We waited and waited and waited. But now, we finally have a full statement from the cast of “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3” regarding the James Gunn firing. We previously had heard from outspoken members of the superhero films like Michael Rooker and Dave Bautista, but today’s statement has been signed by every member of the cast and is the first definitive statement of support from many of the Guardians.
In a series of posts on social media from the stars who signed the statement, the cast of the upcoming blockbuster sequel voiced their support for James Gunn and their fear that he’s far from the last person who could be targeted by the weaponized “mob mentality.”
A portion of the statement reads:
“We fully support James Gunn. We were all shocked by his abrupt firing last week and have intentionally waited these ten days to respond in order to think, pray, listen, and discuss. In that time, we’ve been encouraged by the outpouring of support from fans and members of the media who wish to see James reinstated as director of ‘Volume 3’ as well as discouraged by those so easily duped into believing the many outlandish conspiracy theories surrounding him.”
The statement goes on to explain that working with Gunn has been nothing but a pleasure for the members of the cast and they’re all saddened by the series of events that led to his dismissal. And obviously, the cast doesn’t endorse his “jokes” that were the source of all the controversy, but they accept the series of apologies he’s made for them over the years.
“Each of us looks forward to working with our friend James again in the future. His story isn’t over — not by a long shot,” the statement continues.
However, those hoping that the cast would walk out of the production or demand for Gunn’s reinstatement are sure to be disappointed by the statement. While they all have given a ringing endorsement and undying support for their filmmaker, the cast doesn’t make any demands or ultimatums. So, it appears that most, if not all, of them would return to the film if/when Disney hires a replacement.
We’ll have to see if the combined power of Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Bradley Cooper, Vin Diesel, and the rest of the cast is enough to convince Disney to backtrack on their hasty decision. Pratt, who’s Instagram post is below, says, “I’d personally love to see him reinstated as director of ‘Volume 3.’”
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bl3OVfeF8Dc/