Despite widespread support from the community, Disney is unlikely to rehire director James Gunn for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. The news comes following a letter from the movie’s main cast, which voiced support for the director.
In the letter, the cast says they were shocked by Gunn’s firing, adding that they wished to see Disney reconsider its decision.
“We cannot let this moment pass without expressing our love, support, and gratitude for James,” the letter reads, which was signed by Chris Pratt, Bradley Cooper, Zoe Saldana, and others in the Guardians cast. “We are not here to defend his jokes of many years ago but rather to share our experience having spent many years together on set making Guardians of the Galaxy 1 and 2.”
Late last month, Gunn was fired by Disney after a series of offensive Tweets made by the director surfaced. Gunn owned up to the Tweets and apologized for what he said, but by that time Disney had already severed business ties with him.
“The character he has shown in the wake of his firing is consistent with the man he was every day on set, and his apology, now and from years ago when first addressing these remarks, we believe is from the heart, a heart we all know, trust, and love,” the letter reads.
Although Disney has yet to officially comment on the letter released by the cast, sources claim it hasn’t gained much internal support. That means the decision made by Disney won’t be changed.
As for who will replace Gunn, we have a suggestion. However, Variety claims Disney might look outside of its usual stable of directors for someone new, though it’s unclear who is on the studio’s shortlist.
