Is Jason Statham Looking to Join the MCU: Villain or Hero?
Marvel Studios has a way of landing some top-notch actors. Whether the A-listers are attracted to the idea of playing a superhero, excited by the unimaginable paycheck, or both, remains anyone’s guess. However, in the end, Kevin Feige often gets his man (or woman). From Cate Blanchett’s Hela to Jake Gyllenhaal’s Mysterio, Mark Ruffalo’s Bruce Banner, and RDJ’s Iron Man, the MCU has been filled to the brim with actors fans know and love. Yet, one action hero, who would fit perfectly in the MCU landscape, has yet to make his superhero or supervillain appearance — Jason Statham.
While Jason Statham is not part of the MCU today, that may not be his story forever. Based on a phone conversation a while back and an “almost” situation, the actor is likely still on the studio’s radar. Yet, would Statham want to step into a skintight suit to save the day or wreak havoc? Let’s dive into what we know so far about Statham’s and Marvel Studio’s minor, yet existent, relationship.
Jason Statham’s connection to the Marvel world
As We Got This Covered (WGTC) notes, a while back, Jason Statham was one of the actors heavily considered for the villain Bullseye in Daredevil. However, Marvel President Kevin Feige has also noted that the actor has been eyed for one of their films as well.
When discussing his conversation with Jason Statham, the Marvel President would not reveal what movie they wanted the actor to star in (maybe because they’re hoping he will play in a narratively connected role at some point down the line). However, Feige revealed that Statham rejected the offer due to scheduling conflicts. Feige remembers the following from his interactions with Hobbs and Shaw star Statham:
I was in another meeting a few days later, and my cellphone rang. I didn’t recognise the number, but I answered it. And it was Jason Statham. He was saying, ‘Sorry it didn’t work out, maybe next time’. He couldn’t have been nicer!
WGTC
Statham noted “maybe next time,” implying that while scheduling issues presented an issue this time around, if an opportunity rolls around once more, he may be implored to accept the offer. However, was Statham just being polite? Is Statham interested in superhero movies, and would he be interested in hopping on board, or is he one of those actors who’s not really into the genre?
Jason Statham on superhero movies
While seeing Statham take to the screen in an MCU installment would be one of the most glorious moments in modern cinema, such a scene may remain a pipedream (if Statham’s earlier opinions concerning the landscape remain true today).
As The Hollywood Reporter notes, Jason Statham once explained that doing a Marvel film doesn’t interest him, as he doesn’t appreciate the reliance on green screen and visual effects. Statham explained:
I could take my grandma and put her in a cape, and they’ll put her on a green screen, and they’ll have stunt doubles come in and do all the action,” Statham replied. “Anybody can do it.
The Hollywood Reporter
While Statham’s words were definitely condemning, maybe after seeing Downey’s performance in Endgame, he has had a change of heart. Marvel movies aren’t just about the action; they’re about the characters too. And, let’s be honest, if Statham joined, he would make one hell of a villain.
