The Marvel Cinematic Universe has expanded an incredible amount over the past decade-plus. With two dozen features, and the introduction of new TV series later this year, there are more opportunities than ever before for an actor to become a Marvel Studios superhero. And for Jessica Chastain, she’s not willing to jump into the MCU unless it’s for the right role.
Speaking on the Junkfood Cinema podcast (via the Independent), “Doctor Strange” writer C. Robert Cargill, explained that Jessica Chastain was at the top of the list to land a primary role in 2017’s “Doctor Strange.” And as much as the actress liked the role and the film, she has one condition that is required for her to make the leap into the world of the Avengers.
“She’s like, ‘Hey, look, this project sounds awesome, and I would love to do it. But I’m only going to get one shot at being in a Marvel film and becoming a Marvel character; and I trained in ballet, and I really want to wear a cape,’” the writer explained.
He added that her response was the “coolest rejection ever,” and said, “She wanted to be in a Marvel movie, but she wanted to be the superhero, not the badass doctor Night Nurse.”
Of course, the role would eventually go to Rachel McAdams, who has, thus far, only appeared in the “Doctor Strange” solo film. However, with a sequel around the corner, there’s still the opportunity for McAdams to appear again.
As for Chastain, she did appear as the villain in “X-Men: Dark Phoenix,” but has yet to appear in a Marvel Studios film. But with the studio producing more content than ever before, with the addition of Disney+ streaming, there are plenty of chances for the actress to don a cape. Of course, she could also follow in the footsteps of Cate Blanchett, Jake Gyllenhaal, Kurt Russell, and others who have decided to have all the fun and play a colorful villain, which would still give her the costume she wants.
For now, the MCU is Chastain-less. And that is an issue that we hope is rectified soon enough.