US EditionOriginal 'Iron Man' Star Now Blacklisted, Reveals Firing and Recasting Decision for MCU
Terrence Howard says pay cut demands, producer Joel Silver confrontation, and influence from Robert and Susan Downey led to his replacement as Rhodey in Iron Man sequel.
- Terrence Howard says he originated James 'Rhodey' Rhodes in 2008's Iron Man but lost the role after refusing a drastic pay cut, recalling, 'Eight months later, I lose Iron Man.'
- During the 2007 Venice Film Festival, Howard recalled Joel Silver told him his name wouldn't be above the titles, prompting Howard's threat 'And if you ever talk to me in that way again, I'm going to knock your teeth out of your mouth.'
- A close peer's warning, Howard recalled, included Denzel Washington telling him, 'Look at your hands, your fists are all balled up', reflecting producers' view of his aggression and need to be a man.
- Speaking about the aftermath, Howard said he was surprised to be replaced and accused Downey Jr. of taking money meant for him, tied to Susan Downey's producer role.
- Looking at industry fallout, Entertainment Weekly reported Jon Favreau wanted to cut Howard's role and Marvel offered a reduced pay; Howard says it highlights billing, pay, and career impacts.
21 Articles
21 Articles
Terrence Howard Says Confrontation With Joel Silver May Have Cost Him 'Iron Man 2' Role
Terrence Howard was the first actor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe to see his character recast. In a recent PBD Podcast interview, the Oscar-nominee recalled a 2007 confrontation with producer Joel Silver, who partnered with Susan Downey, wife of Iron Man star Robert Downey Jr. He now believes the incident played a role in Don Cheadle replacing him as James “Rhodey” Rhodes. The Confrontation Shortly after Howard was nominated for an Academy Aw…
Original 'Iron Man' Star Now Blacklisted, Reveals Firing and Recasting Decision for MCU
The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) may be propelling ahead towards the climax of its sixth era, but old disputes are still front and center. Credit: Marvel Studios Jon Favreau’s 2008 film Iron Man didn’t just introduce audiences to a new big-screen superhero—it effectively launched the Marvel Cinematic Universe as we know it today. The movie follows billionaire weapons manufacturer Tony Stark, played by Robert Downey Jr., who is captured by ter…
The Independent
The Independent (US)Terrence Howard reveals reason he believes he was fired from Iron Man
Oscar-nominated actor was replaced by Don Cheadle for the second Iron Man film
Terrence Howard Believes Confrontation With Producer Cost Him 'Iron Man'
Terrence Howard is reflecting on a moment he believes may have cost him a role in one of Hollywood’s biggest franchises. During a recent appearance on the PBD Podcast, the actor spoke about a heated exchange with producer Joel Silver while promoting the 2007 film The Brave One. Howard said the tension began after he questioned why his name did not appear beside Jodie Foster’s on the movie poster. According to Howard, Silver reminded him that Fos…
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