Essential Insights
- Performers may decline roles for a multitude of reasons.
- Scheduling conflicts often lead actors to withdraw from potential roles.
- Personal issues can also motivate an actor’s decision to turn down a part.
The Marvel Cinematic Universe represents a continually evolving franchise, encompassing an array of films, television series, and other media all attempting to weave a singular epic narrative. As Marvel’s fame and financial backing proliferate, a number of prominent actors find themselves caught in its expansive universe.
Yet, in the sprawling realm of cinema, the stars don’t always align, even with Marvel’s vast resources at their disposal. Financial considerations are merely one of several factors that can compel actors to refuse a role in the MCU. Below, discover notable actors who, for various reasons, have not yet made their mark in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, despite receiving offers.
7 Jason Momoa
Role: Drax in Guardians of the Galaxy
- Prominent Roles: Khal Drogo (Game of Thrones), Arthur Curry (Aquaman, Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, Justice League), Duncan Idaho (Dune: Part One)
Before achieving significant fame as Aquaman, Jason Momoa was a well-known figure on television. He starred in series like Game of Thrones and featured in films such as Conan the Barbarian, where he portrayed the lead character. Years prior to his Aquaman debut in 2018, Momoa was offered the chance to take on the role of Drax the Destroyer.
Ultimately, he chose to turn down the opportunity, expressing concerns that it would typecast him. He drew parallels to his previous role as Ronon Dex from Stargate Atlantis, indicating he desired a creative break to focus on his directorial efforts with Road to Paloma (2014). Consequently, the role of Drax was awarded to Dave Bautista—a decision Momoa fully supported.
6 Amanda Seyfried
Role: Gamora in Guardians of the Galaxy
- Key Roles: Cosette (Les Misérables), Karen Smith (Mean Girls), Sophie (Mamma Mia!)
Amanda Seyfried is widely recognized for her performances in memorable films like Mean Girls (2003) and Mamma Mia (2008). She also starred in the cult hit Jennifer’s Body (2009), which featured a cameo by Chris Pratt, who would eventually portray Star Lord. Seyfried was offered the part of Gamora—a surprising proposition since she is not often linked to action roles similar to that of Gamora.
However, Seyfried’s reasons for declining the role were not related to typecasting. Her concerns revolved around the extensive makeup required for the character and doubts regarding the potential success of Guardians of the Galaxy (2014), believing a poor reception might adversely impact her career. Ultimately, Zoe Saldaña was cast as Gamora, humorously noting her excitement about playing a green character after previously being blue in Avatar (2009). Guardians of the Galaxy, of course, became a massive box office success, along with its subsequent sequels.
5 David Cross
Role: Tobias Funke in Avengers: Infinity War
- Recognized Roles: Tobias Funke (Arrested Development), Crane (Kung Fu Panda), David (Mr. Show With Bob and David), Ian Hawke (Alvin and the Chipmunks)
Not all declined roles have to be major ones. Sometimes, logistical issues can lead to even well-known actors missing out on brief appearances. David Cross‘s absence from Infinity War serves as a perfect illustration. Cross is predominantly a comedic talent, famously known for his portrayal of Tobias Funke in the beloved series Arrested Development.
The Russo Brothers sought Cross not for a new Marvel character, but rather to cameo as Tobias Funke in The Collector’s Museum. Although the directors reached out to him, the time-sensitive nature of the request collided with his commitments to direct another project in a different country, ultimately preventing him from appearing in the film.
Interestingly, while Cross’s portrayal of Funke didn’t make it into the film, a brief reference to the character appeared wherein he was represented by an extra, adorned in blue paint reminiscent of the Arrested Development episode “The One Where Michael Leaves.”Ironically, Cross has made a cameo appearance in another Marvel-related franchise, featuring in both Men in Black (1997) and its sequel Men in Black 2 (2002) — both adaptations based on a comic miniseries owned by Marvel.
4 Miriam Margoyles
An Undisclosed Role in Agatha All Along
- Notable Roles: Professor Sprout (Harry Potter series)
Miriam Margoyles is a distinguished British-Australian actress, celebrated for her portrayal of Professor Sprout in the Harry Potter films. Her extensive filmography also includes appearances in titles like Rime of the Ancient Mariner (1969) and The Age of Innocence (1993). Currently active, she can be seen in the latest season of Doctor Who. Recently, she received an offer to participate in Agatha All Along, the new Marvel series that premiered last month.
Margoyles cited several reasons for her decision to decline the role. Her previous experience as Professor Sprout left her skeptical about taking on more roles in “witch-themed shows,” and she expressed a strong reluctance to shoot in Atlanta for four months. Furthermore, in an interview with The Wrap, she revealed that she would have accepted the role for “a million pounds”but turned it down after only being offered half the amount. The renowned actress openly admitted that her decision was rooted in personal greed rather than any other reason. As the specifics of the offered role remain undisclosed, it is difficult to ascertain how it would have integrated into the storyline of Agatha All Along.
3 Daniel Craig
Thor Odinson in Thor
- Prominent Roles: James Bond (Casino Royale, Quantum of Solace, Skyfall, Spectre, No Time To Die), Benoit Blanc (Knives Out), XXXX (Layer Cake), Connor Rooney (Road to Perdition)
Daniel Craig is most renowned for his role as the iconic James Bond in the recent franchise iterations. He also appeared in diverse films including Logan Lucky (2017) and his more recent series project, Knives Out (2019). In addition to his spy gadgets, Craig also had the opportunity to potentially wield Thor’s hammer.
Though it remains uncertain why the British actor declined the role, he humorously remarked that taking on both Thor and Bond might lead to an overwhelming “power trip.” It’s unclear how aware Craig was of the future plans for Thor within the Marvel Cinematic Universe or if those influenced his choice. It’s probable that committing to two significant franchise roles could limit his flexibility to pursue different projects.
2 Emily Blunt
Black Widow in Iron Man 2
- Notable Roles: Evelyn Abbott (A Quiet Place), Rita (Edge of Tomorrow), Emily (The Devil Wears Prada)
Emily Blunt frequently emerges in conversations about who might portray various Marvel heroines. Although specific details regarding her consideration for certain roles are murky, she has confirmed turning down at least two parts. The first was Black Widow, a character that became integral to the Marvel Cinematic Universe starting with Iron Man 2, partly due to a pre-existing contract with Fox, which directed her focus towards Gulliver’s Travels (2010), a project she was not enthusiastic about. Scarlett Johansson ultimately took on the role of Black Widow.
Furthermore, Blunt allegedly opted not to audition for Peggy Carter in Captain America: The First Avenger (2011), partly because her partner, John Krasinski, was rumored for the lead role of Captain America. This has led to speculation about her choice being influenced by this connection, although more broadly it seems scheduling conflicts were the primary reason behind her decision.
1 Ayo Edibiri
Mel in Thunderbolts
- Notable Roles: Sydney Adamu (The Bear), Harriett Tubman (Clone High), Missy (Big Mouth), Envy (Inside Out 2)
Ayo Edibiri is a comedian and writer whose rise to fame includes her role as Sydney Adamu in The Bear. As her career expands, she has landed roles in major films such as Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem (both 2023), and Inside Out 2 (2024). Edibiri was tentatively lined up to join the MCU, slated to portray Mel, the assistant to Allegra De Fontaine (played by Julia Louis-Dreyfuss), in Thunderbolts.
However, due to the Hollywood labor strikes in 2023, the film’s shooting schedule was delayed. This conflict ultimately led to Edibiri withdrawing from the project, which now has a release target set for 2025. Given her rising star power, it becomes evident why she might choose to forgo even a significant franchise opportunity. Australian actress Geraldine Viswanathan has since been cast in Edibiri’s intended role of Mel.
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