Marvel Assembles Ultimate 'Avengers: Doomsday' Cast – Iconic Names Make Epic Return!

Avengers: Doomsday is assembling an epic team.

On March 26th, Marvel officially revealed a significant lineup of stars set to appear in the upcoming Avengers film, scheduled for release in May 2026. This ensemble included numerous well-known actors.

The well-loved characters from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, including Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Tom Hiddleston (Loki), Paul Rudd (Ant-Man), Anthony Mackie (the latest Captain America), Sebastian Stan (The Winter Soldier), Danny Ramirez (the new Falcon), Florence Pugh (Yelena Belova), David Harbour (Red Guardian), Simu Liu (Shang-Chi), Letitia Wright (the revamped Black Panther), Winston Duke (M’Baku), Wyatt Russell (U.S. Agent), and Tenoch Huerta Mejia (Namor the Submariner) are all set to appear again in the upcoming superhero movie.

In the near future, the stars of the early 2000s “X-Men” films – including Patrick Stewart (Professor X), Ian McKellen (Magneto), Alan Cumming (Nightcrawler), James Marsden (Cyclops), Rebecca Romijn (Mystique), and Kelsey Grammer (The Beast) – are planning to don their X-Suits once more for an exciting on-screen gathering.

The impressive roster will be expanded to feature “Thunderbolts” cast members like Hannah John-Kamen (Ghost), Lewis Pullman (Bob), alongside the fresh “Fantastic Four” team: Pedro Pascal (Mister Fantastic), Vanessa Kirby (Invisible Woman), Ebon Moss-Bachrach (The Thing) and Joseph Quinn (Human Torch).

Additionally, Channing Tatum, who had an opportunity to portray Gambit in Deadpool and Wolverine over a decade following the unsuccessful film, will take on the role again.

The latest update arrives eight months subsequent to when it was disclosed that Robert Downey Jr. would rejoin the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but this time not as Iron Man. Given that his renowned character perished in 2019’s Avengers: End Game, the Academy Award-winning actor will assume the part of Doctor Victor von Doom, a fresh antagonist within the MCU instead.

Although specific details are scarce regarding Doctor Doom, the villain from the Fantastic Four comic books, Robert Downey Jr. hinted on Instagram in July with the statement, “New face covering, similar duties.

To look back on how the MCU stars were cast for their roles, keep reading…

Known primarily for his character Jung on the popular Canadian sitcom Kim’s Convenience, Simu Liu once donned a Spider-Man costume for children’s birthday parties during the early stages of his acting career. However, unbeknownst to him, he would eventually become part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Shang-Chi. This was announced at San Diego Comic-Con in 2019, or perhaps it was a secret he had been harboring, as the 32-year-old actor tweeted only a year prior, “Hey @Marvel, ready to discuss things or what #ShangChi?

In a 2021 interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Liu recalled receiving the fateful phone call.

On July 16th, 2019, around 6:30 in the evening, I had stirred from a nap and was casually snacking on shrimp crackers while in my undergarments. My canine companion was peacefully snoozing in our apartment. Suddenly, I received an unexpected call from Burbank, California. It was none other than Kevin Feige, his rich voice resonating over the phone, announcing that my life was about to take a dramatic turn for the extraordinary. This moment remains vivid in my memory.

As a seasoned lifestyle expert, I’m always thrilled by the behind-the-scenes stories of our favorite films. In this case, it was fascinating to learn that the coveted role in Marvel’s production wasn’t easily decided. I, myself, wasn’t one of the hundreds of actors Marvel Studios initially considered for the part. However, much like a late bloomer blossoming under the right circumstances, the chosen actor, Liu, emerged towards the end of the audition process and left everyone spellbound. It’s a testament to the power of persistence and timing in our dynamic world of entertainment.

Feige expressed that Simu Liu truly delivers as the authentic Marvel character. It’s no simple task to introduce a new hero to the Marvel universe, and there’s always considerable pressure on us and the actors. However, Liu has managed to impress us remarkably well, and I can’t wait for audiences to witness his performance when it premieres in September.

Initially, the person who was chosen for the role that eventually became synonymous with Tony Stark, a character now famously portrayed by Robert Downey Jr, wasn’t Marvel Studios’ first pick. However, director Jon Favreau persistently fought to secure Downey for the role, despite his past issues such as imprisonment and rehabilitation.

In a conversation with USA Today, director Favreau pointed out that Robert wasn’t content with simply making a conventional choice. His most significant and challenging life moments have been under public scrutiny. To conquer hurdles that transcended his professional life, he needed an inner equilibrium. Essentially, this is what Tony Stark represents, according to Favreau, by likening the actor to the character. Robert imbues the character with a richness that surpasses a typical comic book hero struggling with school or romantic difficulties.

In a dedicated manner, Downey fine-tuned the role, providing suggestions and asking for numerous retakes to ensure a scene was perfectly executed. He expressed, “I am more diligent now than I used to be.” “I want to prove to Jon that he was right to trust me,” he continued. “The doubts about my past were not relevant to him.

The gamble proved immensely profitable, resulting in the establishment of the globe’s most thriving franchise to date, catapulting Downey Jr. to the top of Hollywood’s list of desired (and well-compensated) actors, marking a triumphant return.

In simple terms, Kevin Feige, from Marvel, enthusiastically praised Robert Downey Jr., stating that he is exceptionally skilled, a remarkable actor, and has an exceptional character that could be utilized in extraordinary ways. He had faith that Downey Jr. could bring Tony Stark to life in an incredible manner. Feige emphasized that the Marvel Cinematic Universe wouldn’t have come into existence without Robert Downey Jr.

Initially, Favreau only contemplated Downey for the role of Iron Man, but other potential candidates like Clive Owen, Timothy Olyphant, and Sam Rockwell were also under consideration. Eventually, Rockwell was chosen to portray one of the main antagonists in “Iron Man 2”.

It came as a shock to many when Evans, who had previously been associated with the mediocre “Fantastic Four” film at age 29, was chosen by Marvel for the role of Captain America in the 2011 movie “Captain America: The First Avenger,” and as the emotional cornerstone for their Phase 1 series. However, this decision was not made lightly.

Recalling his experience, Feige shared that finding Captain America proved challenging. His thoughts wandered, “Could we really not find Captain America? If not, how could we proceed with The Avengers? Would the entire project crumble?” Eventually, they considered Chris Evans, who at first seemed an unlikely choice due to his role as Johnny Storm in the Fantastic Four franchise. After presenting him with the concept and artwork of the film, Evans took a weekend to make his decision.

Chris Evans has portrayed Captain America with the same depth as any actor has ever brought to a legendary pop-culture figure,” Feige added. “I consider Chris Reeve’s Superman as the ideal benchmark, and I believe Evans is on par. It’s hard for me to imagine anyone else in that role.

Initially reluctant, Evans confessed that he declined the role multiple times before accepting it. He shared with Jimmy Kimmel that his apprehension stemmed from the vast number of movies he would commit to and his personal discomfort in social situations within the entertainment industry, which played significant roles in his decision.

Indeed, he approached the situation in a very Channing fashion: “I was declining due to apprehension, truthfully,” Evans explained. “You shouldn’t act out of fear. You shouldn’t be doing something just because you’re afraid. It eventually struck me that whatever you’re afraid of, confront it.

It’s rumored that some well-known figures were contenders for the role of Cap. Names such as Channing Tatum, Garrett Hedlund, Scott Porter, Chace Crawford… and Dane Cook were reportedly considered!

In 2010, the comedian revealed to MTV that they were heading into a meeting about ‘Captain America,’ which was quite exciting. After Superman, he (or she) considered Captain America to be their preferred superhero, although it might not have been the best choice when aiming for a Marvel film role!

Absolutely, I can’t help but share my personal thrill about the time when John Krasinski, himself, recounted his journey that led him to even don the suit during auditions.

In an interview on Conan, The Office fan favorite expressed that it was a significant moment for him when they asked him to test and he was allowed to wear the suit. He found himself on a set, which made the whole experience quite intriguing.

Similar to numerous predecessors who donned the capes of superheroes before her, Brie Larson, a recipient of the coveted Oscar for her outstanding debut in the film “Room”, initially hesitated about assuming such an iconic part – one that is famously touted as the most potent figure within the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

She openly confessed to The Hollywood Reporter that she initially felt apprehensive about meeting. She thought to herself, “I don’t believe I can handle or contain what comes with a movie like this. I’m too shy and might crumble.” However, as they began discussing the film with her, she found herself saying, “Oh bother, this seems to encapsulate many things I’ve aspired for.

For Feige, Larson was the perfect choice.

In an interview with Variety, they discussed the challenge of balancing Captain Marvel’s extraordinary powers, which are unprecedented in our films, by introducing a character who is deeply human and easy for audiences to connect with. This character should form a bond with viewers, making them excited to watch her soar through the sun and destroy a moon from a spaceship. However, it’s also important that she exhibits relatable weaknesses. Brie is someone you’ll want to embark on this adventure alongside.

Following missed opportunities to recruit Emily Blunt for two past roles (details forthcoming), it’s said that Marvel considered her for a long-overdue addition to their superhero team, proposing she play the role of Carol Danvers, who is half-human and half-Kree, from “Mary Poppins Returns.

As an ardent admirer, I can’t help but ponder this: it’s consistently about what I contribute and what would captivate both me and the audience. If a role is enticing, whether it’s in a blockbuster Marvel production or a smaller independent film, count me in!

It seems that other potential nominees, according to reports, were actress Yvonne Strahovski from “The Handmaid’s Tale” and Katheryn Winnick.

In a seemingly effortless and fitting casting decision, Marvel’s boss Feige disclosed in an interview that Chadwick Boseman, renowned for his roles as Jackie Robinson in “42” and James Brown in “Get On Up”, was their choice to portray the future ruler of Wakanda.

At a table, we brainstormed the plot for Captain America: Civil War. Nate Moore, our executive producer, proposed introducing Black Panther as an unbiased third party who wouldn’t align with Captain America or Iron Man. Almost immediately, we all exclaimed “Chadwick,” and Feige recalled this at a 2018 press conference for the film. In my recollection, though it might have been the following day, we contacted Chadwick Boseman directly over speakerphone right then.

There was no audition process, no extensive negotiations required. Instead, just a phone call was made to Chadwick Boseman who was then in Zurich promoting the film “Get On Up”. Feige stated, “It’s often said in situations such as this, but he was the unquestionable choice.

After that, it’s a matter of record that Black Panther made history by becoming the initial superhero movie nominated for the Best Picture Oscar. In fact, it was the first Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) film to win any awards, and remarkably, it took home not just one but three Academy Awards! It also ranks among the highest-grossing films ever made. Long live Wakanda!

In August 2020, Chadwick Boseman tragically passed away at the age of 43 following a quiet four-year struggle with colon cancer. Upon hearing about his death, Marvel Studio decided not to replace him in the role of T’Challa for “Black Panther 2”.

As an authority on lifestyle and pop culture, let me share an interesting tidbit: Back in the day, Chris Hemsworth wasn’t quite a household name yet when he snagged the iconic role of the Norse deity. Interestingly enough, it was his own little brother, Liam Hemswworth, who gave him a run for his money in the audition process.

In Chris’ own words, he shared on Quora that he had an initial audition which didn’t turn out great. Later, his younger brother also auditioned and came close to landing the role. However, the producers decided against it as they felt he was too young at the time, so they reopened the casting call.

He went on to explain, “I was quite enraged when it seemed like my younger brother might land the role, so I returned with renewed anger. Fortunately, I had to reach out to him and ask, ‘How did your audition go? Any advice for me?’ Thankfully, he offered some tips, and as a result, I secured the part. It turned out to be a highly collaborative family affair, fueled by sibling rivalry!

According to a report from Deadline, Chris (who was 25 at the time) was initially not selected by the casting director. However, he was eventually given another chance and recorded a tape. After seeing this, Feige and director Kenneth Branagh quickly approved him for the role.

Besides the Hemsworth brothers, who were also considered, there were other notable contenders such as James Bond actor Daniel Craig, star of Grey’s Anatomy Kevin McKidd, WWE legend Triple-H, and then-rising stars Charlie Hunnam (before Sons of Anarchy), Joel Kinnaman, and Alexander Skarsgaard. Notably, Stellan Skarsgard, who later played Dr. Erik Selvig in the film, was an unknown at that time.

Following the missed opportunity for the role, Alexander Skarsgaard shared with MTV, “Indeed, I had meetings with Kevin [Feige] on a couple of occasions and also with the director [Kenneth Branagh]. Yes, there was a certain element of truth in that statement.

Prior to portraying the beloved character Loki, Thor’s trickster brother and god of mischief, in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, it was Tom Hiddleston who was seriously considered for the main role.

During my initial visit to Los Angeles, I got cast as Thor, the God of Thunder. After being represented by an agent due to my performance in a Shakespeare play in London, they invited me, saying, “Come to LA and we’ll show you around.” I auditioned for various roles, including Thor, since I had previous experience working with Kenneth Branagh from theater productions. This could have been a significant chance for me due to our past collaboration.

Although he felt “proud” of his audition performance, the outcome didn’t match his initial expectations; instead, he received a callback following instructions to build more muscle (achieving an impressive 7% body fat!).

Tom Hiddleston shared that both Kevin and Keith contacted him directly, stating, “‘It turns out you won’t be portraying Thor, but we’d love for you to play Loki instead.’ In a sense, it was an unexpected blessing, and there isn’t a shred of remorse about it in my heart,” Hiddleston expressed. “I’ve never once pondered, ‘If only I were playing Thor.’

As a lifestyle expert reflecting on my past creations, I must confess that I never could have imagined the overwhelming response my character would receive from fans. To put it simply, the ideal outcome was my best guess – but in reality, it surpassed any expectations I could have ever dreamt up.

Though fans mourned over Loki’s demise in “Infinity War”, this enigmatic character will have a chance to continue his story with a dedicated series titled “Loki” streaming on Disney+.

Feige once admitted to being “surprised and happy” by the outpouring of love for Loki.

In a 2012 MovieFone Q&A, he expressed his hope that the portrayal of Loki, with its diverse emotions and intense action scenes like Hulk’s brutal attack, would continue. He added, “Even if you weren’t familiar with Loki from comics or mythology, people, especially women, were drawn to him. Tom is physically attractive, but I believe it’s his mysterious darkness that gives him a bad-boy allure.

Following Natalie Portman’s departure from the series, Tessa Thompson stepped into the lead role of Valkyrie in Thor: Ragnarok, a character originally from the comics. Unlike her predecessor, Thompson’s Valkyrie was not solely a love interest for Thor. Instead, she played a more complex character, as revealed by director Taika Waititi when he first offered her the part. This version of Valkyrie became the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s first bisexual superhero, a fact Thompson had openly discussed during her initial discussions for the role.

In the early stages of our discussions with Taika about [the character], one never knows. Initially, there were talks, even in media reports, suggesting she might be a love interest. However, it was important for us to create a character who is independent and takes charge, rather than being tied to someone else. As I shared with Collider, from the beginning, Marvel and Taika wanted Valkyrie to stand on her own and bring something fresh and unique to the table. I believe they’ve made a smart move by giving more weight to the demand for strong, dynamic female characters who aren’t solely linked to males in the universe.

Despite facing criticism following the announcement of Thompson’s role, due to the character being portrayed as a white, blonde individual in the original comics, Waititi stood by his choice during an interview with Comic Book Resources.

From the beginning, our goal was to create a diverse cast, but it can be challenging when dealing with Vikings due to the need for authenticity. However, we aim to be more inclusive and offer a wider range of representation. To achieve this, we must look at the original source material as a flexible guide and then follow our instincts. In essence, we say, “Forget about it.” The character’s appearance in the comic book, such as being blonde and white, is not significant. That’s not what that character embodies.

He went on to say, “People tend to overlook this point. Hardcore fans might argue, ‘That’s not true to the original comics,’ but once they engage with the movie and get immersed in the plot, they quickly forget. The fact that we continuously need to revisit this topic is absurd, considering how easily we forget. Unless the film centers around it, why should we care? I firmly believe that the story should reign supreme, and the ideal choice is the most suitable person for the role. We cast a wide search, and Tess was the best fit.

Following Marvel assuming control of Spidey from Sony and with Andrew Garfield no longer in contention, many promising young actors found themselves vying for the highly sought-after part – even Timothée Chalamet, the current internet heartthrob, was among the candidates.

In addition to Charlie Rowe, Charlie Plummer, Asa Butterfield, Matthew Lintz, and Dylan O’Brien, other contenders were also under consideration. However, Marvel ultimately selected an relatively unrecognized actor named Tom Holland as their new Peter Parker in 2015. When the finalists were invited to audition alongside Downey for _Civil War_, which paved the way for a standalone Spider-Man film, Downey commented that “Everyone else was good, but there was an additional factor [with Holland].

In a press statement, Tom Rothman, chairman of Sony Pictures Motion Pictures Group, expressed his belief that Tom is an exceptionally talented actor who has the potential to become a superstar, just like some other rising stars he’s worked with in the past. He noted that during the auditions for Spiderman, many promising young actors were seen, but Tom‘s screen tests stood out as something exceptional. In conclusion, Rothman expressed his excitement about the project, stating they are off to a great start.

After the release of Spider-Man: Homecoming in 2017, Tom Holland was praised as “the finest Spider-Man yet” by critics. (Apologies to Tobey Maguire and Andrew!)

Has there ever been a more tumultuous role than that of Bruce Banner/the Hulk?

To begin with, Eric Bana portrayed the grumpy green colossus in the 2003 movie titled “Hulk”. However, when this film failed to impress both critics and audiences at the box office, Marvel opted for a fresh start. In 2008, Edward Norton stepped into the role in the film known as “The Incredible Hulk”.

As a die-hard enthusiast, I must admit that the movie performed decently, but let me tell you, it appeared as though Edward Norton wasn’t exactly enamored with the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s relentless filming and promotional grind. There were even rumors swirling about creative clashes behind the scenes.

In a statement prior to the commencement of The Avengers production, Marvel announced that they will not be casting Edward Norton for the role of Bruce Banner/Hulk. This choice was not driven by financial concerns but rather by the desire for an actor who embodies the creativity and teamwork ethos of the rest of the talented cast. The Avengers series requires actors who excel in ensemble work.

Stepping into the limelight here, I must clarify recent speculations that have stirred quite a storm. In response to assertions branded as offensive and unkind, my camp firmly denies these allegations. This decision, we believe, was primarily driven by financial considerations on Marvel’s part, rather than any personal disagreements or ill-will.

It turned out to be a fortunate decision for Marvel when they chose Mark Ruffalo as the Hulk. They discovered that the character functioned best within ensemble productions rather than solo films, according to Feige’s remarks at a press conference, and his portrayal made everyone quite content.

[Hulk] is like the modern-day equivalent of Hamlet, a role that everyone will have a chance to portray before the final curtain call,” Ruffalo humorously stated in an interview with Vanity Fair.

Prior to Scarlett Johansson assuming the role of Marvel’s initial female Avenger, portraying the ex-Russian spy turned tough S.H.I.E.L.D. agent Natasha Romanoff in 2010’s “Iron Man 2”, Emily Blunt was initially set to take the part. However, scheduling issues due to her involvement in the 2010 box office flop “Gulliver’s Travels” prevented this from happening (a grudge that will never be forgotten!).

Prior to Scarlett Johansson’s official selection, Eliza Dushku expressed her interest in portraying the role of Black Widow, asserting on The Howard Stern Show that she was a suitable fit for the character and that the production team just needed to consider it. Unfortunately, they did not.

Following her successful casting as the Black Widow, Johansson admitted in an interview that she dyed her hair red specifically to persuade Marvel Studios that she was their ideal choice for the character.

A little over a year before filming began, I sat down with Jon Feige (Kevin’s brother) and Jon for a chat about some potential Marvel superheroes. One character we discussed was Black Widow. It seemed they were considering incorporating the character into the movie, and we brainstormed ideas on how to do it. The next time I met Jon, I actually had red hair at the time. Part of that was me wanting to try out a new hair color, but another reason was hoping that he would appreciate my effort in changing my look.

However, it wasn’t until “The Avengers” that fans truly became acquainted with Natasha, despite director Joss Whedon having initial concerns about scheduling issues potentially preventing Scarlett Johansson from reprising her role in the 2012 team-up blockbuster.

Due to the tight schedule, there was a point where we questioned if Scarlett would be available, but I was overjoyed when she agreed to join the project as she significantly enhances the film and provides an intriguing contrast to her male co-stars. Scarlett, surprisingly, bears little resemblance to her character because she’s so amusing, charming, and incredibly adorable. I wanted her to embody a role that was nearly the complete opposite of her own personality as we aimed for Black Widow to be a darker version of the character she played in “Iron Man 2.” In this film, you’ll get a glimpse of her backstory, and it isn’t pleasant. The advantage with Scarlett is that she is meticulous about how she portrays characters, which made her performance as Black Widow perfectly suited to the character’s evolution.

At last, the wait is over as Johansson will star in a solo film titled Black Widow, set to premiere in cinemas in July 2021. The release was pushed back due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Following his exceptional portrayal in “The Hurt Locker“, Jeremy Renner was eventually chosen to play the part of S.H.I.E.L.D. agent Clint Barton, a role he had long been associated with, despite refuting the speculations for several months.

In a conversation with Empire, Renner mentioned that Hawkeye could be intriguing. He’s expecting some materials about it soon to find out more. He seems to think the creators are impressive because they’re trying to make superhero movies feel more realistic rather than just fantastical.

In 2011, Renner first showed up unrecognized in a small role in Thor, and it was in 2012’s The Avengers that his character Hawkeye was properly introduced. However, later on, the actor expressed dissatisfaction with the development of his human character within the movie.

In his conversation with the LA Times, he expressed that by the film’s conclusion, he found himself portraying only a small fraction of the character he initially agreed to play. He was on-screen for barely two minutes, and then unexpected events occurred. As a result, there isn’t much background information or clarity regarding Clint Barton, or Hawkeye, such as whether he is working for S.H.I.E.L.D. or not. There are many unanswered questions, even for him.

Later on, he commented, “I’m grateful I was part of the film… considering all the actors involved and the significant roles, I felt it was crucial that if I could contribute to the narrative, I fulfilled my purpose.

In the following installment, Whedon expanded Hawkeye’s part, introducing an unexpected plot point where Clint was revealed to have a spouse and children. Joss Whedon expressed his appreciation for this development in an exchange on Tumblr, stating, “I adored the concept that one superhero had a hidden aspect, and that it was that he was an ordinary person who had strong ties to the world, unlike any other superhero.” He also mentioned that they trimmed down elements that would have added suspense but ultimately, the emotional and thematic impact remained powerful for him.

With Jeremy Renner absent from “Avengers: Infinity War”, fans eagerly anticipated the portrayal of Hawkeye’s transition into the comic book character, Ronin, in “Avengers: Endgame”.

In an interview, Renner shared that he’s been given the opportunity to accomplish many amazing feats with this particular character, which has long been a dream of his. I believe fans will be quite satisfied once they learn about the character’s fate.

Come on, it was Samuel L. Jackson alone who perfectly embodied Nick Fury. The reason being, the character from the Ultimate Marvel Comics series was actually modeled after him.

As an ardent fan, I can’t help but confess: Sam was, is, and forever will be the epitome of coolness, a fact that Bryan Hitch and I discovered back in 2001 when we were crafting our masterpiece. We found ourselves drawn to him so strongly that we simply couldn’t resist using him in our work, without seeking any kind of permission first.

Looking back, it seems almost unbelievable that the concept of this project becoming a movie was ever considered possible. After all, Marvel was still struggling to regain its footing and the idea of cinematic success seemed as far-fetched as a superhero soaring through the skies.

In the end, Jackson agreed to a nine-film contract with Marvel Studios, and Nick Fury turned out to be a key figure in tying together many of the superheroes’ narratives. Initially appearing in the post-credits scene of Iron Man, Fury was the first character to appear in the Marvel Cinematic Universe in this role, and that unexpected cameo eventually became a pivotal moment for the entire franchise, although it wasn’t the initial plan.

Jon Favreau shared with EW that he added some surprises or “Easter eggs” to the movie that fans would enjoy. One of these was a post-credit scene featuring Nick Fury, which wasn’t originally planned for the script. Favreau thought it would be fun to have Samuel L. Jackson play Nick Fury because in the comic book series The Ultimates, they reimagined Nick Fury as Jackson. This was meant to be a nod to the audience, and Kevin Feige was also excited about the idea. They carefully chose their words for this scene, referencing the larger world and universe of the Avengers, and hinting at the eventual grouping of these characters. The intention was to show that this was part of a bigger plan, with those who stayed in the theater being the ones most likely to appreciate it.

Little did he know Feige has major plans.

As a lifestyle expert, I’d put it this way: In the making of Captain Marvel, the 9th film in the Marvel Universe, the filmmakers used digital technology to roll back Samuel L. Jackson’s appearance by two decades. This allowed him to portray Nick Fury during the mid-’90s, effectively serving as a sort of origin story for the character we recognize today.

Following his impressive role in the film “The Hurt Locker“, Anthony Mackie was chosen to portray Captain America’s latest sidekick, setting the stage for a delightful dynamic involving Sebastian Stan’s character, Bucky, which would eventually develop into an entertaining three-way friendship.

However, during the 2015 Emerald City Comic-Con, it was disclosed that he had initially approached Marvel with a different character in his thoughts.

Mackie mentioned that at first, he was penning the script with the aspiration of becoming Black Panther. However, they eventually contacted him regarding the character of Falcon, which Mackie was thrilled to portray.

He expressed his joy and satisfaction, stating, “I’m delighted to work alongside those folks daily, feeling like Falcon, Captain America’s companion.” It’s more rewarding for me to share the screen with a fantastic team in an outstanding film, rather than letting pride dictate, ‘I must be the star.’

In an interview with Collider, co-director Anthony Russo shared his reasons for casting Anthony Mackie as Falcon in “Captain America: The Winter Soldier”. He explained that they were drawn to Mackie because of his lively energy and sense of humor. This was particularly important for the character of Falcon, as Captain America is in a very challenging emotional state in the movie. In essence, he’s waking up to a modern world where everything he knew has been lost, and he’s grieving the loss of everyone close to him. It’s a deeply emotional and psychological place, and Russo felt that Mackie’s energetic personality would be just what was needed to help Captain America form a new friendship.

Following Captain America passing the shield to him in “Endgame”, Mackie then soared off to join forces with Stan in their very own Disney+ series, titled “Falcon and the Winter Soldier“. This series concluded with Sam taking on the role of Captain America.

Prior to being selected as Captain America’s friend-turned-foe-turned-friend once more, Sebastian Stan initially tried out for the main role. In Vanity Fair’s Still Watching podcast, Finn revealed they perceived a more ominous quality in Stan that didn’t align perfectly with Steve Rogers’ character.

In 2016, I openly shared my disappointment with People magazine, stating that I didn’t secure the role of Captain America. I vividly recall receiving a call, where they expressed appreciation for my performance, but regrettably, it wasn’t meant for me.

Luckily, another call arrived promptly, with the actress from “I, Tonya” expressing her excitement: “When they phoned me again to share about another role I might consider, I was thrilled because it meant my career wasn’t wrapping up just yet.” And indeed, this new opportunity would last for some time, as he inked a 9-movie contract, much like Evans did.

Now, it’s worth noting that Stan has been instrumental in bringing the Marvel Cinematic Universe to television, collaborating closely with Mackie on the series Falcon and the Winter Soldier.

Following her impressive breakout role in the critically acclaimed independent film “Martha Marcy May Marlene” in 2011, director Joss Whedon recognized Elizabeth Olsen as the perfect actress for his character – a Russian superheroine with mind-entering and telekinetic abilities, who had been subjected to experiments by H.Y.D.R.A., in his movie.

Initially, she wasn’t certain about the nature of the role she was auditioning for, confessing to EW, “I met with Joss and had a vague understanding of the characters we were discussing. No one informed me. I only knew it was related to the upcoming Avengers movie, and they were introducing two new characters, and that was the extent of my knowledge.

Previously, there had been a widespread speculation that Saoirse Ronan would don the role of Scarlet Witch. It was even said that Marvel used her as a model during the early stages of character development.

By the conclusion of “Age of Ultron,” Scarlet Witch became a member of the latest group of Avengers. However, she experienced two significant setbacks: the tragic loss of her brother in battle and the disappearance of her Russian accent, which was no longer noticeable by the time of “Infinity War.

In 2021, Wanda marked Marvel’s initial step into television with the series “WandaVision,” where viewers had the chance to witness the transformation of the character into the Scarlet Witch.

Ever since the very beginning of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, I’ve been utterly captivated by none other than Paul Bettany! You might not realize it, but this brilliant British actor has been a vital part of our shared universe from day one. Remember JARVIS, Tony Stark’s witty A.I. companion in the groundbreaking Iron Man film? That was none other than Paul Bettany lending his voice to bring that character to life! And let me tell you, the origin story of JARVIS is hands down the funniest and most memorable in the entire MCU!

According to Bettany, he received a call from Jon Favreau who mentioned, “I require a voice for a robot lacking personality, and you immediately came to mind,” Bettany shared with GQ. [Laughs] I found it the most amusing thing ever, so I agreed.

In the film “Avengers: Age of Ultron”, Marvel took an unusual step by choosing Bettany to portray Vision. Previously known as JARVIS (who has sadly perished), his consciousness and the Mind Stone were merged into a robotic form to bring about the creation of this superhero.

As a devoted follower, I’d like to share that Marvel has a rule against portraying more than one character within their universe. However, they made an exception for me because Joss Whedon was determined to introduce Vision into the cinematic realm and he wanted me to be the one to do it. In other words, they bent their own rules slightly in my case.

So how was the transition from two hours of voice work to physically being on set?

Initially, I’d work for two hours and earn an absurdly small sum, feeling like a pirate snatching a sack of gold at day’s end – that was Bettany’s jest. Nowadays, however, it seems there’s more responsibility involved; I need to be present and put in the work.

That stuff ultimately included starring with Elizabeth Olsen in Disney+’s WandaVision.

From being adored worldwide as the hilariously clueless Andy Dwyer on NBC’s “Parks and Recreation,” it was Chris Pratt’s spellbinding performance in “Guardians of the Galaxy” that catapulted him into the realm of true stardom. Beyond his remarkable journey from amusing sidekick to captivating leading man, Pratt astoundingly transformed himself both physically and professionally, leading an eclectic band of cosmic misfits as Peter Quill.

In an interview with The Huffington Post, Pratt shared that the role seemed tailor-made for him from the start. During his initial audition, he felt confident that he had aced it. However, he harbored doubts about his physical suitability because at the time, he was still quite large. Despite knowing that his spirit matched the role perfectly and that his voice fit perfectly, Pratt acknowledged that he didn’t meet the physical criteria yet.

Initially, director James Gunn had reservations, acknowledging that he wasn’t keen on Chris at first. Chris was heavier then, and Gunn thought of him as more of a comedian, believing he wasn’t suitable for the role. However, during his audition, just 20 seconds in, Gunn exclaimed, “That’s the man!

Despite this, Pratt managed to shed an astonishing 60 pounds within a span of six months, humorously chronicling his journey on Instagram (“Six months without beer. #GOTG It’s kinda douchey to post this, but my brother made me” was the caption for one of his gym photos). This eventually led him to grace numerous magazine covers and attract headlines praising his remarkable transformation.

Feige expressed his admiration for the actor, stating, “In ‘Parks and Rec,’ he plays a comically unkempt character, but in ‘Zero Dark Thirty,’ he transforms into an impressively muscular figure. This versatility is truly impressive, and it will undoubtedly serve him well in ‘Guardians.’

Unbeknownst to Chris Pratt during his audition, the Marvel team was already considering future roles. As Kevin Feige explained, “We typically cast for the current film, but we also keep an eye on the future. When we were choosing Chris Pratt as Star-Lord, we wanted the best fit, but we also thought, ‘We need someone who could potentially match up against Robert Downey Jr.’ (Which happened in Infinity War.)

Initially, it was difficult to envision anyone except Pratt with his charisma and style embodying Peter. However, Marvel had pondered over other potential candidates such as Eddie Redmayne, Joel Edgerton, Jack Huston, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Lee Pace for the part. Eventually, Pace landed the role of the antagonist Ronan the Accuser. But following Pratt, Glenn Howerton from “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” emerged as a strong contender for the role.

Among all the talented actresses, Zoe Saldana would arguably be the most fitting choice to portray the deadliest woman in the galaxy and estranged daughter of Thanos. This is largely due to her impressive action background, which encompasses roles such as those in ‘Avatar’ and ‘Star Trek’.

As a lifestyle expert, I’d put it this way: Rather than relying on computer-generated imagery (CGI) for the green assassin character, Zaldana chose to undergo extensive, four-hour makeup transformations every day instead.

In an interview with Net-a-Porter, Saldana dismissed any actors who criticize Marvel stars for doing superhero movies as being elitist. She argued that these critics should consider the impact their words have on young children, as they look up to superheroes. By disparaging her work, they are also belittling what is important to those kids. Saldana expressed pride in playing characters from other worlds and inspiring younger generations, recalling her own feelings of exclusion when she was young.

Nevertheless, Saldana harbored significant apprehensions prior to the official commitment, assuring that director James Gunn fully supported all her suggestions.

In a conversation with bloggers during a roundtable interview, she expressed her feelings about the script, saying, “I didn’t feel too enthusiastic about it as Gamora. You want me in every scene, but I don’t have any lines in them.” She continued, “It seems like I would be there for 6 months, endure 5 hours of makeup daily, 6 days a week, just to watch everything unfold without any dialogue or action? And before any break, you’d shoot my close-ups? I replied, ‘I’m sorry, but that scenario isn’t going to materialize.’

As a devoted admirer, I can attest that Gamora truly made an impact and served as an emotional cornerstone for the franchise. Her role was crucial, particularly during the events of Infinity War.

Initially, Saldana was Marvel’s preferred choice for a certain role, but there were also other actresses reportedly in contention such as Olivia Wilde, Gina Carano, and Adrianne Palicki. Interestingly, Palicki eventually became part of the Marvel TV universe, portraying Bobbi Morse in ABC’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. series.

Instead of following the traditional path of a Marvel leading actor like Bradley Cooper, he opted for an unconventional route in portraying a superhero.

During his interview on Ellen, Cooper explained that Rocket’s voice sounded like a mix between Gilbert Gottfried and Joe Pesci. Originally, he had planned to give Rocket a much more serious tone reminiscent of Daniel Day Lewis in the movie There Will Be Blood.

I myself may not have been aware that it’s not Cooper who slips into the green suit on set to embody Rocket. Instead, it’s Sean Gunn, the sibling of director James Gunn, who takes on this role. Interestingly, he also portrays Kraglin, a Ravagers member in these films.

As a connoisseur of lifestyle and cinematic arts, I can share an intriguing behind-the-scenes tidbit about one of my favorite characters, Rocket, from the Marvel Universe. On set, Sean serves as our motion reference actor for Rocket. This implies that we record every move Sean makes while he’s in character as Rocket during filming.

Director James Gunn once elucidated this process on Facebook, stating, “We film everything Sean does until we get the performance right. Then, we use that performance as a foundation for much of Rocket’s acting.” Essentially, we keep shooting takes with Sean until we nail the desired performance, and then we build upon that performance to bring Rocket to life on screen.

Prior to finalizing the director and lead actor for A Star Is Born, Marvel is said to have considered asking well-known comedians such as Adam Sandler and Jim Carrey to lend their voices to a crude-talking member of the Guardians.

Without a doubt, one of the most beloved characters in the $10 billion MCU (Marvel Cinematic Universe) franchise is voiced by an actor from another well-known franchise – Fast and Furious’ Vin Diesel. Interestingly, his journey in Marvel started as a joke because the studio contacted him about a role following his Facebook post where he claimed that Marvel had “asked for a meeting.

Instead of just having a single phrase, “I am Groot,” Diesel was given individualized scripts for each instance when Groot talks, providing insight into the meaning and tone behind Groot’s speech.

James Gunn previously shared on Instagram that there’s a unique version of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 script, known as the “Groot Version,” which contains every line spoken by Groot translated into English, and this special edition is only accessible to him and Vin Diesel.

Even though Groot perished at the conclusion of Guardians of the Galaxy, only to be resurrected as a small pot-bound sapling, Diesel continued to lend his voice to Baby Groot.

In his conversation with EW, Gunn explained that we make minimal adjustments to a few of our characters, but it’s quite insignificant. Primarily, it’s Vin’s voice that stands out, as he can deliver lines in a pitch range higher than usual for him.

Prior to securing a major role in DC’s Aquaman, it was disclosed that Jason Momoa had discussions about playing Drax and even tried out for the part alongside Chris Pratt. However, he ultimately decided to decline the opportunity.

The actor from “Game of Thrones” clarified to Zap2It that the role didn’t align with his current time because he often plays characters who are silent, heavily made-up, and shirtless. He wasn’t implying the part was bad; it simply wasn’t suitable. He had previously portrayed a similar character on “Stargate: Atlantis” named Ronon for four years. He felt that he had already explored this type of role extensively, regardless of whether people have seen it or not. He expressed a desire to explore new opportunities and stretch his acting abilities.

Marvel eventually found their ideal Drax in professional wrestler Dave Bautista, but he confessed to feeling apprehensive during the audition phase. In an interview with Wired, Bautista explained, “With each callback, it grew increasingly nerve-racking and felt more authentic.

Feige explained that Bautista landed the MMA fighter role due to his exceptional on-screen chemistry and improvisation skills during their auditions with Pratt.

landing a place on the Guardians of the Galaxy’s unconventional team was a long-cherished dream for him, as Bautista shared with Hero Complex, “I still can’t believe I landed this job. It was something I desired more than anything else in my life. When I got it, I broke down and cried like a baby.

Hey, to spend five hours in make-up every day, you gotta love what you do!

Has there ever been a more exciting casting confirmation than when Karen Gillan, at Comic-Con in 2013, unveiled her shaved head, thereby confirming that she was joining the cast of Guardians of the Galaxy as Nebula – one of the film’s primary antagonists and the sister of Gamora?

Previously well-loved in the genre during her stint on Doctor Who, Gillan recounted to W Magazine, “During the audition for Guardians of the Galaxy, they asked if I was open to shaving my head, and the prospect seemed intriguing as it was an exciting project. I was ready for this transformation since I had always been known for my long red hair that was a distinctive trait for me.

Initially, I was slated for a premature demise in the first Guardians of the Galaxy film. However, it turned out to be quite the pleasant surprise when I was invited back and given a role as part of the team in the sequel. Frankly, I had not anticipated this turn of events at all, but it ended up being an incredible experience that I’m grateful for.

Nebula played an essential part, managing to survive her adoptive father Thanos’ well-known snap of his fingers. By the end of Infinity War, she was left standing alongside Tony Stark all by themselves.

James Dunn referred to Pom Klementieff as “the most fantastic and effortlessly charming individual I’ve ever worked with,” after she joined the series in Vol. 2 as Mantis, a unique member of the team who has the ability to manipulate others’ feelings.

“She blew me away,” he continued. “She’s amazing, and I can’t wait to share her with the world.”

In a statement about the casting process, Gunn shared that Marvel auditioned numerous actresses for this role. Four actresses were put through screen tests, each of them delivering exceptional performances. However, Pom Klementieff stood out as the most fitting due to her remarkable ability to convey strong emotions – a crucial aspect of the character. In essence, empathy is her unique power, making her perfect for the part.

Enthusiastically passionate about the initial film, the French actor openly shared that she was quite nervous during her tryouts, using the colloquial phrase, “I was really excited to the point of being scared.

Back in 2012, I was absolutely ecstatic when one of my all-time favorite actors, none other than Paul Rudd, snagged the part as Marvel’s miniature superhero! The web just couldn’t contain its joy over this casting choice!

We experienced immense relief since choosing the perfect actor is crucial for every Marvel Studios movie. From the start, we believed Paul was the ideal candidate. Not only did he accept the role, but his eagerness to contribute surpassed any actor we’ve ever spoken to, confirming that we had indeed found the perfect fit.

According to Variety’s report prior to Rudd being cast, another serious contender for the role was none other than Joseph Gordon-Levitt.

Previously well-liked due to her roles as Kate in ABC’s “Lost” and Tauriel in “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug”, Evangeline Lilly was chosen to portray Hope van Dyne in “Ant-Man”. In the movie’s finale, she delivered a significant line, saying, “It’s high time for that!

In 2017, Evangeline Lilly made history by starring as the leading character in Marvel Cinematic Universe’s “Ant-Man and The Wasp.” Essentially, it was Hope who assumed the main role, as she officially inherited the Wasp identity from her mother.

Lilly shared with ESPN that there were numerous female romantic partners, a common theme in the initial comics. It’s thrilling for her to collaborate with Marvel now, as they provide these roles to women, making them genuine characters.

However, Lilly isn’t particularly enthusiastic about a solo Wasp film, preferring Scott and Hope to work together. She expressed this viewpoint by stating, “I don’t particularly care for the idea of separating them—unless there was a female-led Avengers movie…in that case, I’m on board!” I agree with her sentiments!

As a die-hard fan, I’ve been buzzing with excitement ever since Lilly’s casting was announced! Before her, there were whispers that Emma Stone and Rashida Jones had a sit-down with Marvel about the part. And get this – Jessica Chastain was even rumored to have declined the role due to some tricky scheduling issues! Can’t wait to see Lilly bring the character to life!

There was quite a stir online when news broke that Benedict Cumberbatch, famed for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes in “Sherlock”, was allegedly the leading contender to take on the role of Doctor Strange, considered Marvel’s most daring solo film. Regrettably, scheduling issues initially made this collaboration impossible. In an interview with Empire, Cumberbatch himself admitted, “I truly believed I had to say farewell to it.

Introduce: Joaquin Phoenix, another unconventional yet esteemed potential candidate. However, discussions between this Academy Award recipient and Marvel never materialized, with Phoenix later hinting, “I appreciate those films occasionally, and I believe they help sustain the film industry in certain aspects…I’m attempting to phrase this as delicately as possible…I think everyone was content with how things unfolded.” (Perhaps Phoenix was a DC Comics enthusiast all along, given that he won an Oscar for his portrayal of the Joker in 2020.)

Following discussions with several individuals (supposedly including Tom Hardy and Jared Leto), director Scott Derrickson successfully persuaded Marvel Studios to delay production in order to obtain their top pick for the prestigious role of the doctor-turned-sorcerer.

In simpler terms, Derrickson expressed that Benedict was an excellent choice for Doctor Strange due to his blend of academic knowledge and intelligence, which makes him convincing as a top neurosurgeon. He praised Benedict’s versatility as an actor, stating that he could portray the character’s emotional journey, from pain and suffering to anger and enlightenment. Derrickson felt that not many actors could handle such a range, but Benedict can. He also mentioned that Benedict, like Harrison Ford, has the knack for delivering emotions even during action scenes, making him captivating to watch.

2025-03-27 00:56

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