We knew Marvel was going big in terms of casting for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 when we learned that Matthew McConaughey turned down a key part, but now the studio has their eye on another veteran actor with swagger to spare. Per The Wrap, Kurt Russell is wanted for a major role in the film, one that I’m wary to outright say here because it may in fact be a spoiler.
If you want to know the character Russell is being eyed to play, scroll over the text below.
Russell is being sought to play Star-Lord’s father, though the report doesn’t reveal the character’s name.
Suffice it to say, Russell would be kind of perfect for that particular role. However, the report cautions that Marvel hasn’t officially offered Russell the part, not have any meetings taken place, but they’re expected to shortly. The actor is coming off a stellar performance in Quentin Tarantino’s talky Western The Hateful Eight, as well as another Western role in the bloody Bone Tomahawk. The guy appears to be having fun with films like Furious 7, but it’s clear he’s also interested in working with talented filmmakers. That would make him a solid fit for James Gunn's Guardians sequel.
Marvel has certainly gotten bullish in terms of casting, not only with regards to Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 but with all their upcoming films. Doctor Strange alone has Benedict Cumberbatch, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Tilda Swinton, and Rachel McAdams, and we recently learned that Oscar-winner Cate Blanchett is in talks to join Thor: Ragnarok. Comic book movies are no longer “low art”—some of our best performers are lining up to take on outlandish roles in these inter-connected universes, and someone like Russell would be a fantastic addition to the Marvel ensemble.
Hopefully we hear more about this potential casting soon. Again, no official negotiations have taken place, but it sounds like Marvel has found their man. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 starts production early next year in anticipation of a May 5, 2017 release date.
