Talks have ended and the hope is now dead: Joaquin Phoenix won’t be joining the Marvel stable of actors to portray Doctor Strange. Despite word that Phoenix and Marvel were close to settling on a deal in late August, it appears Marvel and Phoenix are going their separate ways. Rumor has it that Phoenix wasn’t comfortable with the contractual obligations Marvel has for their actors and the very nature of effects-heavy blockbuster films. This is bad news for those, like myself, who would have thoroughly enjoyed seeing the talented actor join a list that includes Samuel L. Jackson, Robert Downey, Jr., Scarlett Johansson, Chris Evans, and more.
However, could this news simply be a smoke screen thrown up by Marvel and Phoenix? With New York Comic Con taking place next week, the news could be a way to keep the dream alive and truly surprise fans during one of Marvel’s panels in New York. With that said, if the news is legitimate, who would be a good fit for the enigmatic doctor?
[via IGN]