Probably not a surprise to most, but in a Q&A that James Gunn did on Facebook today, the writer-director made it clear that Lee Pace's Ronan the Accuser character will not be returning … at least, not for Guardians of the Galaxy 2.

Though Pace has expressed before that he would "love" to reprise the role, Ronan felt (like so many Marvel villains) like a one-and-done.  Gunn confirmed this in part by answering one question of Ronan's return with "Who knows. But not in 2, no."  Later, when asked again (with an added "pretty please"), Gunn replied "perhaps someday."  What is dead may never die. 

Pace, who recently appeared in The Hobbit: Battle of Five Armies (as well as on the small screen in The Mindy Project), has plenty of other projects on his slate.  His maverick-computer-building AMC series Halt and Catch Fire (which I hear got a lot better, though I gave up after a few episodes) returns for its second season this year.  He's also scheduled to appear in several films, including a starring role in the Lance Armstrong biopic Icon.

So no more Ronan … for now.  But Infinity Stones being Infinity Stones, it seems that Gunn is leaving the door open to possible later appearances.  If so, it would be a great step in creating more complex villains for the Marvel universe.  Pace seemed more than ready to go there with Ronan, though the role never quite felt strong enough for what he was willing to give it.

For those who loved Guardians of the Galaxy and also love James Gunn, definitely check out the Facebook Q&A.  There are ton of tidbits in there for hardcore fans to enjoy.

Guardians of the Galaxy 2 will premiere May 5, 2017.