Marvel Studios has launched many actors into stardom, given second chances to others, and set up promising futures for several in the industry. Robert Downey Jr. had one of Hollywood’s greatest comebacks when he played Iron Man and became the heart of the MCU. Now, he is ready to be the supervillain, Doctor Doom.
Likewise, actors such as Chris Hemsworth and Simu Liu became A-listers after playing MCU superheroes. And then there are established stars with multiple blockbusters who still aspire to join the Marvel Universe.
1. Jessica Chastain
Jessica Chastain reportedly passed on a role in ‘Doctor Strange.’ She later stated that she would be interested in joining the MCU, but only for a more substantial character. Bringing in an actor of her caliber could help strengthen Marvel’s lineup during a transitional phase.
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2. Matthew McConaughey
Rumors have long suggested that Matthew McConaughey could join the MCU. He has previously expressed interest in playing the Hulk and even turned down a role in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2‘ due to scheduling conflicts with ‘The Dark Tower.’
3. Emily Blunt
Emily Blunt is widely known for films like ‘The Devil Wears Prada,’ ‘A Quiet Place,’ and ‘Oppenheimer.’ She was Marvel’s first choice for Black Widow, but had to pass due to a scheduling conflict with ‘Gulliver’s Travels‘ (2010). Fans have since continued to campaign for her MCU debut.
4. Keanu Reeves
It remains surprising that Keanu Reeves has not yet been cast in the MCU. A proven box office draw, Reeves has already established himself as an action icon. Speaking about joining Marvel, the ‘Matrix‘ star told Esquire: “It would be an honor. There are some really amazing directors and visionaries, and they’re doing something no one’s ever really done. It’s special in terms of scale, ambition, and production. So it’d be cool to be a part of that.”
5. Simon Pegg
Before casting Paul Rudd, Marvel reportedly considered Simon Pegg for the role of Ant-Man. Now, it’s hard to imagine anyone playing the character better than Rudd. Pegg has also expressed interest in playing Captain Britain. However, he would face stiff competition from Henry Cavill, who many fans see as a stronger fit for the role.
6. Lana Condor
Known for her role in ‘To All the Boys,’ Lana Condor appeared as Jubilee in ‘X-Men: Apocalypse,’ although the character had limited screen time. Condor has since publicly expressed her desire to return as Jubilee, especially now that the X-Men are back under Marvel Studios and will be introduced into the MCU very soon.
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7. Timothée Chalamet
Timothée Chalamet auditioned for Spider-Man before the role went to Tom Holland. With major projects like ‘Dune‘ boosting his profile, this could be the perfect time for Marvel to bring him into the fold.
8. Janelle Monáe
Janelle Monáe has publicly expressed her desire to join the MCU and even called playing Storm a “dream” role. With Marvel actively moving toward introducing the X-Men, multiple actors are reportedly circling the character. While nothing is confirmed, Monáe remains a popular fan choice for the iconic weather-controlling mutant. That’s if Halle Berry doesn’t return.
9. John Hamm
Jon Hamm has expressed his desire to join the MCU, particularly in ‘X-Men‘ or ‘Fantastic Four‘ projects. He was previously considered for Mister Sinister in a scrapped sequel to ‘The New Mutants‘ before Disney acquired 20th Century Fox.
10. Adam Sandler
Before Bradley Cooper was cast, Adam Sandler reportedly auditioned for Rocket and Groot. While Cooper ultimately defined Rocket’s voice, Sandler remains an interesting potential addition if Marvel finds the right role for him.
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