger role as a mercenary for Crossbones (played by Frank Grillo). Unlike Josh Brolin who portrayed the intimidating and powerful villain Thanos, Poitier only stood in as Thanos but didn’t have any speaking lines. It’s unfortunate that Poitier didn’t get to fully display his interpretation of Thanos since Brolin’s portrayal was highly acclaimed.

2) James “Rhodey” Rhodes

Initially, when James Rhodes, also known as Rhodey, debuted in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) in 2008’s “Iron Man,” he was played by Terrence Howard instead of Don Cheadle. In this first film, Howard portrayed Rhodey primarily as a military liaison to Stark Industries, and didn’t have the opportunity to wear the War Machine armor before being replaced by Don Cheadle in “Iron Man 2” in 2010. Although there were plans to have Howard reprise his role, the recasting resulted from a disagreement over salary.

Over the years since Iron Man 2, Howard has mentioned on multiple occasions that his initial salary offer was reduced to accommodate Downey Jr.’s higher earnings. However, Howard felt this wasn’t fair because he played a significant role in helping Downey land the role in the first place. Ultimately, Don Cheadle’s portrayal of Rhodey has proven to be much more impactful, with a long-standing career as War Machine that led him to become an Avenger and even prepare for his own standalone film, although the future of Marvel Studios’ Armor Wars project is currently undecided.

1) Cassie Lang

As a devoted Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) enthusiast, I can’t help but reflect on a bittersweet moment that unfolded in 2023’s “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania.” Kathryn Newton truly brings energy and charm to Cassie Lang, Ant-Man’s (Paul Rudd) daughter, a role previously held by Abby Ryder Fortson. However, it’s hard not to miss the captivating performance Emma Fuhrmann delivered in this part earlier. With roles in films like “Blended” and “Lost in the Sun,” Fuhrmann had the potential to make her big break in “Endgame,” where she briefly appeared as the 16-year-old daughter of Scott Lang, joyfully reuniting with her father following his return from five years in the Quantum Realm.

Surprisingly, Fuhrmann discovered she had been replaced when it became known that Newton was cast in Quantumania in December 2020. She was replaced by a star from Big Little Lies, as Marvel wanted to introduce a more seasoned actor and one with a look closer to the comic-book depiction of Cassie Lang. Sadly, Fuhrmann didn’t get the opportunity to demonstrate her abilities in this role, as Cassie is anticipated to have a more significant part in the MCU as a member of the Young Avengers who can change size.

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2025-08-28 14:40