Summary
TheMarvel Cinematic Universeis constantly expanding, and as such, it’s not surprising that some actors have parted ways or been left behind in favor of a different performer. There have been plenty of Marvel movies over the years when recognizable characters have been replaced with different faces in sequels and spin-offs.
Whether it’s theold Fox universeor the more contemporary Marvel Cinematic Universe, many Marvel movies have tried to continue using a character without drawing attention to a brand-new look, and here are a few notable standouts.
5Red Skull
Hugo Weaving To Ross Marquand
The Nazi commander, Red Skull, is a thorn in Captain America’s side and serves as the First Avenger’s first major villainin World War 2. He was initially portrayed by Hugo Weaving, best known for his performance as Agent Smith inThe Matrix Trilogy. Weaving’s performance of the character gives him an appropriately maniacal edge, especially in the scene where he reveals his own skull, after tearing off the mask of a human face he had worn before.
It’s no surprise that Hugo Weaving didn’t return for future superhero movie installments, as he has never really had positive comments regarding big blockbusters. Consequently, Red Skull was portrayed by Ross Marquand in both films. Marquand might be seen on-screen as Red Skull doing a great Hugo Weaving impression, but he’s also been heard in other performances from Marvel media, like as Charles Xavier inX-Men ‘97.
4Bruce Banner
Mark Ruffalo Replaces Edward Norton
Mark Ruffalo was an early choice for the role of Bruce Banner during the production of the first, and to date, the only Hulk film set in theMarvel Cinematic Universe. However, he would not play the character untilThe Avengersin 2012. Instead, the role was originated by Edward Norton, an actor known for previously playing characters who, like Banner, had twisted alter egos.
Banner makes a meta-joke regarding the recastinShe-Hulk: Attorney At Law.When mentioning a previous fight with Emil Blonsky aka Abomination, he claims “That fight was so many years ago, I’m a completely different person now — literally.” Ruffalo has been far more committed to Hulk, appearing as the character for over 12 years now, whereas Norton likely didn’t return due to the commitment required of him and the lack of focus on Hulk-solo projects.
3James Rhodes
Terrence Howard Leaves For Don Cheadle To Claim The Mantle
Terrence Howard portrayed Lt. Colonel James “Rhodey” Rhodes inIron Man, the first-everMarvel Cinematic Universefilm. However, Howard would not get the chance to don the War Machine armor. That honor instead went to Don Cheadle, who played the character in the variousIron ManandAvengerssequels, among others.
Terrence Howard elected not to return as Rhodey due to payment disputes, which is a common theme among actors in the superhero movie genre. As such, Rhodey’s development was left to the responsibility of Don Cheadle, who has played the role of Tony Stark’s closest friend for over 14 years,with continuing developments.
2Sabertooth
Tyler Mane Is Replaced By Liev Schreiber (Then Tyler Mane Replaces Liev Schreiber)
Victor Creed, better known as Sabertooth, is characterized in most continuities as an archenemy to Wolverine. He appears on film as an antagonist in 2000’sX-Men, as a member of Magneto’s Brotherhood of Mutants, played by wrestler-turned-actor, Tyler Mane. The prequel,X-Men Origins: Wolverine, retroactivelyestablishes him as Wolverine’s half-brother. Here, he is instead portrayed by Liev Schreiber, a more recognizable face for the role.
Mane claimed the reason for the recast was due to Schreiber looking more similar to Hugh Jackman.X-Men Origins: Wolverinewasn’t the first time the pair acted as relatives, with Jackman playing Schreiber’s ancestor in the romantic comedy,Kate and Leopold(2001). Funnily enough, Schreiber was then recast by Mane for 2024’sDeadpool & Wolverine,showcasing a return to the original.
1Thanos
Josh Brolin Takes Over From Damion Poitier
Thanos was theoverarching big badof the MCU’s Infinity Saga. He made himself known in multiple films prior toInfinity War.However, it’s easy to forget it was not the acclaimed Josh Brolin who originated the character in theMarvel Cinematic Universe. The first Thanos performer was actor and stuntman, Damion Poitier. At the end ofAvengers, it is Poitier who debuts as the Mad Titan.
Fascinatingly, while Brolin’s portrayal of Thanos makes heavy use of special effects and motion capture technology, Poitier’s take on the character has a much more practical appearance. Poitier wore an actual costume and heavily applied purple makeup to perform as the character for the brief post-credits scene.
