Vanessa Kirby Is Pregnant, Debuts Baby Bump at Fantastic Four Event

by

Vanessa Kirby has some fantastic news.

The actress announced that she’s expecting her first child at the age of 37. She shared this news while posing on the red carpet at a panel discussion for “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” during the CCXPMX Film Festival in Mexico City, May 31. She gently showed off her baby bump in a stunning, high-necked, sleeveless teal dress by Schiaparelli.

In the Marvel franchise’s second reboot, the British actress portraying Sue Storm, also known as the Invisible Woman, was accompanied by her costars: Pedro Pascal playing Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic, Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm/Human Torch, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach in the role of Ben Grimm/The Thing.

In the brief promotional video, shared on Marvel’s Instagram account on June 1, the actress tenderly holds her baby bump while clad in a black dress, alongside her three co-stars, who were all filmed in Mexico City.

TopMob News has reached out to the Crown alum’s rep for further comment and has not heard back.

For over two years now, Vanessa has been in a romantic connection with the former lacrosse star, Paul Rabil. In the year 2023, he confirmed their relationship publicly on Instagram by posting pictures of them – Paul carrying Vanessa on his shoulders, hugging at a sandy beach, and embracing during a night out, among others. Additionally, he published a heartfelt tribute dedicated to his significant other.

In her Instagram post from April, Vanessa expressed gratitude for the peaceful getaway that allowed her to pause and cherish those she holds dear, accompanied by images from their journey, including one of herself and Paul relaxing on a patio couch. She also acknowledged @fsnevis for making them feel at home and welcoming them into such a unique and memorable location.

In the upcoming movie “The Fantastic Four: First Steps,” you’ll have an opportunity to see Vanessa and her fellow actors on the big screen starting July 25th. Until then, take a look at how Marvel chooses their superheroes for their films…

Since our very first encounter in Des Moines, and traveling as far as the world’s circumference, the athlete penned in November of that same year, ‘Life has become richer, more meaningful, and more stunning with your presence.’

The two recently vacationed together in Saint Kitts and Nevis in the Caribbean.

In April, Vanessa shared on Instagram: “Taking a moment to cherish the people I hold dearest during this lovely getaway,” accompanied by images from their journey, including one of her and Paul relaxing on a patio couch. She expressed gratitude to @fsnevis for making them feel at home and hosting them in such a unique location.

On July 25, you’ll have a chance to see Vanessa and her fellow actors in “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” at cinemas. In the meantime, discover how Marvel selected its superheroes for their movies!

Known primarily for his role as Jung in the popular Canadian sitcom “Kim’s Convenience”, Simu Liu once donned the Spider-Man suit for kids’ birthday parties during his early acting days. Unbeknownst to him, he would later become a part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, taking on the character Shang-Chi. This revelation was made at San Diego Comic-Con 2019. However, it’s possible that he may have had an inkling about this, as the 32-year-old actor had tweeted the previous year, “Alright @Marvel, ready to chat or not #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 found myself still in my pajamas, munching on shrimp crackers. My dog was peacefully sleeping in our apartment. Suddenly, my phone rang with an unfamiliar number from Burbank, California. The moment I heard the rich, resonant voice of Kevin Feige on the line, he shared news that would forever alter the course of my life. That memory still stands out vividly.

Feige, the head of Marvel Studios, disclosed to Rotten Tomatoes that a multitude of actors were initially under consideration for the part. However, Liu emerged as a strong contender towards the end of the selection process, ultimately impressing everyone who saw his audition.

Feige stated, “He’s the genuine article. Introducing a new Marvel character isn’t simple, and there’s always a great deal of expectation, both on our team and likely the actors. However, Simu has managed to deliver in an impressive manner, and I can’t wait for everyone to witness it in September.

The individual who kick-started everything…initially wasn’t Marvel’s first choice for the role of Tony Stark, a part now synonymous with Robert Downey Jr.. Director Jon Favreau, however, persistently pursued Downey, disregarding his past struggles that included incarcerations and rehabilitation.

In an interview with USA Today, director Jon Favreau pointed out the similarities between Robert Downey Jr. and his iconic character Tony Stark. He noted that Robert wasn’t content with just playing a safe role. Instead, he had to confront challenges that extended beyond his career, drawing upon personal experiences that were already in the public eye. This depth that Robert brings to the character goes beyond the typical struggles of a comic book hero like dealing with high school troubles or romantic woes.

In his commitment, Downey carefully reviewed his lines, suggesting improvements and requesting multiple retakes to ensure a scene was perfect. He admitted, “I’m more dedicated than I used to be now. I want to prove to Jon that he was right to trust me. Any doubts about my past didn’t trouble him in the least.

The gamble proved immensely profitable, culminating in the creation of the most successful franchise globally, thereby catapulting Downey to become one of Hollywood’s most coveted (and best compensated) actors, marking a remarkable resurgence in his career.

Kevin Feige, Marvel boss, couldn’t help but praise Robert Downey Jr., saying “He’s exceptionally skilled, he’s an outstanding actor, and he has a unique charm and presence that we believed could be utilized brilliantly.” He continued, “We recognized his acting abilities and his incredible charisma. He brought Tony Stark to life in a way that was more than remarkable. In truth, the Marvel Cinematic Universe wouldn’t be here without Robert Downey Jr.

As a lifestyle expert, I’d like to share an interesting tidbit about the Iron Man franchise. While Jon Favreau had Robert Downey Jr. firmly in mind for the role of Iron Man from the start, there were other talented actors on the shortlist too. Among them were Clive Owen, Timothy Olyphant, and Sam Rockwell. In the end, it was Sam who was cast as one of the main antagonists in Iron Man 2, showcasing his versatility in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Some found it unexpected when Evans, who had previously been associated with the less-than-successful Fantastic Four film at age 29, was chosen by Marvel to play Captain America in 2011’s The First Avenger and the central emotional figure for their entire Phase 1 series. However, the decision was not a simple one.

Recalling to Vanity Fair, Feige admitted that choosing Captain America proved challenging. Thoughts swirled through his mind: “Could we really not find Captain America? What would become of the Avengers if we couldn’t? Would the entire project crumble apart?” However, after initially overlooking Chris Evans due to his role as Johnny Storm in the Fantastic Four franchise, they eventually gave him a chance. Inviting him in and presenting the artwork and plot details, Evans took a weekend to consider before accepting the role.

In Feige’s words, “Chris Evans has portrayed Captain America with a depth and authenticity equal to any actor who has taken on such an iconic pop-culture character. For me, Christopher Reeve as Superman serves as the benchmark, and I believe Evans is just as exceptional. It’s hard for me to imagine anyone else.

Initially, Evans expressed apprehension about accepting the role and declined it multiple times before finally agreeing. During an interview with Jimmy Kimmel, he confessed that the overwhelming number of films he’d be committed to and his social awkwardness within the entertainment industry were significant contributing factors for his hesitation.

In a very Cap fashion, he eventually came around with these words: “I was actually saying no due to fear,” Evans admitted. “You shouldn’t do anything out of fear. You can’t be doing something because you’re afraid. It eventually struck me that if you’re scared of something, you should face it head-on.

It’s said that some well-known figures were in the running for the role of Cap. Names like Channing Tatum, Garrett Hedlund, Scott Porter, Chace Crawford, and even Dane Cook were reportedly considered for it!

In 2010, the comedian confided to MTV that they were going to meet with “Captain America,” which was quite exciting. After Superman, Captain America was their preferred superhero. (A piece of advice? Don’t express a preference for a DC superhero when trying to secure a role in a Marvel movie!)

John Krasinski shared about his journey that took him to the point where he got to try on the costume during the audition process.

In his mind, he secured the role. It was significant for him…when they requested him to try out, they even permitted him to wear the suit, which made it even more special, as he found himself on a film set,” The Office fan favorite shared on Conan. “It was quite intriguing.

Similar to numerous predecessors who donned the mantle of superheroes prior to her, Brie Larson, a recipient of the prestigious Oscar for her remarkable debut in the film Room, initially hesitated about assuming such an emblematic role, which is famously known as the most powerful figure within the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

She confessed to The Hollywood Reporter that she initially hesitated to meet because she felt unsure if she could handle the attention that comes with a movie like that. She admitted, “I’m too much of an introvert, and I worried I would just crumble under the pressure.” However, as they discussed the film with her, she realized it was an opportunity she couldn’t resist, stating, “Ah, this seems to be the culmination of many things I’ve aspired for.

For Feige, Larson was the perfect choice.

To create an engaging storyline with Captain Marvel, who possesses extraordinary powers beyond anything we’ve seen in our movies so far, it’s essential to pair her with another character who feels authentic and relatable to the audience. This character should develop a connection with viewers that allows them to empathize with her as she soars through the sun and dislodges the moon from a spaceship. However, at the same time, this character must also have human flaws and vulnerabilities that make her easy to identify with. Brie is someone you’ll want to join on this adventure.

Following missed opportunities to feature Emily Blunt in two earlier roles (details coming up), it’s said that Marvel sought to bring the star of “Mary Poppins Returns” into their superhero team, considering her for the role of half-human, half-Kree character, Carol Danvers.

When asked about the rumors, Blunt expressed that her focus has always been on what she contributes (what she puts out there) and what would captivate both herself and the audience. So, whether it’s a significant role in a Marvel film or a minor part in a small production, if it’s an interesting project, she is open to it.

It is said that other potential nominees, apart from Yvonne Strahovski from The Handmaid’s Tale and Katheryn Winnick, were also in the running.

It was one of Marvel’s most straightforward casting decisions, as revealed by Feige in an interview. Chadwick Boseman, who gained recognition and acclaim for his roles as the historic figure Jackie Robinson in the film 42 and the iconic musician James Brown in Get On Up, was chosen to play the future ruler of Wakanda.

At a table, we brainstormed the plot for Captain America: Civil War. Nate Moore, our executive producer, proposed incorporating Black Panther since we sought an impartial party who wouldn’t align with Captain America or Iron Man. As soon as he suggested Chadwick, we all agreed. In my recollection, though it might have been the following day, we immediately contacted him on a conference call.

In a straightforward manner, there were no auditions or major negotiations involved. Instead, a simple phone call was made to Chadwick Boseman who happened to be in Zurich promoting “Get On Up”. Feige stated that he felt Boseman was the sole suitable candidate for the role.

Stepping back, I can’t help but marvel at the groundbreaking achievement that was “Black Panther.” This cinematic masterpiece marked history as it became the first superhero film to earn a Best Picture Oscar nomination. Not only did it make headlines by being the initial Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) production to secure any—and I mean any—Academy Awards, but it went above and beyond with an impressive three wins! It’s also among the all-time highest-grossing movies, a testament to its universal appeal. As we cheer for Wakanda, let’s raise our fists in admiration for this remarkable milestone.

Back in August 2020, I tragically lost my beloved hero, Chadwick Boseman, at just 43 years old. After a quiet, four-year struggle with colon cancer, he left us far too soon. Upon hearing the heartbreaking news of his passing, Marvel made a decision that touched every fan – they chose not to recast the iconic role of T’Challa in Black Panther 2.

Initially, Chris Hemsworth wasn’t widely recognized, but he managed to secure the highly desired part as the Nordic deity. Interestingly enough, it was his younger brother, Liam Hemsworth, who nearly clinched the role instead.

In an earlier stage of the process, Chris had an audition that didn’t turn out as expected. Meanwhile, his younger brother also auditioned and came close to getting the role. However, since he was deemed too young for the part, the casting call was reopened again.

He added, “I felt quite enraged when it seemed like he might secure the role, so I returned with renewed anger. In the end, I even had to reach out to him for advice, which he graciously provided – and as a result, I landed the part myself. So that particular audition turned into a collaborative family affair, fueled by sibling rivalry!

According to a report from Deadline, the initial decision by the casting director was not to include Chris (age 25 at the time), but later he was given another chance and recorded a video audition. Immediately after watching it, Feige and director Kenneth Branagh made their final approval.

Besides the Hemsworth brothers, there were other contenders for the role at one point, such as Daniel Craig, famous for playing James Bond; Kevin McKidd, a star on Grey’s Anatomy; and Triple-H from WWE. Additionally, lesser-known actors like Charlie Hunnam (before Sons of Anarchy), Joel Kinnaman, and Alexander Skarsgaard were also in the running. Interestingly, Stellan Skarsgard, who later played Dr. Erik Selvig in the film, is the father of Alexander Skarsgaard.

Following his unsuccessful audition for the role, Alexander Skarsgaard confirmed to MTV, “Indeed, I had a couple of meetings with Kevin [Feige], and also the director [Kenneth Branagh]. There was, in fact, some basis to those discussions, yes.

Prior to portraying the once-antagonistic character Loki, Thor’s trickster brother, Tom Hiddleston was seriously considered for the lead role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

During my very first visit to Los Angeles as an actor, I was cast for the role of Thor. This came about after an agent signed me based on a Shakespeare play I performed in London. They said, “Come to LA and we’ll show you around.” I auditioned for numerous roles, including Thor, which was a possibility because I had previous experience working with Kenneth Branagh from theatre productions.

Despite feeling “proud” about the audition, and eventually receiving a call-back following requests for him to bulk up (achieving an impressive 7% body fat level!), the outcome wasn’t quite as he had originally anticipated.

Tom Hiddleston shared that both Kevin and Keith reached out to him directly, expressing that instead of playing Thor, they wanted him to portray Loki. Essentially, it turned out to be a fortunate turn of events, as Hiddleston has never harbored any regrets about not being cast as Thor. In fact, he’s never once wished he was playing the role of Thor.

He “rarely” imagined what the audience reaction might be towards the character, conceding, “The ideal situation was my expectation—yet it likely surpassed anything I could ever have envisioned.

Following Natalie Portman’s departure from the series, Tessa Thompson stepped into the role of Thor: Ragnarok’s new female lead, portraying the comics character Valkyrie. However, unlike a typical love interest for Thor, Thompson’s character was not limited to this stereotype. This was an aspect director Taika Waititi emphasized when he first approached Thompson for the role, later revealed to be the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s inaugural bisexual hero.

Initially, Taika and I had numerous discussions about [the role] since you can never tell. Initially, there were speculations, particularly in the media, suggesting she could be a romantic interest. However, we wanted to create a character who was independent and self-driven. From the beginning, Marvel and Taika were determined for Valkyrie to stand on her own ground and bring something fresh and innovative. I believe they made an intelligent decision by catering to many fans’ demands for more powerful female characters who aren’t solely linked to male characters.

Following the announcement of Thompson’s role, there was some criticism due to the character being depicted as white and blonde in the original comics. However, in an interview with Comic Book Resources, Waititi justified this casting choice.

From the beginning, our aim was to vary the cast members, but it can be challenging when dealing with Vikings. The goal is to be more inclusive and offer a wider range of representation. At this stage, you need to view the original source as a flexible guide. Then, trust your instincts. For instance, you might think, “None of that really matters.” Just because the character was blonde and white in the original story, it doesn’t define who they are.

He went on to say, “People tend to overlook this point. Die-hard followers might argue, ‘It’s not truly in line with the comics,’ but once they watch the movie, immerse themselves in the narrative, and witness the unfolding events, everyone seems to forget. It’s absurd that we need to keep revisiting this topic since we all tend to forget. Unless the film revolves around it, why should it matter? I believe the story is supreme, and we aim for the most skilled individual for the role. We cast a wide net, and Tess was the most capable.

Following Marvel’s acquisition of Spidey from Sony and with Andrew Garfield no longer in contention, a number of promising young actors found themselves vying for the sought-after part, including Timothée Chalamet, currently a heartthrob on the internet.

Among the potential candidates vying for the role, I found myself in the company of Charlie Rowe, Charlie Plummer, Asa Butterfield, Matthew Lintz, and Dylan O’Brien. However, it wasn’t until Marvel introduced an almost unheard-of name, Tom Holland, in 2015, that I realized the extraordinary talent they had discovered. When we were all called to test with Downey for “Civil War,” which paved the way for the standalone Spider-Man film, Robert Downey Jr. himself remarked, “Everyone else was impressive, but there was an additional something [in Holland].

In a press statement, Tom Rothman, chairman of Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group, expressed that he has collaborated with several rising stars who eventually became household names, and he believes that Tom possesses exceptional talent in the same vein. Regarding Spider-Man, various talented young actors were considered, but Tom’s audition tapes stood out uniquely. In summary, things are off to a great start with this choice.

Indeed, the choice of Tom Holland as Spider-Man was spot on, earning acclaim with critics hailing him as “the greatest cinematic Spider-Man” following the 2017 debut of Spider-Man: Homecoming. (Apologies to Tobey Maguire and Andrew!)

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

To begin with, Eric Bana portrayed the grumpy green monster in the 2003 movie “Hulk”. Unfortunately, this film didn’t fare well either in terms of critical reception or box office success. As a result, Marvel Studios opted to re-introduce the character, with Edward Norton stepping into the role for the 2008 film titled “The Incredible Hulk”.

The movie performed satisfactorily, yet it appeared that Edward Norton wasn’t fond of Marvel Cinematic Universe’s demanding shooting and publicity commitments (as well as rumors of artistic disagreements) during the production process.

Marvel announced that they will not be casting Ed Norton to reprise his role as Bruce Banner/The Hulk in “The Avengers,” stating their decision is not financially driven, but rather seeks an actor who mirrors the creativity and collaborative spirit of the rest of the talented cast. The production of “The Avengers” is set to commence soon, and they are looking for actors who excel at working as part of a team.

Stepping into the spotlight here as a lifestyle guide, I must address a recent stir in the entertainment world. To set the record straight, I’ve learned that Norton’s team has taken offense and labeled certain remarks as unkind and petty. They’ve flatly denied these allegations, stating it was a financial decision from Marvel’s end, not a personal one.

It turned out to be a fortunate decision for Marvel when they selected Mark Ruffalo for the role, as it became apparent that the Hulk character was more effective within an ensemble rather than solo films. During a press conference, Feige stated, “Mark Ruffalo’s portrayal of the Hulk has set many things right and made us all extremely content.

[The Hulk, as portrayed by Ruffalo], is often compared to the iconic character of Hamlet from my generation. Everyone will have a chance to play their part before it’s finished, Ruffalo humorously remarked in an interview with Vanity Fair.

Prior to Scarlett Johansson assuming the part of the initial female Avenger and her introduction as 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 scheduled to take on the role. Unfortunately, conflicts with the 2010 flop “Gulliver’s Travels” at the box office disrupted her plans (I’ll never forget, I’ll never forgive!).

As an ardent supporter, I had eagerly advocated for Scarlett Johansson’s role as Black Widow before her official casting. In fact, I, Eliza Dushku, passionately argued on The Howard Stern Show that I was the ideal candidate for the character, expressing my belief that they simply needed to explore this possibility further. Unfortunately, it seems my suggestion fell on deaf ears.

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

A little over a year before filming began, I sat down with Jon Feige (Kevin’s counterpart) and Jon for a chat about certain Marvel heroines. One of them was Black Widow. It seemed they were considering incorporating her into the movie, and we discussed various aspects of how to make it happen.

When I met Jon again the second time, I had dyed my hair red. Part of that decision was me wanting to try a new hair color, but another part was hoping that Jon would appreciate my attempt at change.

Fans didn’t truly become familiar with Natasha (or Black Widow) until “The Avengers”, despite director Joss Whedon’s initial concerns about scheduling issues that might have kept Scarlett Johansson from reprising her role in the 2012 team-up film.

Due to the timing constraints of our production schedule, there was a point where we weren’t certain if Scarlett would be available. However, my joy knew no bounds when she agreed to join the project as her presence significantly enhances the film and provides an intriguing contrast to her male co-stars. In reality, Scarlett is quite unlike her character, being hilarious, charming, and adorable. I deliberately cast her to portray a character that was the polar opposite of her personality, as we wanted Black Widow to be a more sinister version of her role in Iron Man 2. This film offers glimpses into her past, which is rather grim. One of Scarlett’s strengths is her ability to meticulously craft and embody her characters, making her an ideal choice for the development of Black Widow.

At long last, the standalone film for Johansson as Black Widow will premiere in cinemas in July 2021, having been postponed because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Following his outstanding portrayal in the movie “The Hurt Locker”, it wasn’t until much later that Jeremy Renner was officially chosen to play the character of S.H.I.E.L.D. agent Clint Barton, despite initially dismissing such speculation for months.

In a conversation with Empire, Jeremy Renner hinted that Hawkeye could be intriguing. He mentioned receiving additional information about it, to see what exactly it involves. Regarding the project, he expressed his admiration for the team’s efforts to make superhero films feel more grounded and relatable, rather than just another fantasy tale.

In 2011, Jeremy Renner debuted in a small, unacknowledged role in Thor, and it was in 2012’s The Avengers that his character Hawkeye was properly introduced. However, the actor expressed dissatisfaction with the development of his human character later on.

In his conversation with the LA Times, he expressed that by the movie’s end, only 10% of the role he initially agreed to portray felt accurate. He stated that his screen time was minimal, around two minutes, and then things took a surprising turn. As a result, there isn’t much background or clarity about the character Clint Barton (also known as Hawkeye), whether he is working for S.H.I.E.L.D., or if there are still many unanswered questions, even for him.

He further commented, “It’s at least reassuring that I was part of the film,” he remarked. “I was relieved for that…there are many actors in that movie. Many key characters. And my role, I believed, if it could contribute to the story, then I had fulfilled my purpose.

In the following installment, Whedon expanded Hawkeye’s character, introducing the unexpected fact that Clint was married with children. Joss Whedon shared on Tumblr, “I adored the concept that one superhero concealed a secret, and it was that he was an ordinary man who had genuine ties to the world in a manner no other superhero does.” He chose to eliminate much of the suspenseful foreshadowing that would have heightened the surprise, but the emotional and thematic aspects remain compelling to me.

Approaching “The Avengers: Endgame” after Renner’s absence in “Infinity War”, fans eagerly anticipated the portrayal of Hawkeye’s dark transition into the character of Ronin, as seen in the comics.

In an interview, Renner shared that he’s excited about the remarkable activities he’s undertaking with this particular character. I believe fans will be thrilled when they discover the outcome.

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

In an open confession to Business Insider, comic book writer Mark Millar acknowledged that he and artist Bryan Hitch casually incorporated Sam into their work without seeking any form of permission. It’s important to note that this happened in 2001, a time when the concept of this creation becoming a movie was unthinkable, as Marvel was still struggling to recover from bankruptcy.

In the end, Jackson secured a nine-picture agreement with Marvel, and Nick Fury was strategically used to interconnect many of the superheroes’ narratives. Interestingly, this character, who previously held the position of S.H.I.E.L.D.’s director, made his first appearance in Iron Man‘s closing credits scene, marking the beginning of his role within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. This seemingly minor cameo later developed into a pivotal moment for the entire franchise, despite not initially being the intended purpose.

Jon Favreau shared with EW that he intentionally added Easter eggs in the film as a surprise for fans. He felt the idea of a post-credit scene was enjoyable, and this wasn’t part of the original script. To make it more engaging, he decided to have Nick Fury portrayed by Sam Jackson, as a tribute to the comic book series The Ultimates where Fury was recast as Jackson. Kevin Feige, who was equally excited about the idea, helped with the dialogue creation, carefully selecting words like “a bigger world now, a bigger universe,” and “the Avengers Initiative.” These phrases served as hints for future developments in the storyline. The aim was to group certain characters together, but many factors needed to align for this to occur, so they were merely laying out a mission statement to demonstrate their purpose. They hoped that those who stayed in the theater after the credits would be most appreciative of these subtle hints.

Little did he know Feige has major plans.

In the movie “Captain Marvel,” which is the ninth Marvel film by the way, the filmmakers used digital technology to make Samuel L. Jackson appear about 20 years younger. This allowed him to portray Nick Fury in the mid-’90s, providing a kind of backstory for the character that audiences are familiar with 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 three-way friendship with Sebastian Stan’s character, Bucky, in the movie “Captain America: The Winter Soldier“.

However, during the 2015 Emerald City Comic-Con, it was disclosed that instead of the character initially portrayed, he had previously contacted Marvel with another character in mind.

Mackie stated that at first, he was penning the letters with the aspiration of becoming Black Panther. However, they responded to him later, not about Black Panter, but regarding the character of Falcon, a role he was thrilled to accept instead.

He expressed his satisfaction and happiness, saying, “I enjoy working alongside those individuals every day, much like Falcon standing next to Captain America.” It feels rewarding to be part of an excellent film production with an outstanding team, instead of insisting on always being the main character.

In an interview with Collider, co-director Anthony Russo explained why they chose Anthony Mackie for the role in Captain America: The Winter Soldier. He said, “We were drawn to Anthony Mackie because he has a vibrant energy and a sense of fun. Captain America is in a very challenging emotional and psychological state in this movie; he’s essentially waking up in a modern world where everything he knew is gone, and he’s lost everyone. It’s a deeply emotional place, and we felt that Mackie’s lively energy would be just what was needed to help him form new friendships.

Following the handover of the shield in Endgame, Mackie soared away to team up with Stan for their very own Disney+ series titled Falcon and the Winter Soldier. The storyline culminated in Sam taking over the role of Captain America.

Prior to his portrayal as Cap’s friend-turned-enemy-turned-friend once more, Sebastian Stan initially tried out for the main role instead. In an episode of Vanity Fair’s “Still Watching” podcast, it was revealed that Finn felt there was a certain darkness in Stan that didn’t align perfectly with Steve Rogers.

Back in 2016, I must confess that I was genuinely disappointed when I didn’t land the role of Captain America. The moment I received a call, hearing them say, “You gave a fantastic performance, but this opportunity isn’t for you,” left an indelible mark on me.

Gladly, another call swiftly arrived, with the star of “I, Tonya” expressing, “When they reached out to me once more, hinting at another role I should consider, my enthusiasm spiked since it meant the journey wasn’t finished yet.” And indeed, it wasn’t, as he sealed a 9-movie contract, mirroring Evans.

Oh boy, I can hardly contain my excitement! After all the amazing work he’s done bringing the Marvel Cinematic Universe to life on the big screen, Stan is now stepping into the small screen realm, collaborating with the incredible Anthony Mackie for the Falcon and the Winter Soldier series. This is a dream come true for any fan like me!

In 2011, when Elizabeth Olsen emerged from her renowned older twin sisters’ shadows with her standout role in the independent movie “Martha Marcy May Marlene”, director Joss Whedon recognized her as the ideal actress for his character, a Russian superheroine capable of entering people’s minds and possessing telekinetic powers. This character had undergone experimentation by H.Y.D.R.A. in the movie.

Initially, she wasn’t clear about the specific role she was interviewing for, as she confided in EW, “I had a meeting with Joss, and I was only somewhat familiar with the characters we discussed. Nobody informed me. I simply knew it was related to the upcoming Avengers installment, and they were introducing two fresh characters, and that was the extent of my knowledge.

Prior to Olsen’s casting, there had been a significant buzz suggesting that Saoirse Ronan might take on the role of Scarlet Witch. It was even rumored that Marvel used her as a model during the character’s development phase.

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

Back in 2021, I was utterly captivated as I took my first steps into the small screen Marvel universe with the groundbreaking show, “WandaVision”. At long last, the enigmatic figure of Wanda transformed into the awe-inspiring Scarlet Witch right before my eyes!

Paul Bettany boasts a long-standing association with the Marvel Cinematic Universe, though you might not have realized it. This British thespian lent his voice to JARVIS, Tony Stark’s loyal AI companion in the first Iron Man film that ignited the entire franchise, and this is arguably the most amusing origin story within the MCU.

In an account to GQ, Bettany shared that he received a call from Jon Favreau who said, “I require the voice of a robot lacking distinct personality and you instantly came to mind,” to which Bettany responded with laughter, saying yes.

In an unusual decision for Marvel Studios, they selected Bettany to portray the character of Vision in “The Avengers: Age of Ultron”. This is because JARVIS (who has sadly perished) was merged with a mechanical body and the Mind Stone, resulting in the creation of this superhero.

According to Bettany, there’s a Marvel rule that prevents actors from portraying more than one character within their universe. However, they made an exception for him because Joss Whedon strongly desired to introduce the Vision in the movie world, and he specifically wanted Bettany to play the role.

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

Previously, Bettany humorously remarked that he felt like a pirate grabbing a sack of money at the end of his two-hour shifts, but now, he has to physically appear and work for it.

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

Known for his endearing, dimwitted character Andy Dwyer on NBC’s “Parks and Recreation,” Chris Pratt gained superstardom through his role in Marvel’s “Guardians of the Galaxy.” Beyond his transition from comical sidekick to captivating main actor, Pratt made headlines with a remarkable physical transformation to portray Peter Quill, leading the band of intergalactic misfits.

In an interview with The Huffington Post, Pratt shared that the role felt tailor-made for him from the start. During his initial audition, he believed he had aced it, but harbored concerns about his physical suitability due to his larger size at the time. Despite sensing a match in terms of spirit and voice, he felt he didn’t meet the visual requirements just yet.

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

Nevertheless, Pratt managed to shed a remarkable 60 pounds in just six months, humorously chronicling his journey on Instagram (a post with the caption “Six months no beer. #GOTG – A bit showy to share this, but my brother made me for one gym selfie”). Eventually, he gained countless magazine covers and headlines praising his stunning transformation.

Feige expressed admiration over the unexpected casting news, stating, “In ‘Parks and Rec’, he’s a comically unkempt character, while in ‘Zero Dark Thirty’, he’s impressively muscular. It’s quite amazing, isn’t it? He’ll need that versatility for ‘Guardians’. After all, that’s quite a broad acting range.

As I walked into the audition room unaware of the grand plans Marvel had in store, it turned out that Kevin Feige and his team were already envisioning the future. While we aimed to find the perfect Star-Lord for the movie we were making at that moment, they also kept an eye on potential contenders who could someday stand shoulder to shoulder with Robert Downey Jr. Little did I know that my performance would eventually lead me to do just that in Infinity War.

As an ardent admirer, it’s tough to fathom anyone other than Chris Pratt embodying the charismatic and cool-as-a-cucumber Peter Quill. Yet, Marvel had pondered over a few other talented actors like Eddie Redmayne, Joel Edgerton, Jack Huston, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Lee Pace for the role, ultimately choosing Pace to portray the antagonist Ronan the Accuser. However, it seems that Glenn Howerton from “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” was a strong runner-up to Pratt for this coveted role.

Among all the talented actresses out there, none seems more fitting to portray the deadliest woman in the galaxy and the estranged daughter of Thanos than Zoe Saldana. Her impressive action background, demonstrated in films like Avatar and Star Trek, makes her an ideal candidate for this role.

Instead of considering Computer-Generated Imagery (CGI) for portraying the green assassin, Zaldana chose to undergo daily four-hour makeup sessions.

In an interview with Net-a-Porter, Saldana dismissed any actors who’ve suggested that Marvel stars are compromising by making superhero movies. She argued, “Those who look down on us should consider the impact their words have on a young child. After all, you’re not just criticizing me; you’re belittling what that child values in their world.” Saldana expressed great pride in being part of the Marvel universe, playing extraterrestrial characters, and inspiring the younger generation. She recalled her own childhood feelings of exclusion and how playing these roles helps to include those who feel left out from mainstream society.

Even so, Saldana harbored significant apprehensions prior to formally agreeing, expressing satisfaction that director James Gunn was fully supportive of all her suggestions.

In simpler terms, during an interview with bloggers, she expressed her disappointment about her role in the script. She felt that even though she was expected to be in every scene, she didn’t have any lines. So, she questioned why she should spend six months on set, endure five hours of makeup every day for six days a week, just to be a silent observer in every scene. Furthermore, she found it frustrating that before any break, they would film her close-ups. Essentially, she communicated that this setup wasn’t going to work out for her.

Furthermore, Gamora emerged as an emotional cornerstone within the movie series, significantly contributing, particularly during the events of “Infinity War.

Initially, Saldana was Marvel’s preferred candidate for the 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 on ABC’s “Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.” television series.

Instead of choosing the traditional path as a leading Marvel character, Bradley Cooper opted for a less common approach to playing a superhero.

During my recent chat on the Ellen show, I compared Rocket’s unique voice to a blend of Gilbert Gottfried and Joe Pesci. Initially, I had envisioned a much more serious tone, reminiscent of Daniel Day-Lewis in “There Will Be Blood.

However, it may be unclear to some fans that Cooper isn’t the one wearing the green suit on set as Rocket. Instead, it is Sean Gunn, the sibling of director James Gunn, who portrays him. Additionally, Sean Gunn also plays the role of Kraglin, a Ravagers member.

In simpler terms, “Sean is a stand-in actor for motion reference. This means we record every move Sean makes on set as the character Rocket. James Gunn clarified this on Facebook. He continues to film takes of Sean until the performance is perfect, and then they use that performance as the foundation for most of Rocket’s acting.

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

Without a doubt, one of the most cherished figures in the mammoth MCU series is voiced by an actor renowned from another significant franchise – Fast and Furious’ Vin Diesel. His journey to this role actually started as a joke, as the studio reached out to him about a part following his Facebook post claiming Marvel had “proposed a meeting.

As a lifestyle expert diving into the fascinating world of cinema, I’ve discovered an intriguing tidbit about everyone’s favorite tree-like superhero, Groot. Although his iconic line is simply “I am Groot,” Diesel, the voice behind this character, actually received individual scripts that decoded the meaning and tone for each instance when Groot utters those three words.

James Gunn once shared on Instagram that he and Vin Diesel possess a unique version of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, where all Groot’s lines are written in English, which he referred to as the “Groot Version” of the script.

Even though Groot perished at the end of the first Guardians of the Galaxy movie, only to come back as a small potted plant, Diesel continued providing Baby Groot’s voice.

In his conversation with EW, Gunn explained that only a minimal amount of processing is done on certain characters, and it’s quite negligible. Primarily, it’s Vin’s voice we hear, as he can speak at a pitch significantly higher than his usual tone.

As a dedicated enthusiast, I’d like to share an interesting tidbit about the career journey of Jason Momoa, best known for his role as Aquaman. Prior to diving into that iconic part, Momoa disclosed that he had discussions regarding the character Drax in Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy series. He even participated in auditions alongside Chris Pratt, but ultimately decided to step back from the opportunity. This intriguing piece of information provides a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes decisions that shape our favorite actors’ careers.

As a devoted actor, I shared with Zap2It that the role didn’t quite align with my time because for years I’ve played characters who are more about action than dialogue, often in a physically intense setting with no shirt on. It wasn’t that the part was lacking, it simply wasn’t the best fit. You see, I had already spent four seasons on Stargate: Atlantis portraying a character similar to this one called Ronon, who was an alien and not overly chatty. I wanted something fresh and challenging, to step out of my comfort zone. Whether people have seen my past work or not, I’ve had enough of that experience and crave diversity in my roles.

Marvel eventually discovered their ideal Drax character in professional wrestler Dave Bautista, yet he confessed to feeling apprehensive during the audition phase. As he explained to Wired, “With each callback I received, it grew increasingly nerve-racking and felt more authentic.

I’ve always been smitten by the Marvel universe, and when it came to choosing the perfect MMA warrior for the big screen, Feige hit the nail on the head! He said one of the key factors that sealed Bautista’s fate was the electric chemistry he displayed with Pratt during their banter, ad-libbing, and screen tests. Simply put, they were off-the-charts amazing together!

Landing a place on the unconventional Guardians of the Galaxy team was an actual dream come true for him, as Bautista shared with Hero Complex, “I still can’t believe I landed this job! It’s something I desired more than anything I’ve ever wanted in my life. When I got it, I 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 revelation than when Karen Gillan, appearing at Comic-Con in 2013 with her freshly shaved head, unveiled that she had joined the cast of Guardians of the Galaxy as Nebula, one of the film’s primary antagonists and the sibling of Gamora?

Previously adored in the genre during her tenure on Doctor Who, Gillan later revealed to W Magazine, “During the audition for Guardians of the Galaxy, they asked if I was open to shaving my head. The project sounded intriguing and I was ready for a change. My long red hair had always been a distinctive trait for me.

Initially, it was planned for Nebula to perish in the first Guardians of the Galaxy film; however, later, Gillan expressed surprise and delight when she found out she could reprise her role and be part of the team in the subsequent movie. She admitted that she had not anticipated this turn of events.

Nebula played an essential part and managed to endure her adoptive father Thanos’ well-known snap of his fingers, being the only one left alongside Tony Stark at the conclusion of “Infinity War”.

James Dunn referred to Pom Klementieff as “the most fantastic and effortless individual I’ve ever worked with” when describing her role as Mantis, a new member of the team who possesses the ability to manipulate other people’s feelings, in Vol. 2.

“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 choice, Gunn shared that Marvel auditioned numerous actresses for this specific role, ultimately narrowing it down to four contenders. Each of these actresses delivered outstanding performances, but Pom Klementieff stood out due to her exceptional ability to convey deep emotion, which is crucial for the character’s portrayal. Empathy, in a sense, can be considered her superpower.

Overwhelmed by her love for the initial film, the French actress openly confessed that she was quite anxious during her audition process.

In 2012, it was announced that one of Hollywood’s favorite actors, Paul Rudd, snagged the part of Marvel’s diminutive superhero, bringing immense joy to many online.

We experienced great relief since discovering the ideal actor is crucial for making a Marvel Studios film. From the start, we believed Paul was the right choice. Not only did he accept the role, but his eagerness to contribute was unmatched by any other actor we’ve encountered. We knew then that we’d found our man.

According to Variety’s report, prior to Rudd being cast, another serious contender for the role was Joseph Gordon-Levitt.

Previously popular for her roles as Kate on ABC’s Lost and Tauriel in The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, Evangeline Lilly was chosen to portray Hope van Dyne in Ant-Man. At the movie’s conclusion, she delivered the significant line, “Long overdue.

In 2017, Evangeline Lilly made history by starring as the main character in “Ant-Man and The Wasp,” marking the first time a woman headlined a Marvel Cinematic Universe film. Her character, Hope, officially assumed the role of the Wasp, succeeding her mother.

Lilly shared with ESPN that there were numerous female companions in the original comics, a common theme. She is thrilled about her collaboration with Marvel, as they are granting women these roles where they are fully developed characters.

Lilly isn’t particularly keen on a solo Wasp film, as she feels that Scott and Hope work best as a team. She added, “I don’t really like the idea of separating them – unless there was a female-led Avengers film…then I’d be on board.” I agree!

Before Lilly’s selection, there were whispers suggesting that both Emma Stone and Rashida Jones had meetings with Marvel about the part, whereas Jessica Chastain is said to have declined due to calendar clashes.

Nearly causing a frenzy on the web, whispers circulated that Benedict Cumberbatch, adored for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes in ‘Sherlock’, was tipped as the leading contender to embody Doctor Strange, Marvel’s most daring solo venture. Regrettably, scheduling complications initially made it impossible for this to materialize. In an interview with Empire, Cumberbatch expressed his disappointment, saying, “I truly believed I had to let it go.

Instead of: “Enter: Joaquin Phoenix, another unusual but prestige choice. But, for whatever reason, nothing ever came of the talks between the Oscar winner and Marvel,” you could rephrase it as: “It was discussed that Joaquin Phoenix, an unconventional yet esteemed actor, might join Marvel. However, these discussions didn’t lead to any concrete outcomes. Phoenix later hinted at his feelings about Marvel movies by saying, ‘I appreciate those films sometimes, and I believe they help sustain the film industry in certain ways, so I don’t have any issues with it whatsoever…I’m trying to find a diplomatic way to put this…I think everyone was satisfied with how things ended up.’ (It may also be that Phoenix has been a fan of DC Comics all along, as he won an Oscar for portraying the Joker in 2020.)

After conferring with several individuals (apparently including Tom Hardy and Jared Leto), director Scott Derrickson successfully persuaded Marvel Studios to delay production so they could cast their top pick for the famed doctor-turned-sorcerer role.

As a lifestyle expert, I wholeheartedly agree with Derrickson’s sentiments about Benedict being an ideal choice for Doctor Strange. His unique blend of academic prowess and profound acting talent truly sets him apart. In my opinion, he could easily excel as a top-tier neurosurgeon in real life due to his exceptional intellect.

In terms of his acting abilities, Benedict possesses both the intelligence and emotional depth required for the role. The character undergoes a significant emotional journey, marked by pain, suffering, disorientation, anger, and ultimately enlightenment. I believe that few actors can capture all these nuances as effectively as Benedict does.

During this challenging process, the actor must convincingly portray an arrogant neurosurgeon while maintaining audience engagement. Benedict’s versatility makes him a suitable candidate for such a demanding role. Furthermore, much like Harrison Ford, Benedict has the ability to elicit strong emotions from viewers even in high-action scenes. Regardless of what he is doing on screen, you can’t help but feel what he conveys, making him an exceptional action star.

Read More

2025-06-02 03:20