The Marvel Studios publicity train is back on the rails, with “Avengers: Endgame” scheduled to arrive in theaters in just over three weeks. And kicking off the world tour, co-director Joe Russo was recently in India talking about the film. While he was speaking to folks at an event (via Pinkvilla), the filmmaker dropped some hints about a future LGBTQ character arriving in the MCU, as well as working with Stan Lee one last time.
With the most recent “phase” of Marvel Cinematic Universe films, the studio has crossed some diversity milestones that have previously earned Marvel Studios a bit of backlash. There was last year’s “Black Panther,” which featured the first predominantly Black cast in an MCU film (led by Chadwick Boseman). Then earlier this year, Brie Larson became the first female to lead a solo Marvel Studios film of her own, with “Captain Marvel.” Now, it appears the next milestone will be with an openly gay lead character.
When asked if there was an LGBTQ character coming to the MCU, Russo said, “One hundred percent and you will see one very soon.”
Many believe that this character will be the lead of the upcoming film “The Eternals,” which is being helmed by Chloé Zhao and should go into production shortly. Rumors have been swirling that Marvel Studios is not only going to feature an openly gay male lead character in the film, but also that the studio was looking for an openly gay actor to take on the role. We’ll have to see what happens after ‘Endgame,’ when it’s largely expected that Marvel Studios will fully announce the next slate of films.
One thing that Russo was able to reveal is about Stan Lee’s appearance in the upcoming ‘Avengers’ sequel. Since Lee passed away late last year, many have wondered when the famous Stan Lee Cameo would come to an end.
“I wouldn’t be standing here without him,” the director said.
He added, “I believe his final cameo is in ‘Endgame.’ Don’t remember if he was well enough to do the [‘Spider-Man: Far From Home’] cameo or not.
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Russo said that working with Stan Lee was a “childhood dream come true.”
So, not only do you have to look forward to the end of an era with many of the heroes in ‘Endgame’ likely hanging up their spandex, but it’s going to be the final Stan Lee appearance in a Marvel film, as well. Bring those tissues, True Believer.
“Avengers: Endgame” hits theaters April 26.
#JoeRusso shares his experience of working with Stan Lee at Marvel Anthem launch.#Marvel #MarvelIndia #AvengersEndgame @Marvel_India pic.twitter.com/ZnWuLlxtN2
— Pinkvilla (@pinkvilla) April 1, 2019
